Meta Description: Indulge in festive Peppermint Bark Brownies, a delightful blend of rich chocolate and crunchy peppermint, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Imagine the bliss of biting into a warm, fudgy brownie that bursts with captivating flavors of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint. Peppermint Bark Brownies are not just another dessert; they are a celebration of the holiday spirit that everyone loves. These delicious treats are perfect for festive gatherings or cozy nights by the fireplace, where every bite feels like a warm hug.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What makes peppermint bark brownies so special? They combine the rich, velvety texture of traditional brownies with the seasonal zing of peppermint candies. These brownies are easy to make and will delight both kids and adults alike. They are an ideal addition to holiday dessert tables, gift exchanges, or just a well-deserved treat after a long day.
“These are the most decadent brownies I’ve ever made! The peppermint twist takes them to another level. Will definitely be a holiday tradition!”
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just looking for a sweet escape, these brownies are sure to impress. They are quick to prepare and promise to fill your kitchen with a heavenly aroma that will have everyone eagerly awaiting the first bite.
Step-by-Step Overview
Preparing peppermint bark brownies is a straightforward process. You will start by creaming together the butter and sugar, followed by adding eggs and vanilla. Next, you’ll whisk together the dry ingredients before combining them into the rich batter. Finally, fold in those delightful chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies before baking.
Patience is key while they bake, but once you take them out, the real excitement begins. Let’s dive into what you will need to create this decadent dessert.
Gather These Items
For these heavenly peppermint bark brownies, you will need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candies
If you’re looking for substitutions, feel free to experiment with gluten-free flour or dairy-free butter for a different twist.
Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These peppermint bark brownies are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. They can be enjoyed warm straight from the oven, or cooled and served with a dollop of whipped cream on top. For an added treat, consider drizzling melted chocolate or white chocolate over the brownies to create a striking presentation.
Pair your brownies with a steaming cup of hot cocoa or coffee for a perfect holiday treat. For a twist, serve them alongside vanilla ice cream topped with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint for extra indulgence.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storing your peppermint bark brownies properly ensures they stay soft and delicious for days. Allow them to cool completely, then cut them into squares and place them in an airtight container. They will keep well at room temperature for up to 4-5 days.
If you want to extend their life, freeze the brownies in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds.
Practical Cooking Tips
Here are a few extra tips to ensure your peppermint bark brownies turn out delicious every time:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dry and wet ingredients until just combined to keep your brownies fudgy.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if they are done; you want some moist crumbs, not batter.
- Chill Your Candies: If the peppermint candies are very soft, chill them briefly before crushing to create a better texture.
Recipe Variations
Feeling adventurous? There are plenty of ways to customize your peppermint bark brownies:
- Add Nuts: Incorporate walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Flavored Extracts: Try replacing vanilla extract with almond or mint extract for a different flavor profile.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Add dollops of peanut butter on top before baking for an interesting twist.
FAQs
How long do these brownies take to prepare?
The total prep time is around 15 minutes, with about 25-30 minutes of baking.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can use dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips to suit your taste.
How do I store extra brownies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 4-5 days or freeze for longer storage.
What if I don’t have peppermint candies?
You can substitute crushed candy canes or use peppermint extract in the batter for flavor.
After you’ve made these delightful peppermint bark brownies, don’t forget to share your creations! For more delicious recipes, check out our other articles like Protein Muffins and Banana Cottage Cheese Pancakes.
For daily inspiration, follow us on Pinterest and Facebook. Enjoy your baking!
Peppermint Bark Brownies
Ingredients
For the Brownies
- 1 cup unsalted butter Softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs At room temperature
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.25 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candies
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.