Indulge in the holiday spirit with these rich, fudgy Peppermint Brownies. Perfect for festive gatherings, holiday parties, or as a delightful homemade gift, these brownies combine the classic flavors of chocolate and peppermint into a beautifully decadent treat. The intense chocolate flavor is enhanced by a refreshing peppermint twist, making each bite a delightful experience. With a chewy texture and a glossy top, these brownies are sure to impress anyone who tries them!

Recipe Overview

These Peppermint Brownies are not just your average chocolate dessert; they feature a creamy peppermint frosting and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes that add a festive touch. Traditionally enjoyed during the winter holidays, these brownies are a celebration of flavors, perfect for Christmas parties, New Year’s gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a sweet indulgence. The flavor profile is a delightful blend of rich, sweet chocolate balanced with a hint of refreshing peppermint, while the texture is wonderfully fudgy with a creamy layer on top.

Prep and Cook Times

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Skill Level: Intermediate

Serving Information

Yields: 16 brownies (cut into 2-inch squares)
Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with extra crushed peppermint candy for added flair.

Ingredients List

For the Brownies:

1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing
2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
4 large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup (125g) all-purpose Flour
1 cup (85g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon Baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup (175g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon peppermint extract

For the Frosting:

1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
2-4 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
¼ cup (30g) crushed candy canes, for decoration

Notes on Substitutions:

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or dairy-free butter and almond milk for the frosting.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg).

Equipment List

Essential:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Whisk and spatula
- Electric mixer (hand or stand)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)
Optional:
- Food processor for finely crushing candy canes
- Sifter for powdered sugar (to prevent clumps)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 1 cup of butter. Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar until well combined.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Allow the butter mixture to cool slightly, then whisk in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in the chocolate chips and peppermint extract.
Bake the Brownies: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Cool the Brownies: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before frosting.
Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of heavy cream, and peppermint extract. Beat until light and fluffy, adding more cream if necessary to achieve your desired consistency.
Frost the Brownies: Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the peppermint frosting over the top using a spatula.
Add Finishing Touches: Sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the frosting for a festive touch.
Cut and Serve: Cut into 16 squares and serve. Enjoy the festive flavors!

Technique Tips and Troubleshooting

Fudgy Texture: Ensure you don’t overbake the brownies; they should remain soft in the center.
Creamy Frosting: If your frosting is too thick, gradually add more cream until you reach the desired consistency.
Crushing Candy Canes: Place candy canes in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin for even pieces.

Plating and Presentation

For a beautiful presentation, serve the brownies on a festive platter. You can arrange them in a grid pattern and dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Consider serving with a small bowl of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, and a sprig of mint for added color.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating: To enjoy warm brownies, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Variations and Customizations

Nutty Brownies: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture.
Chocolate Swirls: Swirl in some melted white chocolate or peanut butter before baking for a unique flavor.
Different Extracts: Experiment with different extracts such as almond or vanilla for varied flavors.

Notes on Ingredients and Equipment

Butter Quality: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
Peppermint Extract: Choose pure peppermint extract for a stronger flavor; avoid imitation extracts if possible.
Baking Pan: A metal pan yields a slightly crisper edge, while a glass pan may require longer baking time.

Final Touches and Personal Notes

These Peppermint Brownies hold a special place in my heart as they have been a holiday tradition in my family for years. I love how they bring everyone together during the festive season. Feel free to experiment with the recipe and make it your own—whether it’s adjusting the mintiness or adding your favorite toppings, the possibilities are endless! If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Happy baking!