Peppermint Bark Cookie Recipe: A Festive Delight with Crispy Crunch and Minty Freshness
Guide or Summary：IntroductionIngredientsInstructionsIntroductionThe holiday season is synonymous with sweet treats that tantalize the senses and bring a tou……
Guide or Summary：
Introduction
The holiday season is synonymous with sweet treats that tantalize the senses and bring a touch of festivity to any gathering. Among these delightful confections, peppermint bark cookies stand out with their unique blend of crispy crunch and minty freshness. This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, perfect for holiday parties or as a thoughtful gift for loved ones.
Ingredients
To craft these irresistible peppermint bark cookies, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup crushed candy canes (about 8-10 candy canes)
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
1. **Preparation**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it's well-greased to prevent sticking.
2. **Dry Ingredients**: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. **Creaming Butter**: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
4. **Incorporating Flavors**: Stir in the pure vanilla extract and peppermint extract until well combined. Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the crushed candy canes, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the cookie's tender texture.
5. **Forming Cookies**: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a spoon to create a uniform thickness.
6. **Baking**: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even baking. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. **Melting Chocolate**: While the cookies are cooling, melt the white and dark chocolate chips in separate bowls according to the package instructions. If using a double boiler, ensure the chocolate is melted slowly and stir frequently to avoid burning.
8. **Decorating Cookies**: Once the cookies are completely cool, dip them into the melted chocolate, using a fork to coat each cookie evenly. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off. Immediately sprinkle the coated cookies with additional crushed candy canes for added texture and flavor.
9. **Refrigeration**: Place the decorated cookies on a wire rack to set. The chocolate should harden within 15-20 minutes, depending on the room temperature. Store any remaining cookies in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain their crispness.
These peppermint bark cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday spread, offering a perfect balance of sweet, crunchy, and minty flavors. With their festive appearance and delectable taste, they're sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or looking for a thoughtful gift, these cookies are a must-have for any peppermint bark enthusiast. Enjoy baking and spreading the festive cheer!