There is something utterly magical about combining rich chocolate with the crisp, refreshing zing of peppermint, which is exactly why this Peppermint Brownies Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites to bake and share. These brownies boast a moist, fudgy texture deepened with dutch cocoa, balanced beautifully by a luscious peppermint-cream cheese frosting that’s both smooth and delightfully festive. Whether you’re craving a cozy winter treat or a unique dessert to wow your friends, this recipe brings together simplicity and show-stopping flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Peppermint Brownies Recipe is carefully chosen to create that perfect harmony of texture and taste, from the rich, velvety cocoa to the fresh peppermint notes that brighten the whole experience.
- 2/3 cup (98g) all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the brownies their tender crumb without weighing them down.
- 2/3 cup (56g) dutch cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate intensity and a hint of natural bitterness for balance.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, making the chocolate and peppermint pop.
- 12 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and moistness, crucial for that classic fudgy texture.
- 1 1/4 cups (250g) granulated sugar: Sweetens evenly without overpowering the chocolate.
- 3 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the brownie’s dense yet tender structure.
- 1 tsp peppermint extract: The star flavor that infuses the brownies with refreshing minty brightness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with warmth and depth.
- 2 oz. cream cheese, softened: Creates a rich, tangy base for the frosting that contrasts deliciously with the chocolate.
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Adds creaminess and smoothness to the frosting’s texture.
- 1 1/4 cups (150g) powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting to just the right level while keeping it light and fluffy.
- 1/4 tsp peppermint extract: Gives the frosting its refreshing, cool minty flavor.
- 3 Tbsp finely crushed peppermint candy canes: Adds a festive crunch and a burst of color atop the frosting.
How to Make Peppermint Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9 by 9-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking; lining it with parchment paper and buttering that as well makes for easy removal and cleaner edges.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, dutch cocoa powder, and salt. This step ensures your dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which helps create that consistent chocolate flavor throughout every bite of the brownies.
Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the melted butter and sugar together until blended. Then, add the eggs, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract, whisking vigorously for about a minute. This aerates the mixture slightly, which balances the fudgy density with a touch of lightness.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually stir the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula or wooden spoon. Make sure to scrape around the bowl’s edges to fully incorporate all the flour. This gentle mixing keeps your brownies dense yet tender, without overworking the batter.
Step 5: Bake Your Brownies
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 28 to 32 minutes, or until the brownies are set in the center but still fudgy. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Step 6: Make the Peppermint Frosting
Using an electric mixer, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and well combined. Add powdered sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract, then whip for several minutes until the frosting becomes light, fluffy, and luscious.
Step 7: Frost and Decorate
Spread the cool, creamy frosting evenly over your brownies. To finish, sprinkle the crushed peppermint candy canes generously on top for not only flavor but a festive, sparkling crunch that’s impossible to resist.
How to Serve Peppermint Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Add a final touch to your Peppermint Brownies Recipe with extra crushed candy cane or a few whole mint leaves for fresh color and aroma. A drizzle of melted white chocolate can also elevate the visual appeal and flavor.
Side Dishes
Serve these brownies with a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream to turn this treat into a full dessert experience. A hot cup of coffee or a peppermint-infused hot chocolate also pairs perfectly, enhancing the minty notes and contrasting beautifully with the rich chocolate.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the brownies into festive shapes using cookie cutters or arrange them on a decorative platter with holly sprigs during the holidays. For parties, try stacking mini squares with layers of whipped cream and berries for a stunning peppermint brownie trifle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store your frosted peppermint brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the brownies moist and the frosting creamy without drying out.
Freezing
To freeze, place brownies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, perfect for preparing ahead for special occasions.
Reheating
For the best texture, thaw frozen brownies in the fridge overnight. Serve them chilled or let come to room temperature. If you prefer a warm treat, microwave for just 10-15 seconds, but avoid heating too long as the frosting can melt.
FAQs
Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of dutch cocoa?
Yes, you can substitute regular cocoa powder, but dutch-processed cocoa offers a smoother, richer flavor and darker color, which elevates the brownie’s chocolatey depth.
What if I don’t have peppermint extract?
If you lack peppermint extract, a few drops of peppermint oil can work, but be careful—it’s much stronger. Vanilla alone can also be used, though it won’t have the characteristic mint flavor.
Can these brownies be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend measured cup-for-cup. Make sure your cocoa powder and other ingredients are gluten-free certified to avoid cross-contamination.
Is it possible to make these vegan?
You can experiment with vegan substitutes like flax eggs, dairy-free butter, and vegan cream cheese, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly. The minty chocolate combination will still shine, though!
How do I know when brownies are done baking?
The edges should appear set and slightly pulling away from the pan, while the center remains just a bit soft and gooey. A toothpick inserted near the center will come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite as delightful as the combo of chocolate and peppermint in a dense, fudgy brownie topped with creamy frosting and festive candy canes. This Peppermint Brownies Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a joyful addition to your baking lineup. Give it a try and watch it become your new favorite go-to treat for any occasion!
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Peppermint Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Peppermint Brownies are a festive and rich chocolate treat infused with refreshing peppermint extract and topped with a creamy peppermint frosting and crushed candy canes. Perfectly fudgy and sweet with a delightful peppermint twist, they make a delicious holiday dessert.
Ingredients
Brownies
- 2/3 cup (98g) all-purpose flour (scoop and level to measure)
- 2/3 cup (56g) dutch cocoa powder (spoon and level to measure)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 12 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/4 cups (250g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Frosting
- 2 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups (150g) powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
- 3 Tbsp finely crushed peppermint candy canes
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Butter a 9 by 9-inch baking dish thoroughly. You may also line the dish with parchment paper and butter the parchment for easy removal.
- Mix dry brownie ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, dutch cocoa powder, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk the melted unsalted butter with granulated sugar until mixed well. Add in the eggs, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract and whisk the mixture for about 1 minute to incorporate fully.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until the batter is just combined, making sure to scrape the bottom and edges of the bowl to avoid pockets of dry ingredients.
- Bake the brownies: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 28 to 32 minutes or until the center is set. Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the frosting: Using an electric hand mixer, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter in a large mixing bowl until smooth and well blended. Add powdered sugar and peppermint extract, then whip the frosting for several minutes until light and fluffy.
- Frost and decorate: Spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the completely cooled brownies. Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candy canes over the top for a festive crunch. Cut into 12 squares and serve.
Notes
- Be sure to let the brownies cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Using parchment paper in the baking dish makes removing brownies easier and helps with clean-up.
- Adjust the amount of peppermint extract to suit your taste, as some brands are stronger than others.
- Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep frosting fresh.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives.
