Ingredients
Scale
- 2 3/4 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted Butter, softened
- 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 Large Egg
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (for the dough)
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar
- 1/2 cup Crushed Candy Canes
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla bean paste, and 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract until fully combined.
- Step 2: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour until a soft, uniform dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Step 3: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. Remove the bars from the oven and place the pan on a wire rack to cool completely before frosting (approximately 1-2 hours).
- Step 4: Prepare the frosting: In a clean bowl, beat 1/2 cup of softened butter with the powdered sugar, adding 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and 2-3 tablespoons of milk until the mixture is smooth, fluffy, and spreadable.
- Step 5: Once the sugar cookie bars are entirely cooled, use an offset spatula to spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the top layer.
- Step 6: Immediately sprinkle the 1/2 cup of crushed candy canes over the wet frosting. Allow the frosting to set slightly before slicing the bars into squares.
Notes
- Keep leftover bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, but allow them to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before eating to restore maximum softness.
- If the bars become too firm, you can gently soften a single serving by microwaving it for just 5 to 8 seconds, being careful not to overheat and melt the delicious peppermint frosting.
- Elevate this festive treat by serving a square alongside a mug of rich hot chocolate or a dollop of whipped cream garnished with extra crushed candy cane dust.
- For maximum crunch, do not crush the candy canes until the frosting is already spread, as exposure to air and moisture can cause the peppermint pieces to dissolve quickly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American