Peppermint Bark Cookies are soft, chewy, chocolate-packed holiday cookies topped with melted chocolate and crushed candy canes. They deliver the festive flavor of classic peppermint bark in a warm, comforting cookie—perfect for gifting, parties, and cozy December nights. These cookies are a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with the refreshing taste of peppermint, making them a favorite during the holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Bark Cookies

There are countless reasons to adore these Peppermint Bark Cookies. First, they are incredibly easy to make, fitting perfectly into any holiday baking schedule. Their delightful combination of chocolate and peppermint creates a festive flavor that appeals to both kids and adults. These cookies are versatile; you can enjoy them as a sweet treat or use them in a variety of peppermint dessert recipes for Christmas. Plus, they make for stunning gifts when packaged nicely. The best part? They’re a great way to use up leftover candy canes from the holidays!

Ingredients for Peppermint Bark Cookies

Gather these items:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chocolate chips or chunks
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)
1 cup melted chocolate (for dipping or drizzling)
1/2 cup crushed candy canes

How to Make Peppermint Bark Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 2: Beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and creamy.
Step 3: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
Step 5: Stir in chocolate chips and peppermint extract if using.
Step 6: Scoop dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 8–10 minutes.
Step 7: Let cookies cool fully before decorating.
Step 8: Melt chocolate in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Step 9: Dip or drizzle cookies with melted chocolate.
Step 10: Sprinkle crushed candy canes over chocolate before it sets.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Peppermint Bark Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Always measure your flour accurately for the best texture.
For a richer chocolate flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips.
Make sure the cookies are completely cool before adding the chocolate topping.
These cookies can be frozen for up to a month, making them great for meal prep.

Best Ways to Serve Peppermint Bark Cookies

These cookies are not only delicious on their own but can be served in a variety of ways. Pair them with a glass of milk or hot cocoa for a cozy treat. You can also present them as part of a holiday dessert platter along with mint chocolate chip cookies and peppermint chocolate cookies. For an extra festive touch, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Delicious Peppermint Bark Cookies - Festive & Irresistible - Peppermint Bark Cookies - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Peppermint Bark Cookies

To maintain the freshness of your cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for future enjoyment. For reheating, simply microwave for a few seconds to restore their soft texture, making them as delightful as when they were freshly baked.

Frequently Asked Questions About Peppermint Bark Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Peppermint Bark Cookies?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Using high-quality chocolate and ensuring your ingredients are at room temperature will result in a better cookie. Incorporating crushed candy canes adds that festive crunch that everyone loves!

Can I make Peppermint Bark Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! These cookies can be made a few days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container, and they will remain fresh. This makes them perfect for holiday parties or gifting!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Peppermint Bark Cookies?

One common mistake is overmixing the dough, which can lead to tough cookies. Be sure to mix until just combined. Additionally, keep an eye on the baking time to prevent them from becoming too dry.

Variations of Peppermint Bark Cookies You Can Try

There are many fun variations to explore! Consider making Peppermint Bark Biscotti for a crunchy twist. You could also try adding white chocolate chunks for a unique peppermint cookie combination. For a no-bake option, create no-bake peppermint cookie recipes using similar ingredients, perfect for quick holiday treats!