Irresistible Peppermint Gooey Bars – Holiday Treat Delight

There’s something downright magical about Peppermint Gooey Bars. Picture this: a soft, chewy base that melts in your mouth, topped with a rich layer of peppermint goodness that dances on your taste buds like a sugarplum fairy. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and making you feel like a kid again, eagerly awaiting the holiday season. For more inspiration, check out this pecan pie bars recipe.

Now imagine the first bite—you know, that moment when the flavors collide and create a symphony of sweet peppermint and buttery goodness? It’s like the best holiday party you’ve ever been to, but instead of awkward small talk and fruitcake, you get these gooey delights that steal the spotlight every time. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in with your favorite movie, these bars will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe thirds).

Ingredients for Peppermint Gooey Bars

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Unsalted Butter: Use one cup of softened unsalted butter for a rich base that adds moisture and flavor.

• Granulated Sugar: About two cups will sweeten the bars perfectly without overpowering the minty flavor.

• Brown Sugar: Half a cup of packed brown sugar adds depth and chewiness to these delightful treats.

• Eggs: You’ll need four large eggs to bind everything together and give structure to your bars.

• All-Purpose Flour: Two cups will create the lovely texture we all adore in gooey bars.

• Baking Powder: Just one teaspoon helps these bars rise while keeping them soft and chewy.

• Salt: A pinch of salt balances out the sweetness wonderfully.

• Peppermint Extract: One tablespoon gives those signature minty vibes that make these bars so special.

• Chocolate Chips: Use two cups—dark or semi-sweet—for that rich chocolaty finish everyone craves.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Peppermint Gooey Bars

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you gather your ingredients. This ensures even baking and helps avoid gooey disasters.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. You want those gooey bars to slide right out like magic!

Step 3: Cream Together Butter and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, cream together one cup of softened unsalted butter, two cups of granulated sugar, and half a cup of brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial—it’s where all the magic starts!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavor

Beat in four large eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Then mix in one tablespoon of peppermint extract; this is where things start smelling heavenly.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together two cups of all-purpose flour, one teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined; don’t overmix unless you want tough bars.

Step 6: Fold In Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in two cups of chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter. It’s okay if some chips stick out—more chocolate is always welcome!

Now pour that luscious batter into your prepared dish and spread it evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set but the center remains soft and gooey—trust me; it’s worth waiting for! Once done, let them cool before slicing into squares.

Transfer to plates or simply dive right in—these Peppermint Gooey Bars are best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored in an airtight container for up to five days (if they last that long). Enjoy every delicious bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the ultimate Peppermint Gooey Bars, start by preheating your oven and preparing the pan. Mix the ingredients while the oven warms up, then bake for the recommended time. Let them cool slightly before slicing to ensure perfect gooeyness.

Add Your Touch

Customize your Peppermint Gooey Bars by adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out peppermint extract for almond extract to create a different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless! For more inspiration, check out this peppermint dark chocolate truffles recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Peppermint Gooey Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

A few years back, I served these Peppermint Gooey Bars at a holiday party, and my friends still rave about them! One bite had everyone begging for the recipe, which made me feel like a kitchen rock star. cinnamon graham s’more cupcakes.

FAQs :

What are Peppermint Gooey Bars?

Peppermint Gooey Bars are delightful, layered treats that combine a rich, buttery base with a creamy peppermint filling. Topped with chocolate and crushed candy canes, these bars are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet snack. peanut butter cups recipe The gooey texture and refreshing peppermint flavor make them a favorite among dessert lovers. These bars are easy to make and can be customized by adding extra toppings or adjusting the mintiness to suit your taste preferences.

How do I store Peppermint Gooey Bars?

To store Peppermint Gooey Bars, place them in an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and gooey texture. If you plan to enjoy them later, you can freeze the bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight for the best results. They will keep well for about 5-7 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make Peppermint Gooey Bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make Peppermint Gooey Bars ahead of time! In fact, making them a day or two in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. After preparing the bars, let them cool completely before cutting them into squares. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This makes them an excellent choice for holiday parties or whenever you need a quick dessert option.

What variations can I try with Peppermint Gooey Bars?

You can easily customize Peppermint Gooey Bars by experimenting with different ingredients. For instance, try substituting white chocolate for the regular chocolate topping for a sweeter flavor profile. You could also add crushed nuts or swap out peppermint extract for other flavorings like almond or vanilla. Additionally, consider using seasonal sprinkles on top instead of candy canes for a festive twist. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion for Peppermint Gooey Bars :

In summary, Peppermint Gooey Bars offer a delicious blend of flavors and textures that make them an irresistible treat any time of year, especially during festive occasions. Their easy preparation and adaptability allow you to customize them according to your taste preferences. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or stored for later, these bars promise a delightful experience with every bite. Don’t hesitate to whip up a batch and share these sweet delights with friends and family!

Peppermint Gooey Bars

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Elina
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x

Save Recipe Recipe Saved

Save Recipe Recipe Saved

Description

Peppermint Gooey Bars are a festive indulgence that marries a soft, buttery base with a luscious peppermint layer and rich chocolate chips. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, these bars deliver an irresistible gooey texture and delightful minty flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tbsp peppermint extract
• 2 cups chocolate chips (dark or semi-sweet)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add peppermint extract.
4. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix into wet ingredients until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
6. Pour batter into the prepared dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes until edges are set but center remains gooey.
7. Allow to cool before slicing into squares.

Notes

– For added flavor, incorporate crushed nuts or swap peppermint extract for almond extract.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (70g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 95mg