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Irresistible Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars: Your Ultimate Holiday Treat

Get ready to infuse your holiday season with an explosion of festive flavor with these homemade, soft, and wonderfully thick Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars! Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender sugar cookie base, generously studded with vibrant peppermint candy bits, all crowned with a velvety, fluffy buttercream frosting, and a final sprinkle of glistening crushed peppermint. These bars are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration in every bite, promising to be the highlight of your festive gatherings and a delightful treat for peppermint enthusiasts everywhere.

These magnificent Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are an absolute joy to prepare and perfect for serving a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a grand Christmas feast, contributing to a holiday potluck, or simply looking for a simple yet spectacular seasonal dessert, this recipe is your answer. They’re a fantastic alternative to individual cookies, offering a streamlined baking process without compromising on that beloved festive charm. Dive into the world of holiday baking with a recipe that is as stunning to look at with its vibrant red and white hues as it is delicious to taste.

Why You’ll Adore These Festive Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

There’s so much to love about these sensational Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars! Their striking red and white appearance immediately captures the festive spirit, making them an instant showstopper on any dessert table. But beyond their visual appeal, it’s the unparalleled taste and texture that truly make them unforgettable. Each bar features a perfectly soft and thick sugar cookie base, baked to golden perfection, offering a delightful chewiness that melts in your mouth.

For those who cherish the refreshing zest of peppermint, these bars are a dream come true. The candy bits are incorporated directly into the cookie dough, ensuring that every bite delivers that cool, invigorating peppermint kick. This is beautifully complemented by a luscious, creamy buttercream frosting, which itself is enhanced with more crushed peppermint for an extra layer of flavor and delightful crunch. Even if you consider yourself on the fence about peppermint, you might find yourself delightfully surprised by how harmonious and utterly delicious this combination truly is. These Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars aren’t just a dessert; they’re an experience, guaranteed to fill your home with the joyful essence of Christmas and create lasting sweet memories.

The Magic of Peppermint: Choosing and Using Your Candy

Peppermint is synonymous with the holiday season, its crisp, cooling flavor evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia. When it comes to crafting the perfect Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars, the type and quality of your peppermint candy can make all the difference. You have several excellent options for integrating this iconic flavor into your holiday baking.

You can readily purchase peppermint that is already pre-crushed, which is a fantastic time-saver, especially during busy holiday preparations. These often come in varying consistencies, from fine crumbs to slightly larger bits, allowing you to choose your preferred texture. Alternatively, for a more hands-on approach and often a fresher, more intense flavor, you can opt for peppermint sticks or classic candy canes and crush them yourself. This method gives you complete control over the size of the candy pieces, from finely ground powder that subtly infuses the dough to chunkier shards that provide a satisfying crunch.

The beauty of these Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars lies in their customizable peppermint intensity. The more crushed candy you sprinkle generously on top of the creamy frosting, the more pronounced and vibrant the peppermint flavor will be in the finished dessert. Don’t be shy with your additions; let your peppermint passion guide you! Consider using a blend of colors, perhaps traditional red and white candy canes, or even green peppermint candies for a unique visual twist. Whichever you choose, the refreshing notes of peppermint are sure to elevate these sugar cookie bars into a truly unforgettable festive treat.

Mastering the Crush: How to Prepare Your Peppermint Candies

Preparing your own crushed peppermint candy for these festive bars is incredibly simple and allows you to customize the texture to your liking. Whether you prefer a fine powder for a delicate infusion or coarser chunks for a satisfying crunch, this method ensures perfect results every time. Here’s a detailed guide on how to crush peppermint candies or candy canes:

What You Need to Make 1 Cup of Crushed Candies:

Approximately 50 small peppermint candies or 10-12 standard-sized candy canes. (Adjust based on candy size)
A sturdy, resealable zip-lock bag (freezer bags are ideal for durability).
A rolling pin, meat mallet, or a small hammer. Alternatively, a coffee grinder or food processor can be used.

