Peppermint Brownies
The aroma of baking peppermint brownies wafting through the house can instantly evoke warm memories and festive cheer. This recipe combines the rich flavor of chocolate with a refreshing hint of peppermint, making each bite a delightful experience. It’s not just about indulgence; these brownies bring a sense of nostalgia for many. Personally, I’ve made these for holiday gatherings and cozy family evenings, and they never fail to impress. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to wow your friends or a sweet treat for a quiet night in, these brownies are sure to do the trick.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why Make This Recipe
What makes these peppermint brownies stand out? For starters, they are incredibly moist and fudgy, thanks to a generous amount of chocolate and butter. They are quick to prepare, requiring minimal hands-on time, which makes them perfect for a last-minute dessert or a sweet surprise for spontaneous gatherings. Imagine the delight when you serve these to guests, topped with crushed peppermint candies that add a festive crunch.
“These brownies are the ultimate holiday treat! Rich, chocolaty, with just the right amount of peppermint. My family can’t get enough!” – A satisfied baker.
How to Make Peppermint Brownies
Baking these peppermint brownies is straightforward and enjoyable. The process begins with melting butter and mixing in your sugars before introducing the eggs and extracts. This results in a rich batter that is easy to blend with the dry ingredients. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a decadent dessert ready to bake.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Crushed peppermint candies (for topping)
Feel free to substitute the butter with margarine or coconut oil for different flavor profiles. For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix.
Directions
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 2
In a large bowl, melt the butter. Once melted, mix in the sugar until well combined.
Step 3
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract.
Step 4
In another bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just mixed together.
Step 5
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly to create a smooth top.
Step 7
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 8
Allow the brownies to cool completely before topping them with crushed peppermint candies. Cut into squares and serve.
How to Serve Peppermint Brownies
These peppermint brownies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the serving by pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Drizzling some chocolate sauce on top adds an extra touch of decadence. For a festive flair, consider garnishing with additional crushed peppermint candies for that holiday spirit.
How to Store
To keep your peppermint brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For extended storage, you can refrigerate them for about a week. If you wish to freeze them, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag, which will preserve their flavor for up to three months. Always ensure to allow them to thaw in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.
Tips to Make
- For an extra cocoa boost, sift in some additional cocoa powder on top of the batter before baking.
- Make sure to use fresh peppermint extract for the best flavor intensity; older extracts may lose potency.
Variations
Feel free to experiment! You can replace the chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a contrasting flavor. Additionally, adding some chopped nuts can introduce a delightful crunch. For a more adventurous twist, consider swirling in some raspberry puree to create a marbled effect.
Conclusion
These peppermint brownies are not only a feast for the palate but also a visual treat that everyone will love. The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint makes for a perfect match. I encourage you to enjoy this recipe, share your results, and make it a staple in your dessert repertoire.
FAQ
What is the prep time for peppermint brownies?
The total prep time is about 15-20 minutes, making it a quick and easy dessert option.
Can I swap the sugar for a sugar alternative?
Yes, you can use sugar substitutes. However, make sure to check the conversion ratio, as it can differ between brands.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter, indicating they are perfectly baked.
Print
Peppermint Brownies
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully rich and fudgy peppermint brownies topped with crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Crushed peppermint candies (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, melt the butter. Once melted, mix in the sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just mixed together.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly to create a smooth top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before topping them with crushed peppermint candies. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
For an extra cocoa boost, sift in some additional cocoa powder on top of the batter before baking. Use fresh peppermint extract for the best flavor intensity.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
