Indulging in festive sweets brings joy, especially when your treat is a luscious batch of Festive Peppermint Brownies. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in, these brownies feature an irresistible blend of chocolate and peppermint that will have everyone asking for seconds. The rich, fudgy texture paired with a creamy frosting and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy makes this dessert stand out during the festive season.
Why Make This Recipe
You’ll love these Festive Peppermint Brownies for many reasons. They’re quick to whip up, budget-friendly, and delightfully kid-approved! The marriage of chocolate and peppermint adds a seasonal touch that transforms these brownies into a true treat for the holidays. Plus, the process is simple, making them an ideal choice for bakers of all skill levels.
"These brownies are a holiday tradition in our family! The peppermint is perfectly balanced with the rich chocolate. So easy and always a hit!" – Happy Baker
Imagine enjoying these delightful desserts at holiday parties, family gatherings, or even as a sweet gift for friends. They’re not just brownies; they are an experience that brings smiles and warmth to every table.
Preparing Festive Peppermint Brownies Everyone Will Love
This recipe is straightforward and prepares in several easy steps, ensuring a fun baking experience. You begin by mixing the wet ingredients, then combine them with the dry ingredients before baking them to perfection. After letting them cool, a simple yet delicious frosting takes these brownies to the next level. Let’s dive into how to create your delectable festive treats!
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to make your brownies:
- ½ cup salted butter (melted)
- ¾ + 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
- ¾ tsp peppermint extract
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- ¾ tsp espresso powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ cup chocolate chips or chunks
- ¼ cup salted butter (melted) – for frosting
- ½ cup cocoa powder – for frosting
- 2 ⅓ cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 2-3 tablespoons whole milk
- Crushed peppermint candy (for decoration)
Feel free to experiment with substitute ingredients, such as using unsweetened applesauce for the butter in the brownies or gluten-free flour if you need a gluten-free version.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt the salted butter and stir it into the light brown sugar until glossy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, and then add the peppermint extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder (if using), cornstarch, and baking powder. Fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until no flour streaks remain.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips, reserving some for the top.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for about 30 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Once cooled, prepare the frosting by mixing together the melted butter, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth. Spread over the brownies.
- Finish with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these Festive Peppermint Brownies in delightful squares alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They make a wonderful addition to a holiday dessert table, paired with hot cocoa or peppermint tea. Consider even packaging some as gifts, adorned with a festive ribbon, to spread the holiday cheer!
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or a zip-top bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mix gently until just combined to avoid tough brownies.
- Customize the Toppings: Try adding different toppings like white chocolate chips, or swirling in some peanut butter to change things up.
- Testing for Doneness: Remember that the toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs for the ideal fudgy brownie texture.
Creative Twists
There are several variations you can explore to put your personal spin on these festive brownies. Consider adding crushed Oreos to the batter for a cookies-and-cream twist or swap out the peppermint extract for orange or almond extract for a refreshing change. You can even bake them into bite-sized brownie bites to make them easy to serve at parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long do these brownies take to make?
From start to finish, you can expect to spend about 40-45 minutes. This includes prep and baking time.
2. Can I make these brownies without eggs?
Absolutely! You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or 1/2 a mashed banana for a vegan-friendly option.
3. How can I ensure my brownies are fudgy?
Be sure not to overbake them. Checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark is key; they should look slightly underbaked when you take them out.
Enjoy your baking adventure and these delightful, festive brownies that are sure to impress your family and friends! For more yummy dessert inspiration, check out our cottage cheese chocolate mousse or banana cottage cheese pancakes.
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Meta Description: Whip up these Festive Peppermint Brownies – a cozy blend of chocolate and mint that’s perfect for the holidays, guaranteed to impress everyone!
Festive Peppermint Brownies
Ingredients
Brownie Ingredients
- ½ cup salted butter (melted)
- ¾ + 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs (at room temperature) Ensure they are at room temperature
- ¾ tsp peppermint extract
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- ¾ tsp espresso powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ cup chocolate chips or chunks Reserve some for topping
Frosting Ingredients
- ¼ cup salted butter (melted)
- ½ cup cocoa powder For frosting
- 2 ⅓ cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 2-3 tablespoons whole milk
Decoration
- Crushed peppermint candy For decoration
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt the salted butter and stir it into the light brown sugar until glossy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, and then add the peppermint extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder (if using), cornstarch, and baking powder. Fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until no flour streaks remain.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips, reserving some for the top.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Baking
- Bake for about 30 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Frosting
- Once cooled, prepare the frosting by mixing together the melted butter, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth. Spread over the brownies.
- Finish with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy before serving.