Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

The holiday season is the perfect time to bring a little extra cheer to your dessert table, and what better way to do so than with Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars? These sweet treats are not only simple to make but also deliver that delightful combination of buttery cookies and refreshing peppermint flavor. With a festive twist and a beautiful blend of textures, they are bound to become a favorite among your family and friends.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 24 bars
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 180
• Protein: 2 grams
• Carbohydrates: 25 grams
• Fat: 8 grams
• Fiber: 0 grams
• Sugar: 12 grams
• Sodium: 90 mg

Why Make This Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that captures the essence of the festive season. Their soft, chewy texture combined with the crunchy bites of peppermint candies and the sweetness of white chocolate makes them a perfect dessert for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. Plus, they’re easy to make, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time. Whether you’re gifting them to friends or enjoying them with a cup of hot cocoa, these bars will surely spread joy and delight.

How to Make Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 cup crushed peppermint candies
• 1 cup white chocolate chips

Directions:

### Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure your bars won’t stick.

### Step 2: Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside to be added later.

### Step 3: Creaming Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is creamy and smooth, creating a fluffy texture that will be the base of your bars.

### Step 4: Combining Wet Ingredients

Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until everything is well combined, filling your kitchen with that lovely peppermint aroma.

### Step 5: Mixing Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix to keep your bars tender.

### Step 6: Stirring in Candies and Chocolate

Fold in the crushed peppermint candies and white chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough for bursts of flavor in every bite.

### Step 7: Spreading the Dough

Spread the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top to create an even surface that will bake beautifully.

### Step 8: Baking

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. Your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!

### Step 9: Cooling

Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. This cooling step is essential for achieving clean edges and will enhance the flavor as they rest.

How to Serve Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

These bars are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them drizzled with extra melted white chocolate or topped with whipped cream for a festive touch. They pair wonderfully with coffee or hot cocoa, making them an ideal dessert for holiday gatherings or cozy winter evenings.

How to Store Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

Expert Tips for Perfect Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

• For softer bars, be careful not to overmix the dough.
• If you prefer a stronger peppermint flavor, simply increase the amount of peppermint extract slightly.
• You can substitute crushed candy canes with other kinds of crushed candies for varied flavors.
• For a fun twist, add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty combination.

Delicious Variations

• Chocolate Peppermint Bars: Mix in some cocoa powder for a chocolate cookie base instead of vanilla.
• Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Frosted Bars: Top cooled bars with a layer of peppermint frosting for a sweeter treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use this recipe for cookies instead of bars?
  Yes, you can scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, keeping an eye on them to avoid overbaking.

• What can I substitute for white chocolate chips?
  You can use dark chocolate chips or even butterscotch for a different flavor profile.

• How can I make my bars more festive?
  Sprinkle additional crushed peppermint candies on top before baking to enhance their appearance and flavor.

• Why did my cookie bars crumble when cut?
  If your bars crumble, they might have been overbaked. Make sure to bake just until the edges are golden, and let them cool completely before cutting.

• Can I double the recipe?
  Absolutely! You can double the ingredients and use a larger pan. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are a joyful way to celebrate the flavors of the holiday season. Their ease of preparation and delightful blend of peppermint and sweetness make them a must-try recipe this winter. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in a treat that’s sure to bring smiles to those around you. Enjoy baking and happy holidays!