Chaos Cake Peppermint Cookie Crumble (Printable)

Layers of chocolate cake, peppermint cream, and cookie crumble make for a rich, minty dessert bar.

# Components:

→ Chocolate Cake Base

01 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
04 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
06 - 1 cup granulated sugar
07 - 2 large eggs
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
09 - 1/2 cup whole milk

→ Peppermint Cream Layer

10 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
11 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
12 - 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
13 - 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
14 - 2 tablespoons heavy cream
15 - A few drops green food coloring (optional)

→ Cookie Crumble Topping

16 - 1 cup chocolate sandwich cookies, coarsely crushed
17 - 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips
18 - 1/4 cup peppermint candy, crushed

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring an overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
03 - In a separate large bowl, beat the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until combined. Incorporate the large eggs and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.
04 - Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the whole milk, until just combined to form the cake batter.
05 - Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center yields a few moist crumbs. Allow to cool completely within the pan.
06 - In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the mixture is fluffy. Stir in the peppermint extract, heavy cream, and green food coloring, if using.
07 - Spread the prepared peppermint cream evenly over the cooled cake base.
08 - In a bowl, combine the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, mini chocolate chips, and crushed peppermint candy. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the peppermint layer, pressing gently to adhere.
09 - Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares. Serve chilled.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Three distinct layers create an explosion of flavors and textures in every bite
  • Makes an impressive dessert that can be prepared ahead of time
  • Perfect balance of chocolate and peppermint that isn't overwhelming
  • Slices neatly for beautiful presentation at parties
02 -
  • The bars taste even better on day two when flavors have had time to meld
  • Can be made up to three days ahead for stress free entertaining
  • Perfect for holiday cookie exchanges despite technically being a bar

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