Why Make This Recipe
Peppermint brownies are a delightful treat for anyone who loves the combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint. They are perfect for holiday celebrations, parties, or just as a cozy dessert at home. The layers of fudgy brownies topped with creamy peppermint icing and drizzled with chocolate create a visual delight that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re a beginner baker or just looking for a special dessert, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress.
How to Make Peppermint Brownies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 Tablespoons milk (any variety)
- 1 cup Ghirardelli dark chocolate melting wafers (melted)
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper and set it aside.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips and granulated sugar until blended.
- Add the eggs one at a time to the mixture. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Use big strokes to mix just until the dry ingredients are blended. Be careful not to over-mix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 35-40 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before adding the topping.
- For the icing, beat the softened butter with powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and milk. Beat for about 3-4 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Spread the icing over the cooled brownies. Melt the dark chocolate in a glass bowl in the microwave for one minute, stirring until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the brownies and immediately sprinkle with crushed candy.
- Allow the chocolate to set for about one hour. Once set, slice and serve.
How to Serve Peppermint Brownies
Serve peppermint brownies as a festive dessert at family gatherings or holiday parties. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. For an extra special treat, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. These brownies also look lovely on a dessert platter, making them perfect for sharing!
How to Store Peppermint Brownies
To keep the brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then put them in a freezer-safe bag. They will last for up to three months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Peppermint Brownies
- Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin for the best results.
- Do not overmix the brownie batter; mixing just until combined keeps them fudgy.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of peppermint extract in the icing to suit your taste.
- Make sure to allow the brownies to cool completely before icing them for a smooth finish.
Variation
For a different twist, try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the brownie batter for added texture. You could also substitute the peppermint extract with almond extract for a deliciously different flavor.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use unsweetened chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?
A1: Yes, you can use unsweetened chocolate. Just make sure to add a little more sugar to the batter since unsweetened chocolate is not sweet.
Q2: Can I use another type of candy for topping instead of peppermint candy?
A2: Absolutely! You can use crushed Oreos, M&Ms, or any candy you enjoy for a different flavor and look.
Q3: Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
A3: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free.
