Holiday Peppermint Bars

If you’re looking to add a festive touch to your dessert table this holiday season, these Holiday Peppermint Bars are sure to be a hit! With a perfect balance of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint flavors, these bars are ideal for gatherings, parties, or simply enjoying a cozy night in. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these delightful treats will become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire.

**Holiday Peppermint Bars**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup crushed peppermint candies (about 20 candy canes)

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

2. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

3. **Add Vanilla and Egg:** Mix in the vanilla extract and the large egg until well combined.

4. **Incorporate Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.

5. **Layer the Dough:** Press about 2/3 of the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating an even layer.

6. **Chocolate Layer:** Sprinkle the semisweet chocolate chips evenly over the dough in the pan.

7. **Remaining Dough:** Crumble the remaining dough mixture over the chocolate chips, creating a slightly uneven crumbly topping.

8. **Bake:** Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.

9. **Cool and Add Toppings:** Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then sprinkle the white chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies on top.

10. **Chill and Cut:** Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to set the toppings. Once chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and cut into squares.

11. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the Holiday Peppermint Bars on a festive platter or package them as gifts for friends and family. These bars are best enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa or a peppermint mocha!

Whether you’re hosting a holiday cookie exchange or simply looking to indulge in a sweet treat, these Holiday Peppermint Bars are a delightful addition to your menu. The combination of velvety chocolate, cool peppermint, and buttery cookie base creates a flavor profile that screams winter festivities. Make a batch of these bars to spread holiday cheer and cozy vibes wherever you go. Happy baking and happy holidays!