These Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are soft, buttery, and topped with a creamy peppermint frosting for a perfectly festive treat. They’re ideal for the holidays—or anytime you crave a sweet, minty dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and chewy cookie bars with a rich, buttery flavor.
• Refreshing peppermint twist perfect for the winter season.
• Simple to make—no rolling or cutting out cookies.
• Beautifully festive with crushed candy canes on top.
• Great for parties, cookie exchanges, or homemade gifts.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cookie Bars:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (add more if needed for consistency)
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Optional: a few drops of pink or red food coloring

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
3. Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well combined.
4. Add the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a thick dough forms.
5. Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan, pressing it down with a spatula.
6. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
7. Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan before adding frosting.
8. To make the frosting, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in the peppermint extract and cream. Whip until light and fluffy. Add food coloring if desired.
9. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars.
10. Sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies on top.
11. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 24 bars
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Cooling Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: Around 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the frosting before adding crushed candy.
• Vanilla Frosting: Skip the peppermint extract in the frosting for a milder flavor.
• Festive Colors: Use green and red food coloring in the frosting for a holiday twist.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
• Mini Bars: Bake in a smaller pan for thicker bars or cut into smaller squares for bite-sized treats.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?

They’re ready when the edges turn lightly golden and the center looks set but soft.

Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time?

Yes, bake and frost them a day in advance, then store covered until ready to serve.

What can I use instead of candy canes?

Use crushed peppermint candies or white chocolate curls for a similar festive look.

Can I freeze Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars?

Absolutely—freeze them unfrosted or frosted for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.

What type of food coloring works best?

Gel food coloring provides more vibrant color without thinning the frosting.

Can I make this recipe without peppermint extract?

Yes, you can use vanilla extract only for a classic sugar cookie flavor.

How can I make the frosting thicker?

Add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and use a larger baking pan or two 9×13-inch pans.

How do I prevent overbaking?

Start checking at 18 minutes—remove as soon as the edges are lightly golden.

Are these cookie bars good for gifting?

Definitely! Their festive look and long shelf life make them perfect for holiday boxes or dessert platters.

Conclusion

Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are the ultimate festive dessert—soft, buttery, and perfectly balanced with a refreshing peppermint twist. Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy weekend treat, these bars are a delightful way to spread sweetness and cheer.

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