Name: Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies for Holiday Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 38 min
Ingredients: 5.5 cups flour (Provides structure to the cookies; ensure it’s measured accurately for best results.); 1 tsp salt (Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.); 0.5 tsp baking soda (Helps cookies rise; always use fresh for proper leavening.); 0.5 tsp cream of tartar (Stabilizes the dough; substitute with lemon juice or vinegar if needed.); 1 cup butter, room temperature (Adds richness and moisture; it must be softened to cream well.); 1.25 cups sugar (Sweetens the cookies and creates a smooth texture.); 0.25 cups powdered sugar (Sweetens the cookies and creates a smooth texture.); 0.75 cups canola oil (Adds moisture; can be substituted with vegetable oil.); 1 tsp vanilla extract (Provides depth of flavor.); 0.5 tsp peppermint extract (Infuses the cookies with a refreshing mint flavor.); 2 large eggs, room temperature (Binds the ingredients together; let sit at room temperature for better emulsification.); 0.25 cups red jimmies sprinkles (For decoration and festive appeal.); 1 cup dark chocolate (Used for the ganache; offers a rich chocolate flavor.); 1 cup heavy cream (Creates a luxurious ganache.); 36 pieces mini Ghirardelli Peppermint Bark Squares (The final topping that adds festive flair and flavor to your cookies.)

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As the first hints of winter chill settle in, I find myself craving the cozy warmth of holiday baking. This year, I’m excited to share my Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies, a delightful twist on the classic peppermint cookie that perfectly captures the season’s spirit. With their soft and chewy texture topped with a rich chocolate ganache, these cookies are not just a treat for the taste buds; they make an unforgettable centerpiece for any holiday cookie exchange. Plus, their festive appeal makes them an ideal gift, beautifully presented in tins for friends and family. As you gather around the kitchen with loved ones, imagine the smiles these cookies will bring. Are you ready to fill your home with the tantalizing aroma of peppermint and chocolate?

Why Chocolate Peppermint Bark Cookies Delight?

Festive Flair: The stunning presentation of these cookies, topped with vibrant peppermint bark, elevates any holiday gathering.

Easy to Make: Simple instructions ensure you can whip up a batch in no time, leaving you with more moments to savor the season.

Rich Flavor: The combination of chocolate ganache and soft peppermint cookie creates a luxurious taste that’s simply irresistible.

Perfect for Gifting: Pack them in festive tins for friends and family, just like you would for Chocolate Peanut Butter treats!

Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment with flavors; swap peppermint extract for almond for a unique twist!

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies bring joy to every bite and make your holidays even sweeter.

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

5½ c. + 2 tbsp. flour – Provides structure to the cookies; ensure it’s measured accurately for best results.
1 tsp. salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
½ tsp. baking soda – Helps cookies rise; always use fresh for proper leavening.
½ tsp. cream of tartar – Stabilizes the dough; substitute with lemon juice or vinegar if needed.
1 c. (2 sticks) butter, room temperature – Adds richness and moisture; it must be softened to cream well.
1¼ c. sugar + ¼ c. powdered sugar – Sweetens the cookies and creates a smooth texture.
¾ c. canola oil – Adds moisture; can be substituted with vegetable oil.
1 tsp. vanilla extract – Provides depth of flavor.
½ tsp. peppermint extract – Infuses the cookies with a refreshing mint flavor.
2 eggs, room temperature – Binds the ingredients together; let sit at room temperature for better emulsification.
¼ c. red jimmies sprinkles – For decoration and festive appeal.

For the Ganache

1 c. dark chocolate – Used for the ganache; offers a rich chocolate flavor—use high-quality chocolate for best results.
1 c. heavy cream – Creates a luxurious ganache.

For the Topping

36 mini Ghirardelli Peppermint Bark Squares – The final topping that adds festive flair and flavor to your Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies.

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your delightful journey by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly baked Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies that are soft and chewy. While the oven heats, gather your baking sheets and line them with parchment paper for easy clean-up.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 5½ cups plus 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar. This combination of dry ingredients is crucial for creating the ideal texture. Set the bowl aside as you move on to the next step.

Step 3: Cream the Butters and Sugars
Using a stand mixer or a large bowl and hand mixer, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1¼ cups of sugar plus ¼ cup of powdered sugar for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, gradually add in ¾ cup of canola oil, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract, mixing until well combined. Follow this by adding the eggs one at a time, blending until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
With the wet ingredients ready, gradually mix in the dry ingredients prepared earlier until just combined. Take care not to overmix. Once combined, gently fold in ¼ cup of festive red jimmies sprinkles for that perfect holiday touch, creating a vibrant and colorful dough for your cookies.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Now it’s time to shape your cookies! Roll the dough into 2-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten each ball to about ½ inch thickness using a glass sprinkled with sugar to prevent sticking. This step ensures even baking and creates that classic cookie shape.

Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake your shaped Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies in the preheated oven for 8 minutes, just until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, providing the perfect foundation for the ganache.

