Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

These Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are the perfect combination of holiday cheer and indulgent sweetness. Soft, buttery bars infused with refreshing peppermint and topped with crunchy candy canes and creamy white chocolate chips make for a festive treat everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking for a cozy dessert, these cookie bars are sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients

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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until fully incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
5. Gently fold in the crushed candy canes and white chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Press the dough into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares or rectangles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 bars
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate over the top of the bars for an extra indulgent touch.
• Darker flavor: Replace the white chocolate chips with semi-sweet chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• Gluten-free version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.
• Different extracts: If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can swap the peppermint extract for almond or orange extract.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store these peppermint sugar cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. They will stay fresh and soft for the duration.
• Freezing: You can freeze the bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To enjoy them warm, place a bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or bake them at 300°F for 5-10 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter? Yes, margarine can be used, but it may affect the flavor and texture slightly. Butter provides a richer taste and softer texture.
2. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? While you can use whole wheat flour, the texture will be denser, and the bars may not rise as much.
3. Can I make these bars ahead of time? Yes, these bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container.
4. Do I need to crush the candy canes? Yes, crushing the candy canes gives them a nice texture and makes them easier to mix into the dough. You can crush them by hand or in a food processor.
5. Can I add more or less peppermint extract? Yes, you can adjust the amount of peppermint extract according to your taste preferences. However, peppermint is strong, so a little goes a long way.
6. Can I use milk chocolate instead of white chocolate chips? Yes, milk chocolate chips can be substituted for a different flavor, though the bars will taste less festive.
7. What can I do if I don’t have a 9×13-inch pan? If you don’t have a 9×13-inch pan, you can use an 8×8-inch pan for thicker bars, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted.
8. Can I add nuts to the bars? Yes, you can add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
9. How do I know when the bars are done baking? The edges should be lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
10. Can I decorate these bars? Absolutely! You can decorate the bars with additional crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive look.

Conclusion

Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful holiday treat that combines the best flavors of the season in a simple yet delicious way. With a short prep time and minimal ingredients, these bars are a perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday party, a cozy family gathering, or just a sweet snack. Enjoy these soft, minty bars and make them a part of your seasonal traditions.

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