Instructions To Make 1 Cup of Crushed Peppermint Candies:

Prepare the Candies: If using candy canes, break them into smaller pieces before placing them in the bag to make the initial crushing easier.
Bag the Candies: Place your peppermint candies or candy cane pieces into the large resealable zip-lock bag. Ensure the bag is securely sealed, expelling as much air as possible to prevent it from bursting during crushing.
Protect Your Surface: Place the sealed bag on a sturdy, flat surface. For added protection and noise reduction, you might place a kitchen towel underneath the bag.
Crush Manually: Using a rolling pin, meat mallet, or hammer, gently but firmly pound the candies. Start with lighter taps and gradually increase pressure. Continuously rotate and flip the bag to ensure even crushing. Continue until the candies reach your desired consistency—from finely crushed for a smoother texture to coarsely crushed for a more noticeable bite.
Using a Machine (Optional): For a quicker method, a coffee grinder or food processor can be used. Place the candies in the device and use short on/off pulsing actions. This prevents the candies from turning into a sticky paste due to heat and allows for better control over the texture. Pulse until you achieve your preferred fineness. Be careful not to over-process.
Measure and Store: Once crushed, measure out the required amount for your recipe. Any excess crushed peppermint can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for future baking projects.

Gather Your Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Creating these delightful Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars requires a few basic baking staples, ensuring a perfectly soft cookie and a rich, creamy frosting. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the ideal texture and flavor profile for this festive treat.

For the Thick Sugar Cookie Bars:

Unsalted Butter: Softened to room temperature. This is essential for a tender, rich cookie bar and allows for easy creaming with sugar.
Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create that signature crisp-chewy edge.
Large Egg: Binds the ingredients together, adding moisture and structure to the dough.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the classic sugar cookie flavor, providing a warm, aromatic base.
All-Purpose Flour: The primary dry ingredient, giving the bars their body and structure.
Baking Powder: A leavening agent that helps the cookie bars rise and become thick and soft.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors in the cookie.
Crushed Peppermint Candies (Optional, but highly recommended): Incorporated into the dough for a burst of minty flavor and a subtle crunch within the bar.

For the Creamy Buttercream Frosting with Crushed Peppermint Candies:

Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): The base for the frosting, dissolving easily to create a smooth, lump-free texture.
Unsalted Butter: Softened to room temperature. Forms the rich, creamy foundation of the buttercream.
Salt: A pinch helps to cut through the sweetness of the frosting, balancing the flavor.
Vanilla Extract or Peppermint Extract: Vanilla offers a classic sweetness, while peppermint extract amplifies the minty theme. Choose based on desired flavor intensity.
Milk of Choice or Heavy Cream: Used to achieve the perfect consistency for the frosting, from thick and spreadable to light and fluffy.
Additional Crushed Peppermint Candies: Generously sprinkled on top of the frosting for extra flavor, texture, and a stunning festive finish.

Step-by-Step Baking Guide: Crafting Your Perfect Peppermint Bars

Creating these delightful Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars is a straightforward process, promising impressive results with minimal effort. Follow these detailed instructions to bake soft, chewy bars topped with luscious peppermint frosting that everyone will love.

Thick Sugar Cookie Bars:

Prepare Your Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing an overhang on the sides for easy lifting. Lightly spray the parchment paper with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer), beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes and incorporates air for a tender cookie bar.
Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract (or peppermint extract if using). Mix until just combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a thick batter forms and no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookie bars.
Fold in Peppermint: Gently fold in the crushed peppermint candies into the batter. Mix just enough to distribute them evenly throughout the dough without overworking it.
Spread into Pan: Press the thick cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. You might find it easier to do this with slightly damp hands or a lightly oiled spatula. Ensure the top is smooth and level.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter). Avoid overbaking to keep the bars soft and chewy.
Cool Completely: Remove the pan from the oven and let the cookie bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Cooling is crucial before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Remove from Pan: Once fully cooled, carefully use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire cookie bar out of the baking pan and transfer it to a cutting board.

Frosting with Crushed Peppermint:

Prepare the Frosting: In a clean mixing bowl, using your electric mixer, combine the powdered sugar, softened unsalted butter, salt, vanilla extract (or peppermint extract), and milk (or heavy cream). Start mixing on low speed until the sugar is incorporated, then increase to medium-high speed and beat for 2-3 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed, one teaspoon at a time.
Frost the Bars: Spread the creamy peppermint frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
Decorate with Peppermint: Generously sprinkle additional crushed peppermint candy over the top of the frosting for a beautiful presentation and an extra burst of minty flavor and crunch.
Chill and Serve: Allow the frosting to firm up slightly at room temperature or by chilling the bars in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. Once firm, cut the large cookie bar into individual squares using a sharp knife. Serve and enjoy!

