The aroma of melted chocolate and crumbled peppermint wafts through the air, inviting you to indulge in a sweet treasure of holiday cheer. Peppermint Gooey Bars are not just a dessert; they’re an experience, a luscious celebration of flavors that dance on your palate like sugarplum fairies at a winter gala. no-bake pumpkin pie energy balls Imagine biting into that rich, creamy center, surrounded by a buttery crust that melts in your mouth, leaving you with the blissful taste of minty goodness.
As I reminisce about my first encounter with these gooey wonders during a family gathering, I can still picture my Aunt Mildred’s famous dessert table. It was like walking into Willy Wonka’s factory but with more warmth and fewer Oompa Loompas. Those bars were the highlight of the night, and let me tell you, they vanished faster than you could say “Christmas cookie.” Now, every time I whip up a batch of Peppermint Gooey Bars, I’m transported back to that joyful moment, and I promise you will be too! For more inspiration, check out this pecan pie bars recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Peppermint Gooey Bars are incredibly easy to make, even for kitchen novices.
- Their delightful flavor profile combines creamy chocolate with refreshing mint for an irresistible treat.
- With their beautiful layers and vibrant colors, these bars are sure to impress at any gathering.
- Versatile enough for holidays or casual get-togethers, they fit any occasion perfectly!
Ingredients for Peppermint Gooey Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for easy mixing and a rich flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create that lovely gooey texture.
- Brown Sugar: For deeper flavor and moisture; light or dark works fine!
- All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our bars; it binds everything together beautifully.
- Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives that rich chocolatey taste we all crave.
- Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient is the secret weapon for achieving ultimate gooeyness.
- Crushed Peppermint Candy Canes: Adds crunch and festive flair! Go ahead and crush them yourself for freshness.
For the Topping:
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips work best for that perfect balance of sweetness.
- Extra Crushed Peppermint Candy Canes: Sprinkle on top for added color and crunch.
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). Grab an appropriate-sized baking dish (9×13 works great) and spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a large bowl, combine softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and cocoa powder gradually until blended. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Create the Gooey Layer
In another bowl, mix together sweetened condensed milk with half of your crushed peppermint candy canes. Pour this over the crust you’ve just created. Sprinkle chocolate chips over this layer generously—because who doesn’t love extra chocolate?
Step 4: Bake It Up
Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until set but still soft in the center. Let it cool slightly before adding additional toppings.
Step 5: Top It Off
Sprinkle remaining crushed peppermint candy canes over the top while the bars are still warm so they stick nicely.
Step 6: Slice & Serve
Let them cool completely before slicing into squares. Transfer to plates or an elegant dessert tray; serve as a delightful treat at holiday parties or cozy family gatherings.
These heavenly Peppermint Gooey Bars will make everyone feel festive! Enjoy every gooey bite as you bask in those nostalgic memories while creating new ones with friends and family.
You Must Know
- These Peppermint Gooey Bars are the ultimate dessert that combines rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint.
- Easy to make, these bars are perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in.
- You can whip them up in no time and impress everyone with their deliciousness.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by melting the butter and chocolate together for a smooth base. While that cools, whisk your eggs and sugar until fluffy. Then mix everything together before adding your flour and peppermint extract for the final touch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chocolate chips for white chocolate or add nuts for an extra crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, try drizzling some caramel on top before serving for a sweet surprise.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Peppermint Gooey Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before indulging.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality chocolate for richer flavor, and don’t skip letting the melted mixture cool before adding eggs to avoid scrambling them.
- Make sure to line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
I remember making these Peppermint Gooey Bars for my family’s holiday party last year. The way they disappeared faster than I could blink still makes me chuckle!
FAQs :
What are Peppermint Gooey Bars?
Peppermint gooey bars are a delicious dessert that combines rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint flavors. These bars feature a soft, chewy texture with a chocolate base, often topped with a creamy peppermint frosting or glaze. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you crave something sweet and minty. The combination of chocolate and peppermint creates a delightful treat that is sure to please both kids and adults alike. For more inspiration, check out this boozy peppermint truffles recipe.
How do I store Peppermint Gooey Bars?
To keep your peppermint gooey bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you prefer to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them. When stored in the fridge, they can last up to two weeks. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving, as this will enhance their gooey texture and flavor.
Can I customize my Peppermint Gooey Bars?
Absolutely! You can easily customize peppermint gooey bars to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding crushed candy canes for extra crunch and flavor or swapping out the chocolate for white chocolate. decadent chocolate Snickers cake You could also experiment with different extracts, like vanilla or almond, to give your bars a unique twist. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe versatile and fun to make!
Are Peppermint Gooey Bars suitable for special diets?
Peppermint gooey bars can be adapted for various dietary needs. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free flour blends instead of all-purpose flour. If you need dairy-free alternatives, opt for plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips. chocolate chip cookies Always check the ingredients of any store-bought items like frosting or candy canes to ensure they align with your dietary requirements.
Conclusion for Peppermint Gooey Bars :
In summary, peppermint gooey bars offer a delightful blend of chocolate and mint that makes them a favorite dessert choice. With their chewy texture and customizable options, these bars are perfect for various occasions. Whether you enjoy them during the holidays or as an everyday treat, following the recipe ensures delicious results every time. Don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors and toppings to make this dessert uniquely yours!
Peppermint Gooey Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 16 bars 1x
Description
Peppermint Gooey Bars are a festive delight that perfectly combines rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint into a luscious treat. With a buttery crust, a gooey chocolate center, and a sprinkle of crunchy candy canes on top, these bars are sure to impress at any holiday gathering or cozy night in. Easy to make and utterly delicious, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds (and thirds) as you savor each homemade bite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candy canes
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a large bowl, beat together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually mix in flour and cocoa powder until combined. Press mixture into the prepared dish.
- In another bowl, mix sweetened condensed milk with half of the crushed peppermint. Pour over the crust and sprinkle chocolate chips on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until set but still soft in the center. Cool slightly before adding remaining crushed peppermint on top.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (50g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
