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Peppermint Mocha Cookie Bars

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Soft, fudgy chocolate–espresso cookie bars filled with peppermint crunch and topped with a silky white chocolate peppermint frosting—perfect for festive gifting, parties, or cozy holiday treats.

Ingredients

  • White Chocolate Frosting:
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream
  • 1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • Cookie Bars:
  • 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
  • 2 tablespoons hot water
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 1/4 cup dark brown sugar, firmly packed
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup finely crushed peppermint candy canes, plus more for decorating

Instructions

  1. Combine white chocolate chips, heavy cream, and peppermint extract in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Refrigerate uncovered for 1 hour.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang.
  3. Mix espresso powder with hot water until dissolved.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
  5. In a large bowl, beat butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and mix again. Stir in espresso mixture, vanilla, and peppermint extract.
  6. Add half the dry mixture, mixing just until combined. Add remaining dry mixture. Stir in dark chocolate chips and crushed candy canes.
  7. Spread dough evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top looks just set. Cool completely in the pan for 30 minutes.
  8. Whip the chilled frosting mixture on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Spread in a thin layer over the cooled bars. Sprinkle extra crushed candy canes.
  9. Cut into 16 bars.

Notes

  • Add mini chocolate chips to the frosting for extra texture.
  • Increase espresso powder for stronger coffee flavor.
  • Swap some candy canes for peppermint baking chips.
  • Add melted chocolate to the batter for deeper richness.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://chocolatecoveredamy.com/peppermint-mocha-cookie-bars/