Creative Variations to Elevate Your Peppermint Cookie Bars

While the classic Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are undeniably delicious, there are numerous ways to customize and enhance this recipe to suit your taste and impress your guests. Get creative with these variations to make your holiday baking truly unique:

White Chocolate Bliss: Introduce a luxurious element by adding 1/2 to 3/4 cup of white chocolate chips to your cookie dough along with the crushed peppermint. White chocolate and peppermint are a match made in heaven, creating a rich, creamy contrast to the refreshing mint. You can also drizzle melted white chocolate over the frosted bars for an elegant finish.
Color Your World Pink (or Red!): Transform your buttercream frosting into a vibrant pink or a deep holiday red. Simply add a few drops of red or pink food coloring to your frosting while mixing until you achieve your desired festive hue. This simple step adds another layer of visual appeal that’s perfect for Christmas or Valentine’s Day.
Go Green: Instead of, or in addition to, traditional red and white peppermint candies, use green peppermint candies or even green candy cane pieces. A combination of red, white, and green crushed candies on top of the frosting creates a wonderfully festive look that truly pops.
Chocolate Drizzle Delight: For the ultimate chocolate-peppermint experience, melt some dark or semi-sweet chocolate and drizzle it decoratively over the frosted bars before sprinkling with crushed peppermint. The bittersweet chocolate beautifully complements the sweet mint.
Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting: For a tangier and incredibly smooth frosting, add 2-3 tablespoons of softened cream cheese to your buttercream recipe when mixing. This adds a lovely depth and richness that many adore.
Extra Peppermint Boost (Extract): If you want an even more intense peppermint flavor in your cookie base, consider adding 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract along with the vanilla extract to the cookie dough mixture.
Swirls of Joy: Instead of uniformly spreading the frosting, try creating beautiful swirls on top with your spatula. This adds a rustic yet elegant touch, especially if your frosting is colored.

Serving & Storage Suggestions for Your Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

Once your Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are baked, frosted, and beautifully adorned, knowing how to serve and store them properly ensures they remain fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

Serving Your Festive Bars:

Temperature is Key: These bars are delightful served at room temperature, allowing the cookie to remain soft and the frosting perfectly creamy. If you prefer a slightly firmer frosting, chill them in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
Perfect Portions: For best presentation, use a sharp knife (wiping it clean between cuts for crisp edges) to slice the cooled and frosted slab into squares or rectangles. A 9×9 inch pan typically yields 9 generous bars, or 16 smaller ones for a larger crowd.
Pairing Suggestions: Serve these festive bars alongside a warm cup of hot chocolate, a classic coffee, or a glass of cold milk. They also make a fantastic addition to any holiday dessert platter, complementing other treats beautifully.
Gift Giving: These bars make a wonderful homemade gift. Arrange them in a decorative box or tin, perhaps separated by parchment paper, and tie with a festive ribbon. They’re sure to bring smiles!

Storing Your Peppermint Delights:

Room Temperature: Uncut and unfrosted cookie bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Frosted Bars: Once frosted, it’s best to store the Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The frosting will firm up, which is often preferred. They will remain fresh and delicious for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving for optimal texture.
Freezing for Later: Both unfrosted and frosted bars can be frozen!
- Unfrosted: Wrap the cooled, unfrosted cookie bar tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature, then frost and serve.
- Frosted: Place the cut bars on a baking sheet and freeze until the frosting is firm (about 1-2 hours). Once firm, transfer the bars to an airtight freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

These peppermint sugar cookie bars are not just for Christmas! If you find yourself with an abundance of leftover candy canes or peppermint candies after the holidays, this recipe is a fantastic way to utilize them and extend the festive joy. You won’t believe the delightful taste of these joyful treats!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying these delicious Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars:

Q: Can I use peppermint extract instead of crushed peppermint candy in the cookie dough?

A: Yes, you can! If you prefer a smoother texture without the crunch of candy bits in the cookie base, you can substitute 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract for the crushed candies in the dough. Add it along with the vanilla extract. However, for that classic festive look and texture, we recommend using crushed candies in the frosting.

Q: How long do these Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars last?

A: When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, unfrosted bars will last for about 3 days. Once frosted, the bars are best kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Q: Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time for a party?

A: Absolutely! You can bake the cookie bars up to 2-3 days in advance. Let them cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature. Frost them the day you plan to serve. Alternatively, you can bake and frost them, then store them in the refrigerator as described above.

Q: Can I freeze Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars?

A: Yes, both unfrosted and frosted bars freeze well!

