Cake Mix Peppermint Bark Cookies

Cake Mix Peppermint Bark Cookies

Cake Mix Peppermint Bark Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional holiday treats, combining the rich flavors of devil’s food cake with the refreshing crunch of peppermint. This recipe is perfect for cozy gatherings, festive celebrations, or simply as a sweet indulgence on a chilly evening. With its soft, chewy texture and delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen, these cookies are bound to evoke feelings of nostalgia and joy, making them a must-try for every cookie lover.

What makes this recipe even more appealing is its simplicity. With a few basic ingredients and a step-by-step approach, you can whip up a batch of these cookies without breaking a sweat. Easy to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, these cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday season or any time of the year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are numerous reasons to fall in love with Cake Mix Peppermint Bark Cookies. For one, the prep work is minimal, making it an easy option for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs. The use of a boxed cake mix streamlines the process, allowing you to focus on the fun – like rolling the cookie dough in crushed candies!

These cookies are not just quick to make; they are also a hit at any gathering. Their festive appearance and unique flavor combination make them a standout treat, sure to impress anyone who bites into them. Plus, the minimal ingredients mean you can whip them up without a trip to the grocery store, making it a flexible and convenient baking option.

Ingredients

• 1 box (15.25-oz.) devil’s food cake mix: For a rich, chocolatey base that pairs perfectly with peppermint.
• 2 large eggs: These give the cookies structure and a lovely chewiness.
• 5 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted: Adds a creamy richness to the dough.
• 1 Tbsp. coconut oil, melted: This introduces a slight tropical flavor and keeps the cookies moist.
• 2/3 cup finely chopped white chocolate or white chocolate peppermint bark: Creamy bites that create a wonderful contrast to the rich chocolate.
• Cooking spray: Ensures your cookies come off easily, leaving no mess behind.
• 1 (8-oz.) bag crushed peppermints: The star ingredient that not only adds a festive crunch but also a burst of minty freshness.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a cookie that is not only classic in flavor but also delightful in texture and appearance.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Whisk Together Ingredients
   In a large bowl, combine the devil’s food cake mix, eggs, melted butter, and melted coconut oil. Use a whisk to mix until just combined. The dough will be thick and may require a little elbow grease.

2. Make It Smooth
   Switch to a spatula and continue mixing until the dough is smooth. This might take a little time, but it’s worth it for that perfect consistency!

3. Fold in Chocolate
   Now it’s time to fold in your finely chopped white chocolate or peppermint bark. This will add delightful pockets of sweetness throughout your cookies.

4. Chill the Dough
   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for 5 to 10 minutes. Chilling the dough helps in creating thicker and chewier cookies.

5. Prepare for Baking
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper and spray them lightly with cooking spray.

6. Scoop & Roll
   Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop the dough into balls. Roll each ball in the crushed peppermint candies until well coated. This adds a festive touch to your cookies!

7. Flatten & Bake
   Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets and flatten them slightly. Bake for 3 minutes, then give the pans a bang on the counter. Continue baking until the cookies are soft and moist on the inside, which should take about 3 more minutes.

8. Cool Down
   Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 to 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step allows the cookies to set properly.

Tips & Tricks

• Correct Chilling Time: Don’t skip the refrigerating step; it enhances the texture of your cookies and helps them keep their shape while baking.
• Make it Minty: For an extra minty flavor, add a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough.
• Decorative Finish: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the tops of the cooled cookies for an elegant presentation.
• Customization: Experiment with different types of chocolate or mix in other candies to switch up the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These Cake Mix Peppermint Bark Cookies are perfect for holiday parties, winter celebrations, or as a cozy after-dinner treat. Pair them with a warm cup of hot chocolate or a chilly glass of milk for the ultimate indulgence. They make excellent gifts when placed in a festive tin or bag, allowing you to share cheer with friends and family.

Nutritional Information

A serving size of two cookies (about 50g) typically contains:

• Calories: 200
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 2g

Enjoy these treats responsibly; balance is key to any delightful dessert experience!

Storing Tips & Variations

To keep your freshly baked cookies at their best:

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This will help maintain their soft texture.
• Freezing: These cookies freeze beautifully! Wrap them in plastic wrap and then place them in a resealable bag. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To enjoy a freshly-baked taste, microwave frozen cookies for about 15-20 seconds before serving.
• Variations: Try using different cake mixes like red velvet or vanilla, and mix in assorted candies for a fun twist.

Conclusion

These Cake Mix Peppermint Bark Cookies are a festive and fun addition to any dessert table. Easy to make and even easier to love, they are sure to bring smiles to your family and friends. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, and I would love to hear about your experience baking and enjoying these delightful cookies!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! While devil’s food cake mix brings a rich chocolate flavor, you can use any flavor you prefer, such as red velvet or vanilla.

2. How long do the cookies stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies can last up to one week. For long-term storage, freeze them for up to three months.

3. Can I substitute the white chocolate?
Yes, you can use semi-sweet or milk chocolate if you prefer. Just be aware that it will change the flavor profile slightly.

4. What can I do with leftover crushed peppermints?
Leftover crushed peppermints can be sprinkled on ice cream, used to decorate other baked goods, or mixed into hot chocolate for an extra festive flair!

5. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free peppermint bark cookies, simply substitute the devil’s food cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix, and follow the same recipe. Enjoy your baking!