**Title: Enjoy the Holidays with Delicious Peppermint Bark Cookies**
## Introduction
As the holiday season approaches, you might be looking for the perfect sweet treat to share with family and friends. Look no further than these scrumptious Holiday Peppermint Bark Cookies! Greet the festive season with the mouth-watering fusion of chocolate and peppermint in every bite.
## Why Make This Recipe
If you love seasonal flavors and enjoy baking, these cookies are for you. Not only are they easy to make, but these sweet treats incorporate the classic holiday flavor of peppermint. The harmony between the rich, chocolatey sweetness and the refreshing minty coolness is truly delightful, making these cookies an irresistible delight at winter gatherings.
## How to Make Holiday Peppermint Bark Cookies
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
**Directions:**
Follow these simple steps to create your very own homemade Peppermint Bark Cookies this holiday season.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the butter mixture.
4. Fold in the semi-sweet and white chocolate chips.
5. Roll tablespoons of cookie dough into balls, then gently flatten them and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or candy canes on top of each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
## How to Serve Holiday Peppermint Bark Cookies
These cookies are best served at room temperature with a warm beverage like hot chocolate or coffee. They also make a great dessert or snack to bring to holiday parties and family get-togethers.
## How to Store Holiday Peppermint Bark Cookies
Make sure the cookies are completely cool before storing them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a week.
## Tips to Make Holiday Peppermint Bark Cookies
For more uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop when placing dough on the baking sheet. Also, make sure your butter is at room temperature before beginning for easier mixing.
## Variations
For a fun twist, you can mix in some dark chocolate chips or sprinkle the cookies with sea salt before baking for an added sweet and salty contrast.
## FAQs
**Q1: Can I use pre-made cookie dough for this recipe?**
Yes, you can. Just follow the package instructions, then add in the chocolate chips and crushed peppermint before baking.
**Q2: Can I freeze these cookies?**
Yes, these cookies freeze well. Just make sure they are completely cool before freezing.
**Q3: Can I use peppermint extract instead of crushed peppermints?**
Yes. If using peppermint extract, add around 1/2 teaspoon to your dough for a strong peppermint flavor.
Enjoy the process of making these delightful cookies and may your holiday season be filled with joy and sweetness! Happy baking!