Peppermint Brownies Recipe: Festive & Easy Holiday Treat

Peppermint Brownies are more than just a dessert; they are a delightful invitation to experience pure culinary magic, especially during the festive seasons. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly fudgy, intensely chocolatey brownie, only to be met with a vibrant, refreshing burst of cool peppermint. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that truly captivates the senses and instantly transports you to a cozy, joyous atmosphere.

The brownie itself, a quintessential American invention, has always been a canvas for culinary creativity. Its transformation with the addition of peppermint, a flavor intrinsically linked with winter holidays and heartwarming traditions, elevates it to a truly special status. This combination isn’t merely a modern trend; it echoes a cherished custom of infusing classic comforts with seasonal cheer, making it an indispensable part of holiday celebrations and family gatherings.

People absolutely adore this dish for its exquisite balance of rich, deep chocolate and the invigorating zest of peppermint. The delightful contrast between the dense, chewy brownie and the crisp, cool mint creates an unforgettable taste sensation that I believe is both decadent and surprisingly refreshing. Whether it’s the luxurious texture, the vibrant festive appeal, or the sheer joy they bring to any table, these Peppermint Brownies offer a moment of pure, sweet bliss that truly embodies the spirit of generosity and indulgence. They are perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply savoring every enchanting bite.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

Oh, get ready to make some of the most decadent and delightful Peppermint Brownies you’ve ever tasted! Here’s everything you’ll need to create this festive treat. I’ve broken it down into three main sections for clarity, ensuring you have all your components ready for absolute success.

• For the Fudgy Brownie Base:

• Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g). Using unsalted gives us control over the salt content.
• Granulated Sugar: 2 cups (400g). This provides the perfect sweetness and contributes to that desired fudgy texture.
• Large Eggs: 4. These are crucial for structure and richness in our Peppermint Brownies.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons. Don’t skimp on good quality vanilla; it really enhances the chocolate.
• Peppermint Extract: 1/2 teaspoon. This is subtle, meant to complement the rich chocolate and hint at the peppermint without overpowering it.
• All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup (120g). Measured correctly (fluffed, then spooned and leveled) to avoid dense brownies.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: 3/4 cup (75g). I prefer Dutch-processed for a darker color and milder chocolate flavor, but natural works too.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon. Essential for balancing the sweetness and intensifying the chocolate flavor.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips or Chunks: 1 cup (170g). Optional, but they add delightful pockets of molten chocolate.

• For the Creamy Peppermint Frosting:

• Unsalted Butter, softened: 1/2 cup (1 stick or 113g). Make sure it’s truly soft, not melted, for a smooth frosting.
• Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar), sifted: 3-4 cups (360-480g). Sifting is key for a lump-free frosting!
• Milk or Heavy Cream: 2-4 tablespoons. Start with less and add more until you reach your desired consistency.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon.
• Peppermint Extract: 1 teaspoon. This is where the main peppermint flavor for our Peppermint Brownies truly shines!
• Optional: Green Food Coloring: A few drops. For that extra festive touch, if you desire.

• For the Festive Topping and Garnish:

• Crushed Candy Canes: 1/2 cup, or about 8-10 regular-sized candy canes. These provide a beautiful crunch and burst of fresh peppermint.
• Optional Chocolate Drizzle (Ganache):
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: 1/2 cup (85g).
• Heavy Cream: 1/4 cup.

Preparing the Ultimate Fudgy Brownie Base

Let’s get started on creating the foundation for our magnificent Peppermint Brownies! The key to truly fudgy brownies is a good balance of fat, sugar, and flour, along with careful mixing. We’re aiming for a dense, moist, and intensely chocolatey base that will perfectly complement the bright peppermint notes.

1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pan:

   First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a consistent baking temperature from the moment your brownies go in. Next, take a 9×13 inch baking pan. Line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This “sling” will make it incredibly easy to lift your cooled brownies out of the pan, allowing for cleaner cuts. Lightly grease the parchment paper with butter or non-stick spray. Trust me, this little step makes a big difference when it comes to serving these amazing Peppermint Brownies.

2. Melt the Butter and Sugar:

   In a large, microwave-safe bowl or a saucepan over low heat, combine the 1 cup of unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar. If using the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the butter is melted and the sugar is mostly dissolved. If using the stovetop, stir constantly until melted and smooth. The goal here isn’t to cook the sugar, but to dissolve it into the butter, which contributes significantly to that signature crackly top and fudgy interior. This initial step is vital for the texture of our future Peppermint Brownies.

3. Whisk in Wet Ingredients:

   Remove the butter and sugar mixture from the heat (or microwave). Allow it to cool for just a minute or two – you don’t want to scramble the eggs! Now, one at a time, whisk in the 4 large eggs until fully incorporated. It’s important to add them individually to ensure they emulsify properly into the mixture, creating a smooth batter. Then, stir in the 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract and the 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract. This touch of peppermint in the base ties everything together, providing a subtle foundation for the stronger peppermint frosting. Whisk vigorously for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is lightened slightly and glossy. This aeration helps create that desirable crackly top on your Peppermint Brownies.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients:

   In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Make sure there are no lumps in the cocoa powder. Combining the dry ingredients separately ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the batter when added to the wet mixture, preventing overmixing later.