Unfrosted: Once completely cooled, wrap the entire bar tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting and serving.
Frosted: Place the cut bars on a baking sheet and freeze until the frosting is solid (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe container, layering with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Q: What if I don’t have a 9×9 inch baking pan? Can I use a different size?

A: While a 9×9 inch pan is recommended for the ideal thickness, you can adapt. A 9×13 inch pan will produce thinner bars, so you may need to reduce the baking time by a few minutes (start checking at 15-18 minutes). For thicker bars, you could use an 8×8 inch pan, but be aware they will be significantly thicker and may require a longer baking time (an additional 5-10 minutes). Always bake until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.

Q: Why is my frosting not fluffy?

A: Make sure your butter is truly at room temperature – soft enough to indent with a finger but not melted. Also, ensure you beat the butter and powdered sugar for the recommended 2-3 minutes on medium-high speed. This incorporates air, making the frosting light and fluffy. Adding a tablespoon of milk or cream at a time can also help achieve the right consistency.

Recipe: Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

These homemade, soft, and thick Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are incredibly festive and bursting with flavor! Enjoy peppermint candy bits baked into a tender sugar cookie base, frosted with a creamy, fluffy buttercream, and topped with more delightful crushed peppermint candy. Perfect for holiday gatherings!

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Course: Dessert
Servings: 9 Bars

Ingredients

For the Thick Sugar Cookie Bars:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ¾ cups + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional: ¼ cup crushed peppermint candy

For the Creamy Frosting with Crushed Peppermint:

2 cups powdered sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
¼ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract or ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
2 tablespoons milk of choice or heavy cream
Additional crushed peppermint candy for topping

Instructions

Thick Sugar Cookie Bars:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang. Lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
Mix in the egg and vanilla (or peppermint extract) until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined to form a thick batter. Do not overmix.
If using, gently fold in the ¼ cup crushed peppermint candy until evenly distributed.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking.
Let the cookie bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to carefully lift the entire cookie bar out of the pan.

Creamy Frosting with Crushed Peppermint:

To make the frosting, in a clean bowl, use an electric mixer to combine the powdered sugar, softened butter, salt, vanilla (or peppermint extract), and milk. Beat on low speed until combined, then increase to medium-high and beat for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Spread the frosting evenly on top of the completely cooled cookie bars.
Generously sprinkle with additional crushed peppermint candy.
Allow the frosting to firm up slightly (at room temperature or by chilling for 15-20 minutes), then cut into squares and serve.

Notes

Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting: For a tangier frosting, add 3 tablespoons of softened cream cheese to your buttercream when mixing.
Peppermint White Chocolate Frosting: Melt ½ cup of white chocolate and let it cool to room temperature. Add it to the frosting when mixing for a richer flavor.

Keyword: bars, candy, christmas, cookie bars, cookies, frosting, holidays, peppermint, easy, festive, homemade

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Easy Festive peppermint sugar cookie bars

More Festive Peppermint & Holiday Dessert Recipes for You!

If you’ve fallen in love with these Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars, you’ll be thrilled to discover more enchanting peppermint and holiday-themed desserts from our collection. Expand your festive baking repertoire with these irresistible recipes:

Ultimate Peppermint Chocolate Fudge Brownies: A rich, fudgy brownie base topped with a cool peppermint layer and chocolate ganache.
3 White Chocolate No-Bake Festive Candy Recipes: Quick and easy treats featuring creamy white chocolate and holiday flavors.
Peppermint Crunch Marshmallow Brownies: Chewy brownies with a fluffy marshmallow topping and crunchy peppermint.
Peppermint Marshmallow Fudge: A smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge swirled with peppermint goodness.
Christmas Peppermint M&M Fudge Cookies: Soft cookies loaded with chocolate, M&Ms, and a hint of peppermint.
Holiday White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Mousse Pie: A light and airy cheesecake mousse pie with festive peppermint.
Peppermint Frosted Chocolate Cookies: Decadent chocolate cookies topped with a cool and creamy peppermint frosting.
Christmas Peppermint Oreo Truffles: Easy, no-bake truffles bursting with chocolate and peppermint flavor.
Candy Cane Frosted Cookies: Simple sugar cookies adorned with sweet candy cane frosting.
Peppermint Candy Brownie Trifle: Layers of rich brownie, whipped cream, and peppermint candy for an impressive dessert.
Peppermint Tres Leches Cake: A moist and flavorful tres leches cake with a festive peppermint twist.

Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with sweet, minty joy! Don’t forget to share your creations on Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook!