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Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

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These Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are a festive and delicious treat perfect for the holiday season! With a soft sugar cookie base, a creamy peppermint frosting, and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, they’re easy to make and full of holiday cheer. Perfect for parties, gifting, or a cozy evening at home.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cookie Bars:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Peppermint Frosting:

  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
  • ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 23 drops red food coloring (optional)

Topping:

  • ½ cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies

Instructions

  1. Make the Cookie Bars:
    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
    • In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
    • Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
    • Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the bars cool completely before frosting.
  2. Prepare the Frosting:
    • In a medium bowl, beat the butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and peppermint extract, mixing until creamy and spreadable. Add food coloring if desired.
  3. Assemble the Bars:
    • Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie base. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top for a festive touch.
    • Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of salt to the frosting.
  • Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.