Chocolate-Peppermint Shortbread Bars

Name: Chocolate-Peppermint Shortbread Bars
Ingredients: 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup (1/2 lb.) plus 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature; 2 ounces unsweetened chocolate, melted (see notes); 2 tablespoons finely crushed peppermint candy

8 ingredients

5 steps

Ingredients

1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup (1/2 lb.) plus 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 ounces unsweetened chocolate, melted (see notes)
2 tablespoons finely crushed peppermint candy

Directions

1

In a food processor or bowl, whirl or stir flour, cocoa powder, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and the brown sugar and salt until well combined. Cut 1 cup butter into 1-inch slices; add to flour mixture and whirl or rub in with your fingers until mixture is blended and crumbly.
2

Scatter dough evenly in a 10- by 15-inch rimmed baking pan. With your palm, pat dough to cover pan bottom. Bake in a 300° oven until slightly firm and dry to the touch, 30 to 35 minutes. Let cool completely on a rack.
3

In a bowl, beat melted chocolate, remaining 2 tablespoons butter, remaining 2 cups powdered sugar, and 3 tablespoons hot water until smooth. Spread evenly over shortbread.
4

Cut into 1- by 2-inch bars; sprinkle with crushed candy.
5

Note: Nutritional analysis is per bar.