Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peppermint in a soft, sugary cookie. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies bring festive joy to any occasion. Whether you’re baking for friends and family or just indulging yourself, this unique recipe will surely impress with its deliciously creamy ganache topping and vibrant sprinkles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The pairing of chocolate and peppermint creates a refreshing taste that stands out during the holiday season.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for cookie exchanges or festive gatherings, these treats are sure to be a hit among friends and family.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different types of sprinkles or even crushed candy canes for added texture.
• Deliciously Decadent: The chocolate ganache adds an irresistible richness that balances the sweetness of the sugar cookie.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools is essential for making your Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies. These tools will help ensure your baking process goes smoothly, allowing you to focus on enjoying the delicious results!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients effectively without spills.
• Baking sheets: Provides a flat surface to bake cookies evenly without sticking.
• Parchment paper: Helps prevent cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easy.

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Ingredients

For the Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough

• 5½ c. + 2 tbsp. flour
• 1 tsp. salt
• ½ tsp. baking soda
• ½ tsp. cream of tarter
• 1 c. (2 sticks) butter, room temperature
• 1¼ c. sugar (+ ¼ c.)
• ¾ c. powdered sugar
• ¾ c. canola oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• ½ tsp. peppermint extract
• 2 eggs (room temperature)

For the Topping

• ¼ c. red jimmies sprinkles
• 1 c. dark chocolate
• 1 c. heavy cream
• 36 mini Ghirardelli Peppermint Bark Squares

How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Salt
3. Baking soda
4. Cream of tartar

Set aside this dry mixture.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, combine:
1. Butter (room temperature)
2. Sugar (both granulated and powdered)

Beat until light and fluffy, then mix in canola oil, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract.

Step 5: Add Eggs

Add eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, beating well after each addition until fully combined.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Sheets

Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 9: Cool Cookies

Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 10: Prepare Ganache

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine dark chocolate and heavy cream:
1. Stir constantly until smooth.
2. Remove from heat once melted.

Step 11: Assemble Cookies

Once cookies are cooled:
1. Dip or drizzle ganache over each cookie.
2. Top with mini Ghirardelli Peppermint Bark Squares before ganache sets.
3. Finish with red jimmies sprinkles on top.

Now you’ve created delicious Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies that are perfect for any holiday celebration! Enjoy sharing these delightful treats with friends and family!

How to Serve Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for sharing and impressing guests during the holiday season. Here are some creative ways to serve your Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies.

Festive Cookie Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter alongside other holiday treats like gingerbread men and sugar cookies. This creates an eye-catching dessert display.

Hot Cocoa Pairing

• Serve these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa. The rich chocolate flavor complements the cookies perfectly, making it a cozy treat.

Gift Packaging

• Package the cookies in decorative boxes or mason jars with festive ribbons. These make wonderful homemade gifts for friends and family during the holidays.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create delicious ice cream sandwiches. Choose peppermint or vanilla ice cream for an extra festive touch.

Cookie Decorating Station

• Set up a cookie decorating station with icing, sprinkles, and toppings. This is a fun activity for kids and adults alike during holiday gatherings.

How to Perfect Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

For those looking to elevate their baking skills, here are some essential tips to achieve the best results with your cookies.

• Chill the Dough: After mixing, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This leads to better blending and a smoother dough.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon flour into measuring cups without packing it down. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperatures. Baking at the right temperature ensures even cooking.

• Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies from the oven when they’re just set but not browned. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add crushed candy canes or additional chocolate chips on top before baking for extra flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

Pairing your Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies with side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Peppermint Hot Cocoa: A rich drink made with cocoa powder, milk, and crushed peppermint candies gives a festive twist to your cookie enjoyment.

2. Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider adds a comforting beverage option that complements the minty flavors of your cookies.

3. Cheese Platter: Include a selection of cheeses like creamy brie or sharp cheddar for a savory contrast to the sweet cookies.

4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a light balance to the richness of the cookies.

5. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip pieces of fruit or leftover cookie bits into melted chocolate.

6. Nuts and Dried Fruits: A mix of nuts and dried fruits offers a crunchy, chewy contrast that pairs well with sweet treats like these sugar cookies.

7. Vanilla Yogurt Dip: Serve yogurt flavored with vanilla extract as a creamy dip for an added layer of flavor alongside your cookies.

8. Gingerbread Cake: A slice of moist gingerbread cake adds warmth and spice, complementing the peppermint flavor beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies, it’s easy to run into a few pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes and tips on how to avoid them.

• Inaccurate Measurements: Always measure your ingredients carefully. Using too much flour can make cookies dry and crumbly, while too little can lead to spreading.
• Ignoring Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing. Cold ingredients can create lumps in your dough.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft, chewy ones.
• Not Chilling the Dough: If your dough is too soft, chill it for at least 30 minutes. This helps maintain shape and improves texture during baking.
• Using Old Baking Powder or Soda: Check expiration dates! Fresh leavening agents ensure that your cookies rise properly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and chewy.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake cookies for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat as they may become tough.
• Stovetop: Place a pan over low heat and warm cookies for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies.

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes! You can substitute dark chocolate with milk or white chocolate according to your preference.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

What is the best way to decorate these cookies?

You can use crushed candy canes or colored sprinkles on top of the melted chocolate for extra festive flair!

Can I customize the flavor of the sugar cookies?

Absolutely! You can add different extracts like almond or orange instead of peppermint for a unique taste.

How long do these cookies last?

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about one week.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any holiday gathering or cookie exchange. With their rich chocolate flavor and refreshing peppermint twist, they’re sure to impress family and friends. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite toppings or experimenting with different types of chocolate!