As a chill in the air reminds us that holiday season is just around the corner, I find myself yearning for a treat that embodies both comfort and joy. That’s when I discovered the delightful fusion of chocolate and peppermint in these Easy Peppermint Brownies. Imagine the first bite, where fudgy chocolate decadence meets the refreshing zing of peppermint—pure bliss!
These brownies are perfect for those moments when you need a quick dessert that impresses and satisfies. With minimal prep time and straightforward ingredients, they’ll become your go-to sweet fix, whether for cozy family gatherings or spontaneous get-togethers with friends. Plus, the vibrant green of crushed candy canes sprinkled on top adds a festive touch that elevates the simplest of occasions.
So, if you’re ready to ditch the fast-food cravings and indulge in home-baked happiness, let’s dive into the world of Easy Peppermint Brownies!
Why You'll Love This Easy Peppermint Brownies
- These Easy Peppermint Brownies are incredibly easy to whip up, making them a perfect last-minute dessert choice.
- The delightful combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a flavor explosion that will please any palate.
- Their stunning visual appeal, enhanced by the festive crushed candy canes on top, makes them a showstopper for any occasion.
- Ideal for both cozy family gatherings and casual get-togethers, these brownies are guaranteed to impress your guests and leave them coming back for more.
Easy Peppermint Brownies Ingredients
For the Brownies
• 1 cup unsalted butter – essential for a moist, fudgy texture that makes these brownies irresistible.
• 2 cups granulated sugar – adds sweetness and balances the rich chocolate flavor.
• 4 large eggs – binds the ingredients and gives the brownies a delightful chewiness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – provides structure and helps the brownies rise perfectly.
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – brings deep chocolate richness that harmonizes beautifully with peppermint.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – intensifies the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – ensures your brownies are light and fluffy.
For the Peppermint Topping
• 1 cup crushed candy canes – adds a crunchy texture and festive peppermint flavor, making these brownies truly special.
• 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips – melts beautifully on top for an extra layer of chocolatey goodness and richness.
• 2 tablespoons peppermint extract – infuses the brownies with a refreshing zing of flavor that’s irresistible.
With these easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll soon be on your way to creating a batch of Easy Peppermint Brownies that will become a holiday favorite!
How to Make Easy Peppermint Brownies
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Preheat: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies will bake evenly, resulting in that delicious fudgy texture we all love.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk them together until you have a smooth and glossy mixture.
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Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to create a lovely rich texture and incorporates air into the batter for a lighter finish.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. This step is essential for evenly distributing the dry ingredients.
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Blend Batters: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix! You want a thick, luscious batter that will make for fudgy brownies.
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Add Peppermint Extract: Gently fold in the peppermint extract for a refreshing burst of flavor. Don’t forget to savor the aroma as it adds a delightful holiday spirit to your brownie mix!
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Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, smoothing out the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
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Top with Chocolate and Candy Canes: Once cooled, melt the semisweet chocolate chips and spread them over the brownies. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top for a festive touch.
Optional: Drizzle with additional melted chocolate for extra indulgence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Easy Peppermint Brownies Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to these Easy Peppermint Brownies and make them uniquely yours!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy these fudgy treats without worry. The texture remains just as delightful!
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Nutty Twist: Incorporate 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a satisfying crunch. This adds a wonderful depth of flavor and texture.
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Mint Chocolate Chip: Swap some of the semisweet chocolate chips for mint chocolate chips. This enhances the peppermint flavor and gives a festive, minty explosion with every bite.
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Coffee Infusion: Add 1 tablespoon of instant espresso or coffee granules to the batter for a deeper chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with peppermint.
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Frosted Delight: After cooling, frost your brownies with a layer of cream cheese icing for a tangy sweetness that complements the chocolate and peppermint.
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Additional Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like drizzles of white chocolate or crushed Oreos for added texture and flavor variety.
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Vegan Option: Substitute ingredients with 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce for eggs, and use coconut oil instead of butter for a plant-based version that doesn’t skimp on taste.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the brownie batter for an unexpected spicy twist that balances the sweetness with heat.
Embrace your creativity and savor these variations to find your perfect match!
Make Ahead Options
Prepare your Easy Peppermint Brownies in advance for effortless holiday baking! You can make the brownie batter up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply prepare the batter according to the recipe, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. For best results, let the baked brownies cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply melt the semisweet chocolate chips and spread them on top, followed by the crushed candy canes for that festive finishing touch. This way, you’ll save time and still enjoy delicious, freshly topped brownies that are just as delightful!
What to Serve with Chicken Alfredo?
Transform your meal into an unforgettable feast with these delightful accompaniments.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy and fragrant, garlic bread complements the creamy Alfredo with a satisfying crunch and rich flavor. It’s perfect for soaking up every bit of that luscious sauce.
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Caesar Salad: A fresh, crisp Caesar salad adds a lively contrast to the rich pasta dish, balancing the flavors with its zesty dressing and crunchy croutons. The hint of parmesan ties it beautifully to the main course.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like asparagus or broccoli roasted to perfection provide a vibrant, nutritious element that enhances the overall dining experience. Their earthy flavors harmonize beautifully with the creamy sauces.
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutritional value, providing a wholesome side that pairs well with the indulgent chicken Alfredo.
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Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio brings out the creamy notes of the Alfredo sauce while cleansing the palate between bites, making for a refreshing dining experience.
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Lemon Sorbet: For a light and refreshing dessert, lemon sorbet offers a zesty finish that contrasts the richness of the Alfredo. It cleanses the palate and leaves you feeling satisfied without being overly full.
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Chocolate Mousses: Indulge in a light chocolate mousse for dessert to end the meal on a sweet note. Its airy texture and cocoa richness perfectly balance the creamy main dish.
With these delightful pairings, your chicken Alfredo meal will shine!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Peppermint Brownies
Room Temperature: Keep your Easy Peppermint Brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They’ll stay fresh and delicious, perfect for quick indulgences.
Fridge: For longer shelf life, store brownies in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezer: Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag to keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for a tasty treat anytime!
Reheating: Enjoy brownies warmed by microwaving for 10-15 seconds. The chocolate topping will melt slightly, enhancing the fudgy experience.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best results when making Easy Peppermint Brownies, ensure your butter is fully melted but not hot to prevent cooking the eggs when combined.
- A common mistake is overmixing the batter; gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined for a fudgy texture.
- Baking at the right temperature, 350°F, is crucial for even cooking and achieving that desirable moistness.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before adding the chocolate topping to avoid mess and achieve a neat finish.
Easy Peppermint Brownies Recipe FAQs
What kind of cocoa powder should I use?
I recommend using unsweetened cocoa powder for these Easy Peppermint Brownies, as it adds rich chocolate flavor without additional sugar. Look for a high-quality cocoa powder, preferably Dutch-processed, as it provides a smoother, deeper taste.
How should I store my brownies?
Keep your Easy Peppermint Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor experience!
Can I freeze these brownies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and enjoy that fudgy goodness!
What if my brownies come out too cake-like?
If your Easy Peppermint Brownies turn out cake-like, it might be due to overmixing the batter or baking too long. Remember, the goal is a fudgy texture, so mix just until combined and keep an eye on them in the oven. Start checking for doneness around 25 minutes, and aim for a toothpick that comes out with moist crumbs.
Are the brownies suitable for dietary restrictions?
These Easy Peppermint Brownies do contain dairy and eggs, making them unsuitable for those with lactose intolerance or egg allergies. However, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) for an egg-free version.
Easy Peppermint Brownies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Gently fold in peppermint extract.
- Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Once cooled, melt chocolate chips and spread over brownies; sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
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