5. Gently Fold in Dry Ingredients:

   Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredient mixture. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to tough, cakey brownies instead of the dense, fudgy texture we’re after for our Peppermint Brownies. A few streaks of flour are perfectly fine; they will disappear during baking. If you’re using them, gently fold in the 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks at this stage.

6. Bake to Perfection:

   Pour the brownie batter into your prepared 9×13 inch pan and spread it evenly with your spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The exact baking time will depend on your oven and your desired level of fudginess. You want the edges to be set and a toothpick inserted into the center to come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. If it comes out completely clean, your brownies might be on the drier side. Remember, brownies continue to cook slightly from residual heat after being removed from the oven. This is a critical step for perfect Peppermint Brownies.

7. Cool Completely:

   Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. And I mean completely! This can take at least 2-3 hours, or even longer. Trying to frost warm brownies will result in melted, messy frosting, which we definitely want to avoid. Patience is a virtue here, my friends. For the best possible results with our Peppermint Brownies, ensuring the base is fully cooled and firm is non-negotiable.

Crafting the Creamy Peppermint Frosting

Now that our beautiful brownie base is cooling, let’s turn our attention to the star of the show: the incredibly creamy and refreshing peppermint frosting. This is where the vibrant flavor of our Peppermint Brownies truly comes to life!

1. Soften the Butter:

   In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer (either a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer), beat the 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter on medium speed for about 1-2 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. It’s essential that your butter is truly at room temperature – soft enough to leave a slight indent when pressed, but not greasy or melted. This aeration creates the base for a wonderfully light frosting.

2. Add Powdered Sugar Gradually:

   With the mixer on low speed, gradually add in the 3-4 cups of sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Sifting the powdered sugar beforehand is a non-negotiable step for a perfectly smooth, lump-free frosting. If you skip this, you’ll be battling tiny sugar lumps, which can ruin the texture. Once each cup is mostly incorporated, increase the speed to medium and beat until combined before adding the next. This gentle approach prevents a sugary cloud from engulfing your kitchen!

3. Incorporate Liquids and Flavor:

   Once all the powdered sugar is incorporated, scrape down the sides of the bowl. Now, add the 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, the 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, and 2 tablespoons of milk or heavy cream. Start with just 2 tablespoons of liquid. Beat on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth. The peppermint extract is the main flavoring agent here, giving our Peppermint Brownies their signature holiday taste.

4. Adjust Consistency and Color:

   Check the consistency of your frosting. If it’s too thick, add the remaining milk or cream, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired spreading consistency. You want it thick enough to hold its shape but soft enough to spread easily. If you’re opting for a festive look, now is the time to add a few drops of green food coloring. Mix until the color is evenly distributed. This vibrant green really makes your Peppermint Brownies pop!

Assembling Your Festive Peppermint Brownies

The moment of truth has arrived! Our rich brownie base is cool, our creamy peppermint frosting is ready, and now it’s time to bring them together to create those show-stopping Peppermint Brownies that everyone will rave about.

1. Frost the Brownies:

   Once your brownies are completely cooled (and I truly mean completely!), use the parchment paper overhang to carefully lift the entire brownie slab out of the pan and onto a cutting board or a large serving platter. Evenly spread the creamy peppermint frosting over the top of the brownies using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. Aim for a nice, even layer from edge to edge. The contrast between the dark chocolate brownie and the pale or green peppermint frosting is visually appealing, making your Peppermint Brownies look as good as they taste.

2. Add the Crushed Candy Canes:

   Immediately after frosting, sprinkle the 1/2 cup of crushed candy canes generously over the top of the peppermint frosting. The stickiness of the frosting will help them adhere. You can crush candy canes by placing them in a zip-top bag and gently tapping them with a rolling pin or the back of a heavy pan. Don’t pulverize them into dust; some varied chunks add great texture and visual interest to your Peppermint Brownies. This step not only adds a burst of vibrant color but also introduces that delightful crunch and intense peppermint flavor that defines this treat.

3. Optional Chocolate Drizzle (Ganache):

   If you’re feeling extra fancy and want to add another layer of chocolatey goodness, prepare the optional chocolate ganache. In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/4 cup of heavy cream. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, then stir well. Continue microwaving in 15-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. Be careful not to overheat it. Let the ganache cool for about 5-10 minutes until it’s slightly thickened but still pourable. Drizzle it artistically over the crushed candy canes and frosting using a spoon or a piping bag with the tip snipped off. This adds a beautiful final touch to your Peppermint Brownies.

