Peppermint Mocha Cookie Bars are the ultimate holiday dessert, combining the rich flavors of mocha and peppermint with a festive touch of sprinkles and mini M&Ms. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings or packaging up as a sweet gift. A layer of white chocolate and peppermint chips adds extra indulgence to every bite, while a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk keeps the bars soft and chewy. Simple ingredients come together to create a dessert that’s as delightful to eat as it is to make.

Peppermint Mocha Cookie Bars
Peppermint mocha cookie bars | Myhomemaderecipe.com

These Peppermint Mocha Cookie Bars combine the rich flavors of mocha and peppermint with a festive mix of sprinkles and M&M Baking Bits. Perfect for the holiday season, these bars are easy to make and ideal for sharing.

INGREDIENTS

  • Unsweetened Chocolate (2 oz): Coarsely chopped for melting, adding a rich chocolate base.
  • All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): Provides structure and base for the cookie dough.
  • Baking Powder (3 tsp): Leavens the dough, helping it rise slightly during baking.
  • Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
  • Butter (12 tbsp): Softened to room temperature, gives a creamy texture to the dough.
  • Vegetable Shortening (4 tbsp): Adds a light, tender texture to the cookie bars.
  • Brown Sugar (1 1/3 cups): Adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor.
  • Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup): Contributes sweetness and a slightly crisp texture.
  • Eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together, helping with structure and moisture.
  • Pure Coffee Extract (2 tsp): Infuses a subtle coffee flavor, enhancing the mocha taste.
  • White Chocolate Chips (1 cup): Adds a sweet, creamy contrast to the dark chocolate base.
  • Peppermint Baking Chips (1 cup): Adds a festive, minty touch, perfect for holiday flavors.
  • Mini M&M Baking Bits (1/2 cup): Adds color and a fun, crunchy texture.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk (3/4 of a 14 oz can): Keeps the bars chewy and adds sweetness.
  • Christmas-Colored Sprinkles (1 tsp): For a festive, decorative touch on top.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:
Line a 13x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
Step 2:
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3:
Using a double boiler or a heatproof bowl over simmering water, melt the unsweetened chocolate, stirring until smooth.
Step 4:
In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together the butter, shortening, brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed until well blended.
Step 5:
Add the melted chocolate, eggs, and coffee extract, mixing until smooth and combined.
Step 6:
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the white chocolate chips.
Step 7:
Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, ensuring not to fully bake.
Step 8:
Remove from the oven and immediately top with peppermint chips, mini M&Ms, and sprinkles. Drizzle with sweetened condensed milk.
Step 9:
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Step 10:
Allow to cool completely, then lift out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares.

Serving and Storage Tips

  • Serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
  • These bars make a festive addition to holiday dessert platters or gift boxes.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Helpful Notes

  • Use high-quality unsweetened chocolate for a richer flavor base.
  • Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.
  • Feel free to adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk for desired sweetness and chewiness.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

  • Chef Duff Goldman recommends using a mix of white and dark chocolate for an even more layered taste.
  • Chef Christina Tosi suggests sprinkling extra peppermint chips before the final bake for an added festive touch.
  • Chef Jacques Torres advises melting chocolate slowly to avoid graininess in the bars.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE

  • Combines the classic flavors of peppermint and mocha for a holiday-inspired treat.
  • Easy to make and perfect for sharing at gatherings or gifting.
  • Offers a delightful mix of textures, from chewy to crunchy.
  • Visually festive and a hit with both kids and adults.

VARIATIONS

  • Use dark chocolate instead of unsweetened chocolate for a slightly sweeter taste.
  • Swap peppermint chips with crushed candy canes for added texture and color.
  • Add a handful of chopped nuts for a nutty crunch in each bite.
  • Try adding a swirl of caramel on top for an extra layer of flavor.
Peppermint Mocha Cookie Bars
Peppermint Mocha Cookie Bars | MyhomemadeRecipe.com