These peppermint brownies are rich, fudgy, and perfect for chocolate lovers! The refreshing touch of peppermint makes them extra special for any occasion.
Honestly, the combination of chocolate and mint is like a party in your mouth! 🎉 I love serving these warm with a scoop of ice cream; it’s a sweet treat everyone enjoys!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness, but you can use salted butter. Just reduce the added salt a bit.
Chocolate: Dark or semi-sweet chocolate creates a lovely depth. If you prefer milk chocolate, it’ll be sweeter! For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free chocolate.
Sugars: The mix of granulated and brown sugar adds depth to the flavor and moisture. If you want it simpler, just use all granulated sugar.
White Chocolate Chips: These are optional, but I think they add a nice creamy layer. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using dairy-free white chocolate or leave it out completely.
Peppermint Extract: This gives the brownies their fresh taste! If you want a stronger mint flavor, feel free to add a bit more, but go easy—it’s potent.
How Do I Melt Chocolate Perfectly?
Melt chocolate without burning it by using low heat. I suggest using a double boiler or microwave for best results. Here’s how:
- Double Boiler: Place chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Stir gently until melted.
- Microwave: Break chocolate into small pieces in a microwave-safe bowl, heat for 30 seconds at a time, stirring after each interval until smooth.
Remember, don’t overheat! Chocolate can seize up if too hot, so keep an eye on it. This step is crucial for your brownies’ rich texture.
Peppermint Brownies (Rich and Fudgy Recipe)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brownie Batter:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 8 ounces dark or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Peppermint Layer:
- 1 cup white chocolate chips or chunks (optional)
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
For Topping:
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candy canes or peppermint candies
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30-35 minutes of baking time. After baking, you’ll want to let the brownies cool completely before serving. So, in total, expect about 1 hour for preparation and cooking, plus additional time for cooling. Perfect for a delightful treat any time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang. This will help you lift the brownies out later!
2. Melt the Chocolate:
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter and the chopped chocolate over low heat. Stir continuously until smooth and fully combined. Once melted, take it off the heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Mix Sugars and Eggs:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes light and slightly thickened. This adds air to the batter for a nice texture!
4. Combine Chocolate and Egg Mixture:
Slowly pour the cooled chocolate-butter mixture into the sugar and egg mixture. Stir continuously until everything is well blended and smooth.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. This step is important to help combine the dry ingredients evenly and prevent clumps.
6. Fold Together:
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—it’s okay if some streaks of flour remain!
7. Layer Your Batter:
Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
8. Make the Peppermint Layer:
In a small saucepan, melt the white chocolate chips over low heat. Stir in the peppermint extract for a refreshing flavor. Pour this peppermint white chocolate layer over the brownie batter and spread it out evenly.
9. Top with Remaining Batter:
Pour the remaining brownie batter over the peppermint layer, smoothing it out gently to cover it completely.
10. Bake the Brownies:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs—this means they are perfectly fudgy!
11. Add the Peppermint Crunch:
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven. Immediately sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies evenly over the warm brownies and gently press them in so they stick.
12. Cool and Serve:
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift the brownies out using the parchment overhang and cut them into squares. Enjoy your delicious, rich, and fudgy peppermint brownies!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Chocolate?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for dark or semi-sweet chocolate for richness, you can also use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor. Just keep in mind that this may change the overall taste and texture of the brownies!
Can I Make These Brownies Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make these brownies a day in advance. Once they’re completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll taste just as delicious the next day!
How Should I Store Leftover Brownies?
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly or place them in a freezer-safe container for best results.
What If I Don’t Have Peppermint Extract?
If you’re out of peppermint extract, you can use mint extract instead, but use it sparingly as it’s stronger. Alternatively, you can skip the mint altogether for a rich chocolate brownie experience!
