Peppermint Mocha Cookie Bars Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

White Chocolate Frosting:

• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract

Cookie Bars:

• 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
• 2 tablespoons hot water
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/4 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup finely crushed peppermint candy canes, plus more for decorating

Directions

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips, heavy cream, and peppermint extract. Microwave at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until fully melted and smooth. Place the mixture in the refrigerator to chill for about 1 hour.
2. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Line an 8x8-inch square pan with parchment paper, ensuring theres enough paper to hang over the sides.
3. In a small bowl, dissolve the instant espresso powder in hot water. Set aside.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, baking soda, and baking powder until well combined.
5. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and continue beating until well incorporated.
6. Mix in the espresso mixture, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until combined.
7. Gradually add half of the dry flour mixture and mix until just incorporated. Add the remaining flour mixture and mix until combined. The dough will be thick.
8. Fold in the dark chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candy canes.
9. Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bars are set and a toothpick inserted comes out with just a few crumbs.
11. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan for about 30 minutes.
12. After the bars have cooled, remove the chilled white chocolate mixture from the refrigerator. Using an electric mixer, whip the mixture on medium-high speed until it holds stiff peaks.
13. Spread the whipped white chocolate frosting evenly over the cooled bars.
14. Sprinkle additional crushed peppermint candy canes over the frosting for decoration.
15. Cut the cooled bars into 16 squares and serve. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	11g Fat	25g Carbs	2g Protein
210	11g (15%)	25g (9%)	2g (4%)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin of Peppermint Mocha Cookie Bars

The peppermint mocha flavor combination has become synonymous with the holiday season, especially popularized by major coffee chains during the winter months. The combination of rich espresso, smooth chocolate, and refreshing peppermint is beloved for its warm, comforting flavors that evoke the essence of festive indulgence. While peppermint mochas have been around for decades, the trend of incorporating this classic flavor into baked goods, such as cookies and bars, emerged more recently. Peppermint Mocha Cookie Bars are a modern twist on this holiday favorite, bringing together the delicious flavors in a convenient, easy-to-share bar format.

Regional Features

Peppermint Mocha Cookie Bars, like many modern dessert recipes, reflect a fusion of global flavors. The mocha base comes from the marriage of chocolate and espresso, both of which have international roots. Coffee (and espresso, in particular) is a staple in many cultures, particularly in Italy and South America, where the beans are grown. Chocolate, too, has a rich history in Central and South America. Peppermint, though a more universally enjoyed herb, is often used in winter celebrations across the globe, making this dessert a melting pot of regional flavors suited to cozy, festive moments.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While many holiday cookies or bars incorporate chocolate and mint, Peppermint Mocha Cookie Bars stand out due to the addition of espresso powder, which deepens the flavor profile. This bar differs from typical peppermint-flavored desserts, such as peppermint bark or peppermint cookies, by bringing in the coffee element, making it more complex and giving it a richer, more adult flavor. The texture is also distinct from classic chewy peppermint cookies, as it has the fudgy, dense structure of a cookie bar, which allows for the frosting to sit on top without overwhelming the flavor.

Where These Bars Are Commonly Served

Peppermint Mocha Cookie Bars are the perfect treat for holiday gatherings, whether they are for family celebrations, office parties, or festive events with friends. Their rich, comforting flavors make them ideal for cold weather, often appearing at Christmas or New Year's Eve parties. They're also great for bake sales, as the bars are easy to cut and share. Whether served alongside a hot cup of coffee or as a sweet finish to a holiday dinner, these bars are sure to delight guests of all ages.

Interesting Facts

• Did you know that the first commercial peppermint mocha drink was introduced by Starbucks in 2002? It quickly became a fan favorite and has since become a staple of the holiday menu at many coffee shops.
• Peppermint has been used for centuries not just for its cooling taste but also for its medicinal properties. It has been used to aid digestion and reduce headaches.
• White chocolate, used in the frosting of these cookie bars, is technically not "real" chocolate. It contains cocoa butter but lacks cocoa solids, which is what gives traditional chocolate its distinctive flavor.

In conclusion, Peppermint Mocha Cookie Bars are a delightful blend of holiday cheer and indulgence, bringing together flavors that have been beloved across cultures for centuries. Whether served at a festive gathering or enjoyed as a personal treat, these bars embody the essence of the winter season.

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