4. Chill to Set:

   For the cleanest cuts and to allow the frosting to firm up, place the frosted brownies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This chilling time helps set the frosting and makes slicing much easier, preventing smudging and ensuring each piece of Peppermint Brownies looks perfect.

5. Slice and Serve:

   Once chilled, remove the brownies from the refrigerator. For the neatest slices, use a large, sharp knife. Heat the knife under hot water, wipe it clean, and then make a cut. Reheat and wipe the knife before each new cut. This technique creates incredibly clean edges. Cut your Peppermint Brownies into squares of your desired size – 12 large squares, 16 medium, or even smaller bite-sized pieces for a party platter. Serve these delightful treats immediately or store them for later enjoyment. These are truly a festive joy!

Tips for Perfect Peppermint Brownies:

Storage Suggestions:

Once your Peppermint Brownies are assembled and sliced, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If your kitchen is particularly warm, or if you prefer a firmer frosting, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving to ensure the brownie base is soft and fudgy.

Making Ahead for Parties:

These Peppermint Brownies are an excellent make-ahead dessert! You can bake the brownie base a day or two in advance. Store the cooled brownie slab wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature. Prepare the frosting and assemble the brownies on the day you plan to serve them for optimal freshness and texture. The crushed candy canes stay crispier when added closer to serving time.

Customizing Your Peppermint Brownies:

Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate in your brownie base. Dark chocolate will give a more intense flavor, while milk chocolate will result in a sweeter, milder brownie. You could even swirl some white chocolate chips into the brownie batter for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal. For the topping, consider adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the chocolate ganache (if using) to enhance the chocolate flavor and provide a wonderful contrast. You could also mix some mini chocolate chips into the peppermint frosting for even more texture. The possibilities are endless when it comes to personalizing your Peppermint Brownies!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, friends! We’ve reached the sweet end of our journey with what I truly believe is a recipe destined to become a staple in your kitchen and a star at every gathering. I genuinely hope you’re as excited as I am about these incredible treats. This isn’t just another brownie recipe; it’s an experience, a symphony of rich chocolate and refreshing mint that dances on your palate. From the moment the aroma of baking fills your home, you’ll understand why I’m so passionate about them. The deep, fudgy interior, the delightful chewiness, and that irresistible burst of cool peppermint make every single bite pure bliss. They strike that perfect balance between decadent indulgence and refreshing zest, making them universally appealing. Trust me when I say, once you taste the perfection of these Peppermint Brownies, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again, whether it’s for a cozy night in or a festive holiday celebration.

Now, let’s talk about making these beauties even more spectacular. While they are absolutely divine on their own, warm from the oven, there are so many ways to elevate your serving experience. Imagine a warm brownie topped with a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, allowing the cold creaminess to melt slightly into the warm chocolate – pure heaven! Or, for an extra touch of decadence, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, perhaps lightly sweetened with a touch of vanilla extract, would be simply exquisite. For a more sophisticated dessert, consider crumbling them over a trifle or layering them with mousse in a parfait glass. For those who love a bit of texture contrast, a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts over the top just before serving adds a wonderful crunch that complements the soft brownie perfectly. Don’t forget the power of a simple dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar for an elegant presentation that takes mere seconds.

But the fun doesn’t stop at serving suggestions; these brownies are incredibly versatile when it comes to variations too. If you’re feeling extra festive, you could swirl in a touch of raspberry jam or cherry pie filling before baking for a fruity counterpoint to the mint and chocolate. For a more intense chocolate experience, consider adding a handful of chocolate chunks or chips to the batter, creating pockets of gooey melted chocolate within the fudgy base. You could even experiment with different types of chocolate, from bittersweet for a more grown-up flavor to milk chocolate for a sweeter, creamier profile. And while peppermint is undeniably the star, don’t be afraid to experiment with other extracts if you’re making these outside the traditional holiday season. A hint of orange or almond extract could transform these into an entirely new delightful treat, showcasing the incredible adaptability of the base recipe. For a holiday twist that’s truly show-stopping, consider a layer of white chocolate ganache swirled with a touch of green food coloring and a few extra crushed candy canes on top – visually stunning and even more delicious!

Now It’s Your Turn!

I cannot stress enough how much I encourage you to whip up a batch of these glorious brownies as soon as you can. Seriously, clear your schedule, gather your ingredients, and prepare to be amazed. It’s a truly rewarding experience, from the simple joy of mixing the batter to the sheer delight of that first bite. This recipe is designed to be approachable for bakers of all skill levels, ensuring a successful and delicious outcome every time. Once you’ve made them, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you stick to the classic? Did you try any of my serving suggestions or venture into your own creative variations? What was your favorite part? Did they disappear as quickly as they do in my house? Please, don’t be shy! Share your thoughts, your photos, and your triumphs with me and our baking community. Your feedback and creativity inspire us all to keep exploring the wonderful world of home baking. Happy baking, and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite fudgy, minty, chocolatey delight!