Sweet Baked Life

Just in time for the holidays — these Peppermint Bark Blondies are festive and comforting!

If you need a little nudge to get into the holiday spirit, now is the time to whip up a batch of these delightful Peppermint Bark Blondies. For me, these are the perfect treat to bake over the holidays. They smell divine, are super easy to make and the outcome is irresistible.

These blondies have a moist, buttery base with the unforgettably delicious flavors of peppermint and chocolate sprinkled throughout. Your traditional blondies will be elevated to a whole new level with this recipe! And not only that, but your home will smell divine as the wonderful aroma of freshly baked sweets creeps out of your oven and Christmastime memories will ooze from each and every bite.

Just the thought of rich, creamy chocolate and strong, zesty peppermint makes me tingle. This combination really gets me in the mood for Christmas. There is just something about these two flavors that makes me want to snuggle up next to the fire with a mug of hot chocolate and a plate of these Peppermint Bark Blondies.

Even better, leave these sweet morsels out for the jolly old guy and he will keep you on the “nice” list forever! All you have to do is believe! Well, that is what I keep telling my 13-year old!

Peppermint Bark Blondies

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 package (7 oz) Ghirardelli Peppermint Bark Squares, chopped

Heat your oven to 350 degrees and prepare a 13×9-inch pan with cooking spray.

In a medium bowl combine the flour, baking powder and salt and set aside.

In a large bowl of an electric mixer, using a paddle attachment, add the butter and sugars and mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until well combined.  Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.  Then add the vanilla and mix thoroughly.

With the mixer on low-speed, slowly add the flour mixture until just combined.  Please note the dough will be thick.  Remove bowl from mixer and add the chopped Peppermint Bark. Stir with a spoon until combined.

Spoon the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula.

Bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.  Be careful not to over bake. Cool on a rack. Cut into squares and serve or room temperature. Yields about 20 blondies.

Hey — be sure to make a double batch of these addicting Peppermint Bark Blondies so you’ll have enough for holiday visitors and especially for the guy in the red suit!