Peppermint Brownies

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the magic of the holidays, these Peppermint Brownies are just what you need! They bring together rich chocolate flavor with a refreshing peppermint twist, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, these brownies are sure to impress everyone at the table. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your loved ones.

The best part? You don’t need to be a baking expert to create these beauties. With just a few simple ingredients and quick steps, you’ll have fudgy layers topped with creamy mint frosting and sprinkled with crushed candy canes. Trust me, once you taste these Peppermint Brownies, they’ll become a cherished recipe in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe uses a boxed brownie mix, which means you can have delicious brownies ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of chocolate and peppermint.
• Make-Ahead Delight: These brownies chill beautifully, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time for parties or gatherings.
• Festive Touch: The crushed candy canes add not only flavor but also a cheerful look that brightens up any dessert table.
• Decadent Flavor: With layers of rich chocolate and minty goodness, every bite is pure bliss!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these Peppermint Brownies, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Brownies

• 1 (18.3-ounce) box fudge brownie mix, plus the ingredients on the back
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (divided)

For the Peppermint Frosting

• 2½ cups powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

For the Topping

• 1½ cups mini chocolate chips
• Crushed candy canes

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some variations you might enjoy trying out:

• Add Nuts: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and texture.
• Try Different Extracts: Swap out peppermint extract for almond or vanilla extract to give it a different flavor profile.
• Go Darker: Use dark chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips for an intense chocolate experience.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the brownie mix with a gluten-free version to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Peppermint Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures your brownies bake evenly and come out perfectly fudgy.

Step 2: Prepare Your Brownies

Line a 9×13 baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later. Then, prepare the brownie mix according to the package directions. Once mixed, pour it into your prepared pan and bake it for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to be soft and chewy!

Step 3: Make the Mint Frosting

While your brownies cool down, it’s time to whip up that creamy mint frosting! In a large bowl, beat together powdered sugar, ½ cup of softened butter, heavy whipping cream, and peppermint extract until smooth. This frosting is what makes these brownies truly special!

Step 4: Chill Out

Spread your fluffy mint frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Now comes the hardest part—waiting! Refrigerate them for about 30 minutes to let that frosting set nicely.

Step 5: Melt Chocolate Topping

In a small pot on low heat, melt down the remaining mini chocolate chips along with ½ cup of butter while stirring constantly. This creates a rich topping that adds another layer of indulgence.

Step 6: Finish with Candy Canes

Once melted, pour this luscious chocolate mixture over your chilled brownies. Finally, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for that festive crunch! If you’re eager for those brownies to set up faster, chill them again for another 30-60 minutes.

And there you have it! A batch of beautiful Peppermint Brownies ready to be enjoyed by all. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Brownies

Making these peppermint brownies is a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow your butter and eggs to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.

• Don’t overmix the brownie batter: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies instead of the desired fudgy texture.

• Chill between layers: After spreading the peppermint frosting, let the brownies chill in the fridge before adding the chocolate layer. This helps each layer set properly and makes for cleaner slices.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Try adding drizzles of white chocolate or sprinkles for extra flair and flavor.

• Cutting technique: For cleanly cut brownies, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water. Wipe it clean between cuts to keep those edges nice and neat!

How to Serve Peppermint Brownies

These peppermint brownies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or enjoying them as an everyday treat, presentation matters!

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and creamy contrast to the rich brownies.
• Chocolate drizzle: Drizzling melted dark chocolate over the top elevates both flavor and aesthetics, making your brownies look extra special.
• Fresh mint leaves: Adding a couple of fresh mint leaves on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also reinforces that refreshing peppermint flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream complements the rich chocolatey goodness of the brownies perfectly. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints!
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the brownies.
• Hot cocoa: Serve your brownies alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa for an indulgent dessert experience that’s sure to warm you up on chilly days.
• Coffee or tea: A nice cup of coffee or herbal tea can be a delightful addition, enhancing the flavors of the chocolate while providing a cozy pairing.

Enjoy creating these lovely peppermint brownies, and don’t forget to share them with friends and family—they’re sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

These peppermint brownies are not just delicious; they’re also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time for parties, holiday gatherings, or just to have a sweet treat on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Let frozen brownies thaw at room temperature before serving.
• If you prefer them warm, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Do you have questions about these delightful peppermint brownies? We’ve got answers!

Can I use a different extract instead of peppermint extract in my Peppermint Brownies?

Absolutely! While peppermint offers that classic holiday flavor, you can try almond extract or vanilla for a different twist. Just keep in mind that it will change the overall flavor profile of your brownies.

How do I make Peppermint Brownies from scratch?

To make peppermint brownies from scratch, you can create your favorite brownie batter using unsweetened cocoa powder, flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. Add peppermint extract to the batter to give it that signature flavor!

Can I use dairy-free alternatives in this recipe?

Yes! Substitute unsalted butter with a dairy-free butter alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream. This keeps your delicious peppermint brownies vegan-friendly!

What is the best way to crush candy canes for topping my Peppermint Brownies?

Place candy canes in a resealable plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or mallet. You can also pulse them briefly in a food processor for finer pieces.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking these delightful peppermint brownies! They are not just a treat but also a way to spread cheer during special occasions. Enjoy making this recipe and sharing it with friends and family. Remember, every bite is filled with love and warmth — happy baking!