Chocolate Peppermint Shortbread Wedges

Buttery, tender shortbread wedges infused with cool peppermint and drizzled with rich chocolate—a festive treat perfect for the holidays.

I made these wedges for our annual cookie swap and they were gone in minutes. The chocolate drizzle adds a fun, decadent touch that everyone loves.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: 1 cup (225 g), softened
• Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup (100 g)
• Peppermint extract: 1/2 teaspoon
• All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g)
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
• Semi-sweet chocolate: 3 oz (85 g), chopped
• Coconut oil or vegetable oil: 1 teaspoon
• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes: 2 tablespoons

Instructions

Prepare Pan:

Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Cream Butter and Sugar:

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the peppermint extract.

Make Dough:

Add flour and salt, mixing until combined and a soft dough forms.

Press and Prick:

Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Use a fork to prick evenly over the surface.

Bake:

Bake for 23–25 minutes, or until lightly golden at the edges. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

Slice:

While still warm, cut into 8 wedges using a sharp knife. Let cool completely in the pan.

Make Chocolate Topping:

Melt chocolate and oil together in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second bursts, stirring until smooth.

Decorate:

Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled shortbread wedges and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.

Set:

Let set until chocolate is firm before serving.

Pin Recipe

My kids love helping to drizzle chocolate and sprinkle candy pieces on these wedges each holiday season. It's a simple recipe that creates special memories.

Required Tools

Large mixing bowl, hand mixer or stand mixer, 9-inch round cake pan, parchment paper, microwave-safe bowl, sharp knife

Allergen Information

Contains wheat (gluten), dairy, and possibly soy. May contain traces of nuts and other allergens; check ingredient labels.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 330 calories, 20 g total fat, 35 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein

Pin Recipe

These wedges are perfect for gifting or sharing at holiday parties. Enjoy with cocoa for a cozy treat!

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I achieve a tender shortbread texture?

Use softened unsalted butter and avoid overmixing the dough to keep the texture tender and crumbly.

→ Can I substitute peppermint extract with another flavor?

Yes, vanilla or almond extracts work well but will change the flavor profile slightly from minty to more neutral or nutty.

→ What is the best way to melt the chocolate topping?

Microwave the chocolate with a small amount of coconut or vegetable oil in short bursts, stirring frequently to ensure a smooth consistency.

→ How should these wedges be stored for freshness?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispness, best consumed within one week.

→ Can white chocolate be used instead?

Yes, white chocolate offers a sweeter, creamier contrast and can be drizzled or melted similarly to semi-sweet chocolate.