Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

These Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are a festive, sweet treat perfect for the holiday season. With a soft, chewy texture and a delightful peppermint flavor, these cookie bars are a great addition to any celebration. Topped with crushed candy canes and white chocolate chips, they offer a delightful crunch and a burst of festive flavor.

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 your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until fully incorporated.
5. Gently fold in the crushed candy canes and white chocolate chips, ensuring an even distribution throughout the dough.
6. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges of the bars are lightly golden. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
8. Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 12 bars.

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle some melted chocolate over the top of the bars after they have cooled.
• Vegan Version: Replace the butter with a plant-based butter substitute and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) in place of the egg.
• Add-ins: You can include other mix-ins like mini marshmallows, chopped nuts, or white chocolate chunks for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze these cookie bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Reheating: If you prefer warm cookie bars, simply microwave a single serving for about 10-15 seconds.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid an overly salty flavor.
2. Can I make these bars without the peppermint extract? Yes, you can skip the peppermint extract if you prefer a more traditional sugar cookie flavor.
3. How can I tell when the cookie bars are done? The edges should be lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
4. Can I substitute the white chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate? Yes, you can use any type of chocolate chips according to your preference.
5. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
6. How do I store leftover bars? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
7. Can I use a different type of candy cane besides the traditional red-and-white variety? Yes, any flavor of candy cane can be used, such as chocolate peppermint or even non-traditional colors.
8. Are these cookie bars gluten-free? The original recipe contains gluten, but you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.
9. Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer? Yes, a hand mixer works perfectly for creaming the butter and sugar, as well as for combining the wet and dry ingredients.
10. How do I cut the bars evenly? For clean cuts, allow the bars to cool completely, then use a sharp knife to slice through them gently.

Conclusion

Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are a simple, delicious way to bring holiday cheer to your kitchen. With their soft texture, festive flavors, and easy preparation, these bars are sure to become a holiday favorite. Whether you’re making them for a party, a gift, or just to enjoy with family, these cookie bars are a sweet treat everyone will love.

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