Embrace the festive season with these Fudgy Peppermint Brownies, a delightful twist on a classic dessert. These brownies are rich, fudgy, and infused with the refreshing flavor of peppermint. With crushed peppermint bits mixed into the batter and sprinkled on top, each bite offers a perfect blend of chocolate and mint. Ideal for holiday gatherings or a cozy winter treat, these brownies are sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love Fudgy Peppermint Brownies for their indulgent, fudgy texture and the refreshing hint of peppermint. The combination of rich chocolate and crisp peppermint makes these brownies a perfect treat for the holidays. Easy to make and visually appealing with their festive topping, they are great for sharing with family and friends.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep the brownies fudgy.
- Crush Peppermints Gently: Gently crush the peppermint candies to avoid turning them into powder. You want small pieces for texture.
- Line the Pan: Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean-up.
- Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips or chunks for a deeper chocolate flavor.
- Mint Extract: Add a few drops of mint extract to the batter for an extra minty kick.
- White Chocolate: Mix in white chocolate chips along with the peppermint bits for added sweetness.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve Fudgy Peppermint Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of cocoa, coffee, or peppermint tea. For a festive touch, dust the brownies with powdered sugar before serving.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze the brownies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Reheat the brownies in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them warm.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use peppermint extract instead of peppermint bits? Yes, you can add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter for additional peppermint flavor.
How do I crush peppermint candies? Place the peppermint candies in a zip-top bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time? Yes, these brownies can be made a day or two ahead and stored in an airtight container.
What if I don’t have parchment paper? You can grease the baking pan well with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Can I add nuts to the brownies? Yes, feel free to add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
Fudgy Peppermint Brownies
Embrace the festive season with these Fudgy Peppermint Brownies, featuring rich, fudgy brownies infused with crushed peppermint bits. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy winter treat, these brownies offer a delightful blend of chocolate and mint in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (divided)
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Melt Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop, melt the butter. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Add Peppermint and Chocolate: Fold in half of the crushed peppermint candies and the chocolate chips (if using).
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining crushed peppermint candies on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 16 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 162Total Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 39mgSodium: 44mgCarbohydrates: 21gFiber: 1gSugar: 16gProtein: 2g
