Irresistible Peppermint Bark Peanut Butter Cookies with White Chocolate

If you’re searching for a delicious holiday cookie that hits the perfect balance between sweet, nutty, and peppermint-fresh, then these Peppermint Bark Peanut Butter Cookies with White Chocolate are about to become your new favorite treat. Crunchy, festive, and bursting with the rich flavors of peanut butter, cool peppermint bark, and creamy white chocolate, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any festive occasion or cozy winter evening.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Holiday Flavor: Combines the classic warmth of peanut butter with refreshing peppermint for a festive twist.
• Crunchy and Creamy Contrast: Crispy cookie texture blends beautifully with creamy white chocolate chunks.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe great for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for holiday parties, gift-giving, or just a special snack with your favorite hot drink.
• Visually Stunning: Peppermint bark adds a beautiful, festive touch that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses straightforward ingredients that bring out the best peanut butter cookie base while adding seasonal charm with peppermint bark and white chocolate. Every ingredient has a purpose, from creating the ideal cookie texture to delivering the perfect combination of flavors and festive colors.

• Creamy Peanut Butter: Provides a rich, nutty foundation and moist texture for the cookies.
• Granulated Sugar and Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a caramel depth while granulated sugar keeps the cookies crisp.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the sturdy structure of the cookie with the right chewiness.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly without losing their crunch.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances peanut butter’s natural sweetness.
• White Chocolate Chips: Melt delightfully in each bite for creamy, sweet moments.
• Peppermint Bark: Adds colorful, crunchy bursts of peppermint-infused chocolate that scream holiday.
• Optional: Sea Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

Variations for Peppermint Bark Peanut Butter Cookies with White Chocolate

Feel free to customize these cookies to suit your preferences! Whether adjusting the chocolate type, swapping ingredients for dietary needs, or mixing in your personal trademark additions, these cookies are incredibly easy to make your own.

• Dark Chocolate Swap: Use dark or semi-sweet chocolate chunks instead of white chocolate for a richer contrast.
• Nut-Free Version: Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter to avoid nuts without losing creaminess.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for allergy-friendly treats.
• Extra Peppermint Kick: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough for intensified flavor.
• Sprinkles or Crushed Candy Canes: Sprinkle on top before baking for extra holiday sparkle and crunch.

How to Make Peppermint Bark Peanut Butter Cookies with White Chocolate

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat together the peanut butter, both sugars, and egg until creamy and well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract for that warm, inviting aroma.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and sea salt if using. This ensures your leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 4: Create the Cookie Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until everything is fully incorporated but avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 5: Fold in White Chocolate and Peppermint Bark

Gently fold in white chocolate chips and chopped peppermint bark pieces, ensuring even dispersal so that every cookie gets that festive crunch and creamy melt.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop generous tablespoons of dough spaced about 2 inches apart on your baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures they firm up to a perfect crunchy-chewy texture.

Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Bark Peanut Butter Cookies with White Chocolate

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature egg and peanut butter for even mixing and smooth dough.
• Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies when edges turn golden but centers are still soft for ideal texture.
• Chop Peppermint Bark Finely: Smaller pieces spread better throughout and avoid large clumps.
• Use Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and promotes even browning on the bottom.
• Customize Sweetness: Adjust sugar quantities based on how sweet you prefer your cookies.

How to Serve Peppermint Bark Peanut Butter Cookies with White Chocolate

Garnishes

Dust a light sprinkle of crushed candy canes or edible glitter on warm cookies for an extra pop of festive flair. You can also add a drizzle of melted white chocolate for a glossy finish.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a steaming cup of hot cocoa, peppermint-spiked coffee, or even a glass of cold milk to highlight the cookie’s creamy and minty flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the cookies in a clear glass jar tied with a red ribbon for gifting or arrange them on a holiday-themed platter surrounded by fresh pine sprigs and miniature ornaments for a stunning presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days, preserving their crunch and flavor perfectly.

Freezing

You can freeze baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transferring to a sealed freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months without losing texture or taste.

Reheating

Warm cookies for 10-15 seconds in the microwave or briefly in a low oven to revive that just-baked softness while keeping the white chocolate melty and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds an extra texture to your cookies, but keep in mind it may change the dough consistency slightly, so adjust flour as needed.

Is peppermint bark necessary or can I substitute candy canes?

You can substitute finely crushed candy canes if peppermint bark isn’t available, but the bark adds chocolate layers that candy canes alone won’t provide.

How do I make these cookies vegan?

Use a plant-based butter substitute or coconut oil, vegan white chocolate chips, and a flaxseed or chia egg substitute to make these cookies completely vegan.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Absolutely! Just double all ingredients and bake in batches. Make sure to space out cookies properly on baking sheets for even cooking.

What’s the best way to crush peppermint bark for the recipe?

Place peppermint bark in a zip-top bag and gently tap with a rolling pin or use a food processor in short bursts to achieve the perfect size pieces.

Final Thoughts

These Peppermint Bark Peanut Butter Cookies with White Chocolate are more than just a holiday treat — they’re a delightful experience that combines crunchy, creamy, and refreshing flavors into each bite. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or simply to enjoy during the cozy season, this recipe is sure to become a beloved tradition. So grab your ingredients and get ready to make some magic in the kitchen!

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