Sugar Cookie Bark
If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavor of sugar cookies with the crunch of bark, then this Sugar Cookie Bark is just what you need! It’s an easy, semi-homemade recipe that will impress friends and family alike. With minimal effort, you’ll create a sweet, colorful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is perfect for those who love the flavor of freshly baked sugar cookies but need a faster way to whip up a batch of goodies. Let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe!
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
This Sugar Cookie Bark deserves a spot in your dessert rotation for several reasons:
– **Quick Preparation**: With a sugar cookie mix as the base, you can whip this treat up in no time.
– **Versatile Flavors**: Customize the bark with your choice of sprinkles or toppings to match any holiday or celebration.
– **Great for Gifting**: This bark makes for a beautiful and tasty gift that’s sure to delight anyone who receives it.
– **Fun for All Ages**: This recipe is a fun activity to do with kids or friends, making it a perfect addition to any gathering.
Ingredient Breakdown
Before we get started, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need to create this delightful Sugar Cookie Bark:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sugar cookie base.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookie mixture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the bark with a warm, comforting flavor.
- 1 tablespoon milk: A substitute for egg, keeping the mix moist and tender.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the sugar cookies.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
- 16 ounces white chocolate candy melts: The creamy coating that takes this bark to the next level.
- Sprinkles: For that festive touch and crunch!
Gear Up: What to Grab
Before you start baking, gather the following kitchen essentials:
- Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
- Whisk: To mix the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Baking sheet: To spread the cookie dough and later the melted chocolate.
- Parchment paper: To line the baking sheet for easy removal and cleanup.
- Microwave-safe bowl: For melting the white chocolate.
- Spatula: To spread the melted chocolate and to help with mixing.
Sugar Cookie Bark in Steps
Creating this Sugar Cookie Bark is a breeze! Follow these simple steps for delicious results:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it’s evenly covered.
Step 2: Make the Sugar Cookie Base
In a mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Use a whisk to mix them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract and milk, mixing until well combined.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture. Stir until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 4: Spread on the Baking Sheet
Transfer the cookie dough to the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it out into an even layer, making sure it reaches the edges of the pan.
Step 5: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
Step 6: Melt the White Chocolate
While the cookie base is cooling, melt the white chocolate candy melts. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.
Step 7: Assemble the Bark
Once the cookie base is cool, pour the melted white chocolate over the top. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface. Immediately sprinkle your choice of sprinkles on top while the chocolate is still warm.
Step 8: Set and Cut
Allow the Sugar Cookie Bark to set at room temperature or in the fridge for about 30 minutes until the chocolate is firm. Once set, break it into pieces or cut it into squares.
Holiday & Seasonal Touches
Want to make your Sugar Cookie Bark even more festive? Here are some fun ideas:
- Use red and green sprinkles for Christmas.
- Add pastel-colored sprinkles for Easter.
- Incorporate themed sprinkles for birthdays or special occasions.
- Drizzle with colored chocolate melts for added flair.
Slip-Ups to Skip
To ensure your Sugar Cookie Bark turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t skip lining the baking sheet with parchment paper; it helps with easy removal.
- Be cautious with the baking time; underbaking can lead to a doughy texture, while overbaking can make the bark too hard.
- Let the cookie base cool completely before adding the melted chocolate to avoid melting it.
- Use good-quality chocolate melts for the best flavor and texture.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
Leftover Sugar Cookie Bark? No problem! Here’s how to store and enjoy your treats later:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to two weeks.
- You can also freeze the bark; just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Thaw before serving.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I use a different type of chocolate for the bark?
Absolutely! While white chocolate provides a sweet contrast to the sugar cookie flavor, you can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate if you prefer. Just keep an eye on melting times, as different chocolates have varying melting points.
Can I add mix-ins to the cookie base?
Yes! Feel free to incorporate chocolate chips, nuts, or even crushed candy canes into the cookie base for an extra special touch.
What if I don’t have candy melts?
If you can’t find candy melts, you can use chocolate chips. Just be aware that they may not spread as smoothly as candy melts, so you might want to add a teaspoon of coconut oil to help with melting and spreading.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Sugar Cookie Bark, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.
The Last Word
This Sugar Cookie Bark is the perfect combination of simplicity and deliciousness. With its sweet cookie base and creamy chocolate topping, it’s bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or just a cozy night in, this treat is sure to bring joy to those who indulge. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy every delicious bite of this delightful creation!
Sugar Cookie Bark
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat and Prepare - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Make the Sugar Cookie Base - In a mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Whisk until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and milk, mixing until well combined.
- Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients - Gradually add all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Step 4: Spread on the Baking Sheet - Transfer the cookie dough to the prepared baking sheet. Spread into an even layer.
- Step 5: Bake - Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
- Step 6: Melt the White Chocolate - Melt the white chocolate candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals until smooth.
- Step 7: Assemble the Bark - Pour the melted white chocolate over the cooled cookie base. Spread evenly and sprinkle with your choice of sprinkles.
- Step 8: Set and Cut - Allow to set at room temperature or in the fridge for about 30 minutes until firm. Break or cut into pieces.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- You can freeze the bark; just ensure it’s well-wrapped.
- Customize with different sprinkles for various occasions.
