Name: Irresistible Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies for the Holidays
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 33 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour); 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/2 teaspoon Cream of Tartar (can be omitted); 1 cup Butter (softened, or margarine for dairy-free); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar; 1/3 cup Canola Oil (or vegetable oil); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract; 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (reduce for milder flavor); 2 large Eggs (room temperature); 1/4 cup Red Jimmies Sprinkles (for decoration); 8 ounces Dark Chocolate (or semi-sweet chocolate); 1 cup Heavy Cream (or half-and-half); 4 pieces Ghirardelli Peppermint Bark Squares (or any brand)

As I unwrapped the first peppermint bark of the season, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. The delightful contrast of creamy chocolate and cool mint always reminds me of cozy gatherings and festive cheer. That’s the inspiration behind these Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies! With their perfectly soft texture and a luscious chocolate ganache topping, these cookies are not just a treat—they’re an invitation to share sweet moments with loved ones. They’re perfect for cookie exchanges, and their charm is that they come together quickly, allowing you to impress without the stress. Plus, who could resist the combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint? So, are you ready to add a little magic to your holiday baking? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe and bring a taste of the season to life!

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

Delectable Flavor: The rich blend of chocolate and invigorating peppermint will captivate your taste buds, creating a delightful experience that screams holiday cheer.

Quick to Make: In just little time, you’ll whip up a batch of these luscious treats that are perfect for last-minute gatherings or cookie exchanges.

Visual Appeal: Topped with gleaming ganache and festive sprinkles, these cookies are not just tasty but also stunning, making them a showstopper on any dessert table.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment with different flavors! Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate or add crushed peppermint candies for an extra crunch.

Perfect for Sharing: These cookies make wonderful gifts, whether for friends, family, or coworkers, spreading smiles and joy during the festive season.

Stores Well: Keep a stash in your fridge or freezer—these cookies taste incredible even after days, letting you enjoy their flavors long after baking!

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies Ingredients

• Discover everything you need to create these festive delights!

For the Cookie Base

Flour – Structure for cookies; you can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; no substitutions needed.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for a light texture; no substitutes required.
Cream of Tartar – Stabilizes the cookie texture; can be omitted if necessary, though results may vary.
Butter – Adds richness and moisture; can replace with margarine for a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps with cookie structure; no substitution necessary.
Powdered Sugar – Contributes to achieving a soft texture; no substitutions.
Canola Oil – Keeps cookies moist and tender; use vegetable oil as an alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Deepens flavor; no substitutions.
Peppermint Extract – Infuses the cookie with peppermint flavor; reduce the quantity for a milder taste.
Eggs – Binds ingredients and aids in leavening; ensure they are at room temperature for best results.
Red Jimmies Sprinkles – A decorative touch for visual appeal; substitute with other colored sprinkles if desired.

For the Ganache

Dark Chocolate – Base for the ganache contributing a rich chocolate taste; semi-sweet chocolate can be used as a substitute.
Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess to the ganache; could replace with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Ghirardelli Peppermint Bark Squares – Topping for a festive finish; you can use any other brand of peppermint bark.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it reaches the perfect temperature while you prepare your cookie dough. Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper, which will prevent the cookies from sticking and allow for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, and cream of tartar. This dry mixture creates the structure for the Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies, so ensure there are no lumps. Once combined, set the bowl aside while you work on the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened butter along with the granulated and powdered sugars on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This process incorporates air into the dough, ensuring that your cookies are soft and chewy.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Gradually mix in the canola oil, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the fluffy butter-sugar mixture. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. The mixture should be smooth and well-combined, creating a flavorful base for your cookies.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Slowly add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser cookies. Finally, fold in the red Jimmies sprinkles, adding a festive touch that makes these Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies visually appealing.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, shape the dough into 2-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Then, gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a sugared glass to about ½ inch thick, ensuring even baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 8 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; they should be set around the edges while still soft in the center. This short baking time will keep your Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies chewy and delicious.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. After that, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential to ensure the cookies don’t become soggy and maintain their lovely texture.

Step 9: Prepare the Ganache
For the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until hot but not boiling. Remove it from the heat and pour it over the chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Allow it to sit for a minute before stirring until completely smooth and glossy.

