The Easiest Ever Peppermint Brownies

The Easiest Ever Peppermint Brownies are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the festive spirit of the holidays. Rich, chocolaty brownies topped with a burst of refreshing peppermint are ideal for gatherings, cozy family nights, or just satisfying your sweet tooth. I remember making these with my kids, and the excitement when they saw the vibrant red and white peppermint on top was infectious. This recipe brings together family moments and delicious flavors in the easiest way possible.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of these peppermint brownies. For starters, they are incredibly simple to make, ensuring that even novice bakers can achieve that satisfying dessert without a hitch. The combination of rich chocolate and cool peppermint is a match made in heaven, making it a fantastic choice for holiday parties or special occasions. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake will leave everyone anticipating the delicious results.

"This cake disappeared in minutes at our family gathering, definitely a keeper," says a happy home baker.

Families are sure to love how quickly these brownies come together. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, it’s perfect for those last-minute dessert needs or when friends drop by unexpectedly.

How to Make The Easiest Ever Peppermint Brownies

Making these brownies is a seamless process. Start by melting the butter in a saucepan, then mix in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until combined. After whisking in the dry ingredients, pour your batter into a greased baking dish. The final touch comes with a sprinkle of chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies on top before they bake to perfection. The result is a fudgy, delightful brownie that’s easy to cut into squares once cool.

Ingredients

What you’ll need

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup crushed peppermint candies or peppermint extract for flavoring

If you’re looking for a lighter twist, consider substituting some of the butter with applesauce. For a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free flour blend. Remember, you can also adjust the peppermint intensity by using peppermint extract based on your family’s preferences.

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
3. Beat in flour, cocoa, and salt. Spread batter into the prepared baking dish.
4. Sprinkle chocolate chips and crushed peppermint over the top.
5. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Do not overcook; a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.
6. Let cool before cutting into squares and serve.

How to Serve The Easiest Ever Peppermint Brownies

These brownies are best enjoyed on their own, but there are plenty of fun ways to make them even more special. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side makes a delicious pairing, as the coolness beautifully contrasts with the brownie’s rich, warm flavor. You could also drizzle some chocolate sauce on top or add extra crushed peppermint for an enticing presentation. For a festive touch, serve them on a holiday-themed platter or sprinkle some powdered sugar on top before serving.

How to Store

To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated for about a week. For longer storage, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, a quick reheat in the microwave for a few seconds will bring back their delightful fudginess.

Tips to Make

Here are a few helpful tips to elevate your peppermint brownie-making experience. First, make sure not to overmix the batter; this can lead to denser brownies. Also, if you love a stronger peppermint flavor, you can replace some of the vanilla extract with peppermint extract, but be careful not to overpower the chocolate! Finally, allow the brownies to cool in the pan for better cuts; removing them too soon can lead to a messy situation.

Variations

There are many creative twists you can try with these brownies! Incorporate a layer of cream cheese frosting for added richness, or consider switching the toppings to include nuts or M&M’s for a colorful kick. You could also transform them into a mint chocolate cookie dough version by adding chocolate chips and crushed candies straight into the batter—perfect for those who crave a cookie-like texture.

FAQs

What is the best way to cut brownies?
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them with a sharp knife. For cleaner cuts, you can warm the knife a little under hot water.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder?
Absolutely! Just melt the dark chocolate and replace it with the cocoa powder in the recipe, adjusting the sugar as needed.

How long will these brownies last?
If stored properly in an airtight container, they will stay fresh for about four days at room temperature or a week in the fridge.

Can I use different types of candy?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different candies that you enjoy, such as crushed Oreos or Reese’s Pieces, to give the brownies a unique twist!

For More Recipe Inspiration

If you’re excited about baking, check out our delicious Mini Bento Cake Recipe or try out some tasty Protein Muffins for a wholesome treat. Each recipe brings a unique flavor and fun to your family gathering.

Don’t forget to visit us on Pinterest for even more delicious ideas and inspiration:
https://www.pinterest.com/quickcakes/

Emily

Peppermint Brownies

These rich, chocolaty brownies topped with peppermint are ideal for the holidays, family gatherings, or satisfying your sweet tooth.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Holiday

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Brownie Batter

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Toppings

• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup crushed peppermint candies or peppermint extract for flavoring

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
3. Beat in flour, cocoa, and salt until combined.
4. Spread the batter into the prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle chocolate chips and crushed peppermint over the top.

Baking

1. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Do not overcook; a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Cooling and Serving

1. Let cool before cutting into squares and serve.

Notes

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. They can be refrigerated for about a week or frozen for up to three months. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.