When the holiday season rolls around, there’s one recipe that never fails to brighten my spirits: Chocolate Peppermint Bliss Bars. The very first time I made these delightful treats, I was overwhelmed by the warmth and joy they brought to my family gathering. The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint evokes childhood memories of decorating the Christmas tree with my loved ones, nibbling on festive treats, and basking in the glow of twinkling lights.
This recipe is not just a dessert; it’s a tradition that resonates with the essence of celebration and love. Chocolate Peppermint Bliss Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a family get-together, holiday party, or just a cozy night in with your favorite movie. Not only do these bars taste amazing, but they are also quite simple to prepare and can be made in a snap. Just imagine the taste of velvety chocolate melting in your mouth with a hint of peppermint – pure bliss!
Now, let’s dive into why you need to try this recipe. Not only are these bars a delightful treat that everyone will love, but they also boast a range of benefits: they are surprisingly easy to make, cost-effective, and can be stored for days (if they last that long!). So don’t hold back—let’s get started on creating these delicious Chocolate Peppermint Bliss Bars!
Chocolate Peppermint Bliss Bars Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup crushed candy canes
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Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract to create a rich base for your bars.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. This is where the magic happens and the rich chocolate flavor begins to form!
- Stir in the chocolate chips and peppermint extract, which will infuse a wonderful holiday flavor into your bliss bars.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Give it a gentle tap to release any air bubbles that may be lurking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
- Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, spread a layer of melted chocolate on top and sprinkle with crushed candy canes for that extra crunch and visual appeal.
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours to set before cutting them into squares.
- Enjoy! These Chocolate Peppermint Bliss Bars are perfect for sharing, gifting, or just treating yourself!
Pro Tips
Creating the perfect Chocolate Peppermint Bliss Bars doesn’t require any culinary craziness, but a few tricks can elevate your experience!
- Use high-quality chocolate: The better the chocolate, the richer the flavor of your bars will be. Treat yourself to some gourmet chocolate chips for an indulgent taste.
- Let them chill adequately: Don’t skip the chilling time! This is crucial for the bars to firm up and hold their shape when you cut them.
Variations
Want to mix things up? Here are a few variations you can try for your Chocolate Peppermint Bliss Bars:
- Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch and complement the chocolate flavor beautifully.
- Dark or white chocolate: Feel free to substitute the chocolate chips with white chocolate or dark chocolate for a different taste profile.
- Seasonal toppings: In addition to crushed candy canes, consider using seasonal sprinkles or drizzle some caramel for an entirely different twist!
These bars shine during various occasions—from holiday gatherings to birthday parties, or simply when you’re curled up on the sofa with your favorite book. My grandmother always said that the best memories are made around good food. These bars definitely create a perfect setting for making cherished memories, and I can already hear the laughter and joy they bring at any celebration.
Conclusion
In a world filled with dessert options, Chocolate Peppermint Bliss Bars stand out with their irresistible combination of chocolate and mint. Why should you try this recipe? Because it captures the essence of the holiday season while being convenient and easy to make. The joy you’ll experience while sharing these bars with friends and family is absolutely priceless!
So don’t wait—give this recipe a shot! You’ll not only enjoy a delicious treat but also create sweet memories to cherish for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I substitute if I don’t have peppermint extract?
You can use mint extract as well, but do so sparingly, as its flavor can be more intense. You can also omit it altogether and enjoy pure chocolate bliss!
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, these bars taste even better after a day or two in the fridge. Just make sure to keep them stored in an airtight container.
How should I store Chocolate Peppermint Bliss Bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they’ll last up to a week.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes! You can freeze the bars before or after cutting them. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and they’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer. To enjoy them later, simply thaw them at room temperature.
What if I want to make these bars gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is designed for baking. Just check that your chocolate chips and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Those are just a few of the most common questions I receive regarding the delightful Chocolate Peppermint Bliss Bars. Let me know if you have more queries as you embark on your baking adventure!