Step 7: Make the Ganache
While the cookies are cooling, prepare the ganache. In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of heavy cream over medium heat until it’s hot but not boiling. Remove it from the heat and pour it over 1 cup of finely chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for a minute before stirring until smooth and glossy, creating the luxurious topping for your cookies.

Step 8: Assemble and Decorate
Once your cookies have cooled completely, spread a generous layer of chocolate ganache on each cookie. Top each with a mini Ghirardelli Peppermint Bark Square for that extra touch of minty goodness. Allow the ganache to set before serving or packaging them for gifts, making your Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies a festive delight for any occasion.

Proper Storage for Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and maintains their soft, chewy texture.

Fridge: If you prefer your cookies chilled, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezer: Freeze the cookies without ganache for up to 3 months. Once ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and frost with ganache for a delicious treat.

Reheating: If desired, warm the cookies briefly in the microwave (around 10-15 seconds) to restore their softness before indulging in these Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies!

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday season! You can mix the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just roll the dough into balls and flatten them before chilling—this helps maintain their shape and prevents browning. You can also prepare the ganache up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, reheat the ganache slightly in the microwave until spreadable, apply it to the cooled cookies, and top with peppermint bark squares. This way, you’ll have festive treats ready in no time, leaving you free to savor the moments that matter!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature. This helps create a uniform batter and results in fluffy cookies.

Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on your cookies while baking. They should be soft and barely set when removed from the oven to achieve that perfect chewy texture.

Cool Before Ganache: Allow your cookies to cool completely before adding the chocolate ganache. This prevents melting and helps achieve a smooth finish.

Quality Chocolate Matters: Use high-quality dark chocolate for the ganache. It significantly enhances the flavor profile of your Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies.

Experiment with Sprinkles: Feel free to swap out the red jimmies for other festive sprinkles or chocolate chips—get creative and make these cookies your own!

What to Serve with Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies?

These delicious cookies are the perfect centerpiece for a festive spread, delighting your loved ones with sweet and minty flavors.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: A warm mug of rich hot chocolate complements the minty sweetness beautifully, creating a cozy pairing for chilly nights.
Peppermint Tea: The herbal notes enhance the cookies’ mint flavor, providing a soothing drink option that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Served alongside, the creamy vanilla ice cream balances the richness of the ganache, offering a delightful contrast in textures.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds a burst of freshness and color to your dessert table, lightening up the indulgent treats.
Bourbon Eggnog: This classic holiday drink adds a touch of sophistication and warmth, making your cookie experience even more festive.
Chocolate Mint Parfait: Layered with chocolate pudding and minty whipped cream, this sweet treat echoes the flavors of the cookies while adding a fun twist.
Candy Cane Cheesecake: If you’re feeling adventurous, this festive dessert shares the peppermint theme and makes for a deliciously decadent choice.
Spiced Mulled Wine: This warming drink filled with festive spices pairs wonderfully with cookies, offering a sophisticated complement to the sweetness.

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor these cookies to your taste—let’s make them uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate for a delicious alternative.
Nutty Twist: Substitute the peppermint extract with almond extract for a unique flavor profile that’s uniquely festive.
White Chocolate: Swap the dark chocolate ganache for white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier experience.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
Add Some Heat: Introduce a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cookie dough for a surprising little kick amidst the sweetness.
Festive Dippers: Dunk half the cookies in the ganache and then in crushed candy canes for added texture and decoration.
Citrus Zing: Mix in some orange zest to the dough for a fresh burst of flavor that complements the mint beautifully.
Rich Chocolate Chips: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips into the dough for an extra chocolatey cookie experience, reminiscent of your favorite Chocolate Chip Cookie treats.

Each variation offers a delightful twist that can elevate your baking experience while keeping the essence of these Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies alive! Enjoy exploring these options as you fill your home with warmth and festive cheer.

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best flour for my cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing flour for your Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies, I recommend using all-purpose flour, which provides the right balance of structure and softness. Make sure it’s fresh; look for any visual signs like clumping or dark spots, which could indicate it’s past its prime.

Can I store these cookies, and how long do they last?
Very simply! Store your baked Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them colder, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying for the best flavor.

What’s the best way to freeze Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies?
Of course! To freeze your cookies, first, let them cool completely. Then, place the cookies without ganache in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. After about 1-2 hours, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag, sealing it tightly. They can be frozen for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature and prepare the ganache.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much during baking?
No worries, it happens! If you find your cookies spread too much, it could be due to warm dough or too much fat. To troubleshoot, chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before shaping and baking. This helps solidify the fats, keeping the cookies from spreading excessively in the oven.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you absolutely can! To make Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the blend contains xanthan gum, which helps mimic the texture of regular flour.

Are these cookies safe for pets or people with allergies?
It’s very important to be cautious! Chocolate is toxic to dogs, so keep these cookies out of their reach. For people with allergies, they contain common allergens such as wheat, eggs, and dairy. Adjust the ingredients as needed, such as using egg replacer for a vegan option or dairy-free chocolate to make them safe for those with related allergies.