Name: Peppermint Bark Cookie Bars Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 and ¼ cups (150g) all-purpose flour; ¼ cup + 2 Tablespoons (36g) Dutch processed cocoa powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 4 ounces (113g) semi-sweet chocolate, coarsely chopped; 2 ounces (57g) white chocolate, coarsely chopped; ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; ¾ cup (90g) powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ⅛ teaspoon peppermint extract; ⅛ teaspoon salt; 1 to 2 Tablespoons (15-30mL) heavy cream; 1 ounce (26g) white chocolate, finely chopped; 3 candy canes, crushed

Print Recipe· 4.1 from 14 reviews

If you’re craving a festive treat that combines rich chocolate, creamy white frosting, and a refreshing hint of peppermint, this Peppermint Bark Cookie Bars Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine biting into soft, chocolatey cookie bars with decadent peppermint-infused white chocolate frosting topped with crunchy crushed candy canes that sparkle with holiday cheer. These cookie bars are not only irresistible but also surprisingly simple to make, perfect for sharing with friends, gifting, or treating yourself anytime you need a little joy in dessert form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A square, light gray baking pan filled with a single thick layer of dark brown baked chocolate brownie. The surface of the brownie looks rough and textured with small uneven bumps, giving it a rich and dense appearance. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Peppermint Bark Cookie Bars Recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that work beautifully together to create a rich, flavorful, and festive dessert. Each component plays a crucial role, from the fudgy cocoa in the cookie base to the creamy peppermint white chocolate frosting that finishes it off.

All-purpose flour (1 and ¼ cups / 150g): Provides the structure for the cookie bars, giving them that perfect chewy texture.
Dutch processed cocoa (¼ cup + 2 Tablespoons / 36g): Adds deep, rich chocolate flavor and a beautiful dark color to the dough.
Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Helps the cookie base rise just enough for a soft yet sturdy texture.
Salt (¼ teaspoon in dough, plus ⅛ teaspoon in frosting): Enhances all the sweet and chocolate flavors without overpowering.
Unsalted butter (½ cup + ¼ cup / 113g + 57g): Used both in the dough and frosting for richness and moist texture.
Granulated sugar (1 cup / 200g): Sweetens the cookie base and ensures a tender crumb.
Large egg (1): Binds the dough ingredients and gives the cookie bars structure.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon in dough, plus 1 teaspoon in frosting): Adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
Semi-sweet chocolate (4 ounces / 113g, coarsely chopped): Melts into the cookie dough, creating melty pockets of chocolate in every bite.
White chocolate (2 ounces / 57g coarsely chopped + 1 ounce / 26g finely chopped): Key for the luscious frosting and added texture in the topping.
Powdered sugar (¾ cup / 90g): Sweetens and thickens the peppermint white chocolate frosting to creamy perfection.
Peppermint extract (⅛ teaspoon): Infuses the frosting with that unmistakable cool, minty essence.
Heavy cream (1 to 2 Tablespoons / 15-30mL): Adjusts the frosting’s texture for easy spreading and luscious creaminess.
Crushed candy canes (3): The star garnish that adds crunch and that unmistakable peppermint snap on top.

How to Make Peppermint Bark Cookie Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating the oven to 350ºF (177ºC). Next, line an 8-inch square baking pan with foil or parchment paper and give it a light spray with nonstick spray. This prep work ensures your cookie bars release easily and bake evenly—small steps that make cleanup and serving a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, Dutch cocoa, baking soda, and salt. This blend of dry ingredients lays the chocolatey foundation that gives the cookie base its deep flavor and tender crumb.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial because properly creamed butter and sugar help create a soft texture, making every bite irresistible.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Lower the mixer speed and add the egg and vanilla extract, beating just until combined. These ingredients enrich the dough and add lovely aromatic notes that balance the rich chocolate.

Step 5: Combine Flour Mixture and Chocolate Chunks

With the mixer on low, slowly add your dry cocoa-flour mix, blending just until everything is unified. Then fold in the coarsely chopped semi-sweet chocolate so you get wonderful melty spots of chocolate throughout the cookie base.

