Peppermint Stick Bars
Creamy peppermint chocolate bars with a crunchy candy cane topping, perfect for festive occasions or as a sweet treat for chocolate and peppermint lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, softened butter or margarine, egg yolk, and vanilla until well combined.
- Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate pieces.
- Spread the batter evenly in an ungreased 15 x 10-inch pan.
- Beat the egg white until frothy and brush it over the top of the bars.
- Sprinkle crushed peppermint candy canes evenly over the bars.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly, then cut into approximately 40 bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can also substitute the semi-sweet chocolate pieces with dark chocolate if you prefer a deeper chocolate taste. If you're out of peppermint candy canes, crushed peppermint extract can be used instead, but adjust to taste. Ensure the butter is softened to mix easily; if it's too hard, it won't blend well.
Serving Suggestions
These peppermint stick bars make a delightful treat for holiday gatherings or as a sweet addition to a dessert table. They pair beautifully with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee. For a festive touch, serve alongside a slice of Cranberry Loaf Cake for a delightful dessert spread. They are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a sweet snack.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover peppermint stick bars, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, which will help maintain their freshness. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply microwave a bar for about 10-15 seconds to soften it slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peppermint Stick Bars contains roughly 127 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 7g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that is suitable for baking, as this will help achieve the right texture in the bars. Also, check that your chocolate and peppermint candy canes are gluten-free.
What if I don't have peppermint candy canes?
If you don't have peppermint candy canes, you can use crushed peppermint candies or even a few drops of peppermint extract. Just be cautious with the extract, as it is more concentrated; start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
Can I freeze these peppermint stick bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or microwave a piece for a quick treat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).