Save This festive peppermint chaos cookie brittle combines everything wonderful about holiday treats in one irresistible package. The contrast between the crunchy cookie base and the sweet marshmallow drizzle creates a perfect balance that makes these impossible to put down. Plus, the pops of peppermint flavor make them ideal for Christmas cookie exchanges or homemade gifts.
I created this recipe during a particularly chaotic holiday season when I needed something impressive but simple. My family devoured the first batch so quickly that I now make a double batch every December just to ensure there's enough for gifting.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour: provides the sturdy base for our brittle texture
- Baking soda: gives just enough lift without making it too cakey
- Unsalted butter: adds richness and helps create those crispy edges
- Brown sugar: brings depth and moisture to balance the crunch
- Mini chocolate chips: melt perfectly throughout the dough
- Crushed peppermint candies: provide festive flavor and color
- Mini pretzels: add a surprising salty crunch that balances the sweetness
- Mini marshmallows: create that signature gooey drizzle that sets this recipe apart
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet:
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper ensuring it extends slightly beyond the edges. This prevents any sticky edges from adhering to the pan and makes removal effortless after baking.
- Mix the dry ingredients:
- Thoroughly whisk the flour, baking soda and salt together until completely combined. This ensures even distribution of leavening and prevents any salty pockets in the finished brittle.
- Create the cookie base:
- Whisk melted butter with both sugars until the mixture looks glossy and the sugars begin to dissolve. Add the egg and vanilla, whisking until fully incorporated. The mixture should look smooth and slightly thickened.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures:
- Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and stir gently with a spatula just until no dry spots remain. Overmixing will develop gluten and make your brittle tough rather than crisp.
- Add the mix ins:
- Fold in the chocolate chips, crushed peppermint, pretzel pieces and optional nuts with just a few strokes. The beauty of this recipe is in its rustic appearance, so uneven distribution actually adds to its charm.
- Shape and bake:
- Press the dough into a large thin rectangle on the prepared baking sheet. Use slightly damp hands to prevent sticking as you spread it to approximately quarter inch thickness. The edges can be irregular for that homemade look.
- Create the chaos:
- While still warm from the oven, use a pizza cutter to slice the brittle into random, irregular shapes. This creates the signature chaotic appearance that gives this treat its name. Allow the pieces to cool completely without separating them.
- Make the marshmallow drizzle:
- Heat the marshmallows and milk in short microwave bursts, stirring between each until smooth and pourable. The mixture will be quite sticky, so work quickly as you drizzle it over the cooled brittle pieces.
Save The crushed peppermint candies are truly the star of this recipe. I discovered that using traditional candy canes creates beautiful red and white striped pockets throughout the brittle. One year when I ran out of candy canes, I substituted starlight mints and my children actually preferred the more intense peppermint flavor they provided.
Storage Tips
This cookie brittle actually improves after a day as the flavors meld together. Store pieces in an airtight container at room temperature with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. The brittle will stay fresh for up to a week, though the texture is best within the first four days.
For longer storage, freeze the brittle without the marshmallow drizzle. When ready to serve, thaw at room temperature and then add fresh marshmallow drizzle just before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
Peppermint extract can replace crushed candies if you prefer a smoother texture. Start with half teaspoon and adjust to taste.
White chocolate chips make a wonderful substitute for regular chocolate chips, especially if you want a more striking visual contrast with the red peppermint pieces.
For a dairy free version, use coconut oil instead of butter and dairy free chocolate chips. The texture will be slightly different but equally delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Package pieces in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbon for beautiful homemade gifts.
Serve alongside mugs of hot chocolate with candy cane stirrers for a complete holiday treat experience.
Crumble pieces over vanilla ice cream for an elevated dessert that combines warm and cool elements.
Seasonal Adaptations
Spring version replace peppermint with freeze dried strawberries and white chocolate
Summer version use lemon zest and dried blueberries for a fresh twist
Fall adaptation incorporate cinnamon chips and crushed gingersnaps for warming spice notes
Success Stories
Friends have reported that this brittle has become their signature holiday contribution at cookie exchanges. The unusual texture and appearance always generates conversation and recipe requests.
A colleague packaged this brittle as client gifts one year and received so many compliments that she now makes it annually as part of her business holiday tradition.
Save This recipe is a crowd pleaser and a great way to add some festive cheer to any occasion. Enjoy the delightful crunch and sweet marshmallowiness!