Step 6: Bake the Cookie Base

Press the cookie dough evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 22-24 minutes until the edges are set and the center is no longer shiny. If any edges pop up, gently press them back with a spoon while warm. Let the base cool completely before moving on to frosting.

Step 7: Prepare Peppermint White Chocolate Frosting

Melt the white chocolate gently using your microwave or stovetop double boiler method, then let it cool to room temperature for at least 20 minutes. Meanwhile, beat the softened butter until smooth, gradually add powdered sugar on low speed, and mix until it begins to combine.

Step 8: Combine Frosting Ingredients

Stir the cooled melted white chocolate until silky, then add it to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat on medium until creamy and smooth. Next, add vanilla extract, peppermint extract, salt, and slowly pour in heavy cream until you achieve your preferred frosting consistency. Finally, stir in the finely chopped white chocolate for texture and extra sweetness.

Step 9: Frost and Garnish

Spread the peppermint white chocolate frosting evenly over the cooled cookie base using an offset spatula. While the frosting is still soft, sprinkle generously with crushed candy canes for that signature festive crunch and pops of color. Slice into 16 pieces and enjoy!

How to Serve Peppermint Bark Cookie Bars Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a square brownie with two clear layers. The bottom layer is dark brown, dense, and rich, with chunks of chocolate visible inside. The top layer is thick, creamy, and white, sprinkled evenly with small red and white peppermint candy pieces. The brownie is placed on a white marbled surface with several other similar brownies blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While crushed candy canes are classic, getting creative with garnishes can elevate your presentation. Try adding a few mini peppermint candies, a drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate, or even edible silver glitter for an extra festive sparkle. These accents make the cookie bars feel like a special occasion treat.

Side Dishes

Pair these delightful peppermint bars with a warm cup of hot cocoa, peppermint mocha, or your favorite holiday coffee. They also beautifully complement a festive fruit platter or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert spread that impresses every time.

Creative Ways to Present

For gifting, wrap individual bars in cellophane tied with red and green ribbons or arrange them neatly in a decorative tin with parchment paper. You could also serve them on a holiday-themed platter, sprinkled with fresh cranberries for a pop of color, turning your kitchen creation into a festive centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Peppermint Bark Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping them covered prevents the peppermint frosting from drying out and maintains the perfect chewy texture of the cookie base.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked cookie bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect against freezer burn. Thaw the bars completely at room temperature before serving to enjoy that melt-in-your-mouth experience just like fresh.

Reheating

These cookie bars are delicious at room temperature, but if you prefer a warm treat, gently microwave a piece for 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating so you don’t melt the peppermint frosting entirely, preserving that perfect peppermint bark crunch on top.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, making sure it contains xanthan gum for structure. The texture might be slightly different but just as delicious.

What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

If peppermint extract isn’t on hand, you can use a few drops of pure peppermint oil, but use sparingly as it is very concentrated. Alternatively, crushed candy canes alone provide plenty of peppermint flavor in the frosting garnish.

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch processed?

Yes, though your cookie bars may have a slightly different chocolate flavor and color. Dutch processed cocoa is less acidic and produces a smoother, deeper flavor, but regular cocoa powder will still yield tasty results.

Is it okay to use chocolate chips instead of chopped chocolate?

Definitely! Chocolate chips work well and provide little pockets of melted chocolate throughout the bar. Chopped chocolate can give a more rustic texture, but chips are a convenient alternative.

How do I prevent the frosting from becoming too runny?

Slowly add heavy cream when mixing your frosting and stop when you reach the ideal consistency. If it’s too runny, add a bit more powdered sugar. The temperature of the melted white chocolate also affects texture, so let it cool fully before combining.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably joyful about making the Peppermint Bark Cookie Bars Recipe—whether it’s the tempting chocolate aroma filling your kitchen or the festive crunch of candy canes on top. This recipe is not only delicious and visually stunning but also captures the spirit of the holidays in every bite. Don’t wait to whip up a batch and share these sweet, minty bars because once you try them, they’ll quickly become a cherished tradition!