Heavenly Peppermint Brownies Recipe for Sweet Holiday Magic

Chocolate and peppermint dance together in these decadent peppermint brownies that promise pure indulgence.

Rich, fudgy layers melt perfectly with cool mint undertones.

The intense chocolate base welcomes a refreshing peppermint twist that turns an ordinary dessert into something extraordinary.

Festive and elegant, these brownies bring a delightful surprise to any gathering.

Crushed candy canes add a delicate crunch that complements the smooth chocolate texture.

Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of sweet and minty flavors that will leave you craving more.

Prepare to be enchanted by this irresistible seasonal treat.

Peppermint Brownies Storage Solutions

• Store these delightful treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, keeping them fresh and moist.
• Wrap individual brownies or the entire batch tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months for a make-ahead dessert option.
• Keep brownies in a sealed container at room temperature for 2-3 days, ensuring they remain soft and delicious.
• Place a piece of bread in the container to help maintain moisture and prevent the brownies from becoming too dry.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of extract instead of peppermint?

Yes, you can substitute peppermint extract with other flavors like vanilla or almond extract. However, this will change the classic peppermint taste of the brownies.

• How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?

Check the brownies at 20 minutes. They’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep them fudgy and soft.

• Do I need special equipment to make these brownies?

No, you just need basic baking tools like a mixing bowl, whisk, 8×8 baking pan, and an oven. Parchment paper helps with easy removal, but isn’t absolutely necessary.

Peppermint Brownies: What to Love

• Whip Up a Festive Delight: These peppermint brownies bring holiday cheer right to your kitchen, offering a perfect blend of rich chocolate and refreshing mint flavors.
• Customize with Ease: The recipe allows for simple personalization, from adding food coloring to decorating with candy cane crumbles, making it a fun baking experience for all skill levels.
• Quick and Crowd-Pleasing: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps mean you can create a show-stopping dessert that will impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile Celebration Treat: Perfect for holiday gatherings, winter parties, or a cozy weekend dessert that transforms a classic brownie into a seasonal sensation.

Peppermint Brownies Ingredient Essentials

• Butter: A rich and creamy ingredient that provides moisture and helps bind the brownie batter together.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the soft texture of the brownies.
• Eggs: Help to bind the ingredients and create a smooth, cohesive batter.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the brownies.

• Cocoa Powder: Provides the rich chocolate flavor and dark color to the brownies.
• All-Purpose Flour: Gives structure and helps create the classic brownie texture.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.

• Butter, Powdered Sugar: Form the creamy base of the peppermint frosting.
• Milk, Peppermint Extract: Add moisture and create the signature peppermint flavor.
• Red Food Coloring: Provides an optional light pink color to the frosting.

• Candy Canes: Add a festive crunch and extra peppermint flavor to the finished brownies.

Making Peppermint Brownies Easily

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Create a perfect baking environment by lining an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, ensuring extra paper hangs over the edges for easy brownie removal.

Step 2: Create Rich Chocolate Base

Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl.

Whisk in sugar until smooth.

Add eggs one at a time, stirring thoroughly after each addition.

Incorporate vanilla extract.

• Cocoa powder
• All-purpose flour
• Salt

Mix until ingredients are just combined, avoiding overmixing.

Step 3: Bake Chocolatey Goodness

Transfer batter to prepared pan, spreading evenly.

Bake for 20-25 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should have a few moist crumbs.

Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan.

Step 4: Whip Up Peppermint Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat softened butter until creamy and light.

Gradually incorporate powdered sugar.

Add milk and peppermint extract, mixing until frosting becomes smooth and fluffy.

Optional: Add a few drops of red food coloring to create a soft pink hue.

Step 5: Decorate and Serve

Generously spread peppermint frosting over cooled brownies.

Create a beautiful marbled effect by swirling with a knife.

Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a festive touch.

Slice into squares and serve.

Tips for Perfect Peppermint Brownies

• Line the baking pan with parchment paper, letting it hang over the edges for easy brownie removal and clean cutting.
• Check brownies at 20 minutes with a toothpick; remove when a few moist crumbs remain to ensure a fudgy, soft texture.
• Use pure peppermint extract for a clean, crisp mint taste instead of artificial flavoring.
• Crush candy canes coarsely for a festive topping that adds delightful crunch and extra peppermint punch.
• Beat butter until creamy before adding powdered sugar to prevent lumps and create a silky, spreadable consistency.

Peppermint Brownies Variations to Try

• Gluten-Free Peppermint Brownies: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.
• Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Brownies: Swap butter with coconut oil, eggs with flax eggs, and use dairy-free chocolate. Add vegan peppermint frosting using plant-based butter.
• Dark Chocolate Mint Brownies: Use dark chocolate cocoa powder for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor. Add extra peppermint extract for a stronger mint taste.
• Low-Sugar Peppermint Brownies: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Use sugar-free chocolate and reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting.

Serving Peppermint Brownies with Style

• Holiday Dessert Platter: Create a festive display by arranging these peppermint brownies alongside other seasonal treats like gingerbread cookies and sugar cookies for a stunning Christmas dessert spread.
• Chocolate Pairings: Serve with a warm mug of hot chocolate or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to complement the rich chocolate and cool peppermint flavors.
• Gifting Idea: Package individual brownie squares in clear cellophane bags tied with red and white ribbons for a delightful homemade holiday gift that's sure to impress friends and family.
• After-Dinner Delight: Offer these brownies as a decadent dessert following a cozy winter meal, perfect for ending the evening on a sweet and minty note.

Peppermint Brownies Recipe

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4.7 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Indulgent peppermint brownies bring festive chocolate magic to holiday dessert tables. Rich fudgy layers meld classic brownie depth with cool mint notes, offering sweet seasonal comfort that delights chocolate and peppermint enthusiasts alike.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder

Frosting Ingredients:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1–2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2–3 drops red food coloring (optional)

Topping Ingredient:

• 1/4 cup crushed candy canes

Additional Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Prepare the baking vessel by preheating the oven to 350°F and lining an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, ensuring edges extend for easy brownie removal.
2. Create the chocolate base by melting butter in a microwave-safe bowl, then whisking in sugar until thoroughly incorporated. Integrate eggs individually, followed by vanilla extract, then gently fold in cocoa powder, flour, and salt until just combined.
3. Transfer the batter into the prepared pan, distributing evenly across the surface. Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick that should emerge with a few moist crumbs. Allow brownies to cool completely within the pan.
4. Craft the peppermint topping by whipping softened butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar, then blend in milk and peppermint extract until the mixture reaches a silky consistency. Optional: add red food coloring to achieve a delicate pink hue.
5. Adorn the cooled brownies by spreading the peppermint frosting across the surface, creating artistic swirls with a knife. Garnish with crushed candy canes for a festive touch, then slice into individual squares and serve.

Notes

• Adjust butter temperature for better mixing by letting it cool slightly after melting to prevent scrambling eggs.
• Avoid overmixing the brownie batter to keep the texture fudgy and prevent tough, dense brownies.
• Enhance peppermint flavor by using high-quality extract and adding a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.
• Control frosting consistency by adding powdered sugar or milk gradually to achieve the perfect spreadable texture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 100 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg