Name: Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars: 7 Festive Treats
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup packed light brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 cup white chocolate chips; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; ¾ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes; Extra chocolate chips and peppermint pieces for garnish

Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate and the refreshing taste of peppermint. These bars are soft, chewy, and infused with crushed peppermint and melting chocolate chips, making them an irresistible holiday indulgence. Perfect for gifting or serving at festive gatherings, this recipe is a must-have in your holiday baking arsenal!

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookie

These bars are not just another dessert; they are a celebration of flavors! Here’s why you’ll adore this Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe:

Rich and chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
Filled with festive flavors of peppermint and chocolate.
Perfect for holiday peppermint chocolate chip cookies gifting.
Easy to make, even for beginners!
Beautifully presented, making them a showstopper at parties.
Can be customized with various chocolate types, such as dark or white chocolate.
Great for creating mint chocolate chip cookie variations.

This recipe falls under the Dessert category and is vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for many dietary preferences!

Ingredients for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookie

Gather these items:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup white chocolate chips
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
¾ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Extra chocolate chips and peppermint pieces for garnish

How to Make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookie Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Step 4: Press two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
Step 5: Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cookie base and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the semi-sweet and white chocolate chips on top, then distribute the crushed peppermint candies.
Step 6: Break the remaining cookie dough into small chunks and scatter them over the surface.
Step 7: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing.

Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars: 7 Festive Treats - Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookie - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookie

Keep these in mind:

These bars are ideal for holiday gifting or dessert tables.
They pair perfectly with a warm mug of hot cocoa.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
If you want a gluten-free peppermint chocolate chip cookie, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and eggs substitute.

Best Ways to Serve Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookie

These bars are delicious on their own, but you can enhance your experience:

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Pair with a glass of milk or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
Cut into festive shapes for holiday gatherings and parties.

How to Store and Reheat Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookie

To store, keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them warm directly from the oven. This recipe has a total time of 50 minutes, making it perfect for meal prep during the busy holiday season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookie

What is a peppermint chocolate chip cookie?

A peppermint chocolate chip cookie is a festive treat that combines the refreshing flavor of peppermint with chocolate chips, creating a deliciously minty dessert that’s perfect for the holidays.

Why are peppermint chocolate chip cookies popular?

Peppermint chocolate chip cookies are popular because they capture the essence of the holiday season. Their festive flavors and cheerful appearance make them a favorite for Christmas cookie exchanges and celebrations.

Can I make peppermint chocolate chip cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can make peppermint chocolate chip cookies ahead of time. Prepare the bars and store them in an airtight container. They can last for several days, making them perfect for holiday meal prep!

Variations of Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookie You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

For a richer flavor, try adding dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
Make it a vegan peppermint chocolate chip cookie by using plant-based butter and egg substitutes.
Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and texture.
Swap crushed peppermint for other candies, like crushed Oreos for a unique twist!

For more festive recipes, check out this page or this one for more ideas!