Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

These homemade peppermint sugar cookie bars are my go to treat for holiday gatherings They are soft and thick with a fresh burst of peppermint both in the dough and sprinkled on top The creamy fluffy frosting with a touch of crushed peppermint candy makes every bite festive and fun Perfect for cookie exchanges or a cozy night in with friends

I baked this on a snowy December night for my nieces and nephews last year and they devoured the entire batch within hours Now it has become a family tradition we look forward to every winter

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter at room temperature: contributes to a tender cake like texture Make sure it is very soft for smooth mixing
• Sugar: for sweetness and that classic sugar cookie base opt for fine granulated sugar for a lighter crumb
• Large egg: adds moisture and richness select fresh eggs with bright yolks
• Vanilla extract: brings warmth to balance the peppermint Choose pure vanilla for best results
• All purpose flour: for structure Ensure it is fresh and measured accurately to avoid dry bars
• Baking powder: gives the bars lift Freshness matters for fluffiness
• Salt: accentuates flavors Use fine sea salt for better distribution
• Crushed peppermint candy: provides crunch and a bright cool flavor Use candy canes or boxed peppermint bits and check for freshness to avoid stickiness
• Powdered sugar for the frosting: creates that fluffy topping Choose pure cane sugar for smoothness
• Milk or heavy cream: gives creamy richness to the frosting Pick whole milk or cream for extra lusciousness
• Optional cream cheese or white chocolate: for extra richness in the frosting Select quality additions for a gourmet touch

Instructions

Prep the Pan:

Line a nine inch square baking pan with parchment paper and spray lightly with nonstick spray This helps lift the bars out cleanly once baked

Cream Butter and Sugar:

In your mixer beat the softened butter and sugar together on medium until it is very light and fluffy about one minute This helps make the base tender

Mix in Egg and Vanilla:

Add the egg and vanilla extract Beat until just incorporated so the bars bake up tender and not tough

Combine Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl whisk the flour salt and baking powder together Gradually add to the wet mixture mixing until just combined The batter will be thick

Add Peppermint Candy:

Gently fold in the crushed peppermint candy Do not overmix as it can make the bars tough

Spread and Bake:

Press the thick dough evenly into the prepared pan Smooth the top with a spatula Bake at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for about twenty minutes or until the top is just golden brown and the center looks set Do not overbake or they will be dry

Cool and Remove:

Let the baked bars cool completely in the pan Use the edges of the parchment to gently lift the bars out in one piece

Make the Frosting:

Beat powdered sugar butter vanilla salt and milk together until smooth and fluffy If using cream cheese or white chocolate blend them in now

Frost and Garnish:

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars Sprinkle extra crushed peppermint candy or festive sprinkles on top Lightly press the toppings so they adhere

Cut and Serve:

Allow the frosted bars to sit for at least fifteen minutes so the frosting sets slightly Cut into nine squares using a sharp knife and serve

My favorite part of this recipe is the crunch of the peppermint candy on top It reminds me of decorating cookies with my grandmother who always let me pile on a little more than everyone else These bars bring back those cozy kitchen memories every time

Storage Tips

Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days They keep best in a single layer to preserve the frosting texture For longer storage refrigerate and bring to room temperature before serving The bars also freeze well Just wrap tightly and thaw at room temperature

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the vanilla extract in the base or frosting for a little more peppermint extract if you prefer a stronger minty punch Use gluten free baking flour if someone has dietary needs Instead of peppermint bits try crushed spearmint candy canes or even mini chocolate chips for a fun variation

Serving Suggestions

These bars are wonderful for holiday dessert tables Consider serving them with mugs of hot cocoa or peppermint tea For a more decadent treat cut into small squares and layer with chocolate sauce and whipped cream

Cultural and Historical Context

Peppermint treats are a longstanding tradition in winter holiday baking throughout Europe and North America The pairing of cool mint and sweet cookie has roots in Victorian era sweets Candy canes were originally invented as a holiday treat in the seventeenth century so using them here adds a bit of old fashioned festivity

Seasonal Adaptations

Swap peppermint candy for pastel mints in spring for a fresh twist Top with red heart sprinkles for Valentine flavor Use lemon or orange zest in the dough and frosting for a summery take

Success Stories

Last year my neighbor borrowed this recipe for her cookie swap and it was voted the prettiest tray Everyone asks for the secret and it always comes down to starting with well creamed butter and slow baking so the bars stay moist

Freezer Meal Conversion

Once baked and cooled you can freeze these bars either frosted or unfrosted They are perfect for making ahead during busy holiday weeks To serve let them come fully to room temperature before adding extra toppings

Whip up a batch of these peppermint sugar cookie bars for a festive touch to your dessert table They are sure to be a crowd favorite all season

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do I keep cookie bars soft and moist?

Ensure you don't overbake the bars; remove them from the oven as soon as the edges turn golden. Letting them cool completely in the pan helps retain moisture.

→ Can I use peppermint extract in the frosting?

Yes, swapping some or all of the vanilla with peppermint extract enhances the minty flavor in the frosting layer.

→ What kind of peppermint candy works best?

Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes both create a festive, crunchy texture and classic flavor throughout the bars and topping.

→ Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for several days or refrigerated for longer freshness.

→ Are there any frosting variations?

Try adding cream cheese for richness, or blend in melted white chocolate for extra sweetness and smooth texture.