Step 10: Assemble the Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled, spread a generous layer of the chocolate ganache over the tops of each cookie. Top with pieces of Ghirardelli peppermint bark squares for an extra festive finish. Let the ganache set before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to make these festive cookies your own with a few delightful twists that will tickle your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour in place of regular flour for a deliciously chewy cookie that everyone can enjoy.
Dairy-Free: Substitute margarine for butter and coconut cream for heavy cream in the ganache for a tasty dairy-free version.
White Chocolate Delight: Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate in the ganache for a sweeter, creamier treat that balances beautifully with the peppermint.
Extra Crunch: Top the ganache with crushed peppermint candies for an added crunch that elevates your cookies both in flavor and texture.
Nutty Twist: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the dough for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the chocolate and peppermint.
Almond Joy: Add almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique flavor kick that pairs gorgeously with the chocolate and peppermint.
Spicy Kick: For those who like a bit of heat, mix crushed red pepper flakes into the dough for a surprising spicy twist alongside the sweet.
Festive Variations: Use colored sprinkles instead of red Jimmies for seasonal versatility, especially for different holidays or themed gatherings.

These variations allow you to customize these cookies, just like you could with a warm batch of Cinnamon Sugar Soft or some delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies. Let your imagination run wild and impress your friends and family with your own unique flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can bake the cookies and freeze them without the ganache for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then prepare the ganache and spread it over the cooled cookies. This allows for the same delicious flavors and textures without the last-minute rush, bringing festive joy to your gatherings!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

Fridge: Store the cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. This keeps them fresh and maintains their delightful texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the un-ganached cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before adding ganache.

Reheating: If you want to enjoy them warm, pop the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to soften them up; they’ll taste freshly baked!

Ganache Storage: If you happen to have leftover ganache, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week; just reheat gently before use.

Expert Tips for Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for easy mixing, resulting in a smoother dough for these Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the cookies while baking, as they should be soft in the center to maintain their chewy texture; remove them promptly after 8 minutes.
Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool fully on a wire rack before adding ganache to avoid smudging and maintain the beautiful glossy finish.
Perfect Ganache Consistency: Heat heavy cream until hot, but not boiling; letting it rest with chocolate ensures a smoother ganache for spreading.
Stir Gently: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir just until combined to prevent dense cookies; overmixing can lead to a tougher texture.

What to Serve with Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

The delightful combination of chocolate and peppermint calls for some perfect pairings to complete your holiday feast.

Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of rich cocoa beautifully complements the refreshing flavors of the cookies, creating a cozy experience.
Spiced Apple Cider: The tartness of spiced apple cider contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cookies, evoking warm, festive nostalgia.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the decadent chocolate ganache.
Peppermint Tea: This soothing drink enhances the minty notes in the cookies, providing a refreshing cleanse to the palate after each bite.
Chocolate Fondue: Serve with fruit skewers or marshmallows for dipping, creating a fun, interactive dessert experience that complements the cookies’ richness.
Nutty Biscotti: These crunchy treats offer a delightful textural contrast to the soft cookies, while their nutty flavors add depth to your dessert spread.
Chocolate Mint Milkshake: A creamy shake bursting with chocolate and mint goodness makes for a fun, indulgent treat alongside cookies.
Cheesecake Bites: Rich and velvety cheesecake bites add a luxurious touch to your dessert table, balancing the cookie’s sweetness with a tangy finish.
Eggnog: This classic holiday drink brings a rich, spiced flavor that pairs perfectly with the decadent nature of the cookies.
Gingerbread Cookies: Serve alongside these festive delights for a delightful contrasting flavor and texture, creating a cheerful holiday platter.

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for these cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing ingredients, opt for high-quality dark chocolate and pure peppermint extract for the best flavor. For eggs, select large, organic eggs that are at room temperature to ensure better mixing.

How should I store my Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies?
I recommend storing the cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This helps maintain their fresh, soft texture while preventing them from drying out. Just layer parchment paper between the cookies if stacking them—it keeps the ganache from smudging!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Definitely! To freeze your Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies, first, cool them completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about an hour. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the refrigerator, and add the ganache afterward.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your cookies spread too much during baking, it could be due to warm butter or eggs. Make sure both are at room temperature before mixing, and try chilling your cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape!

Are these cookies safe for my pets?
Not at all! Remember, chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats. It’s best to keep these delightful Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies away from your furry friends. Always ensure treats like this are enjoyed by humans only!

Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, use a premium gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. You can also replace butter with margarine for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly due to these substitutions.