Introduction
If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat that’s bursting with holiday cheer, look no further than these delightful Peppermint Brownies! With their rich, chocolatey base and refreshing burst of peppermint, these brownies are the perfect addition to any festive gathering or cozy night in. They’re fudgy, decadent, and topped with a smooth frosting that’s finished off with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies. Everyone will be reaching for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 2/3 cup peppermint candies, crushed
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
For Frosting:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Peppermint extract, to taste
- Additional crushed peppermint candies for topping
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 16 brownies
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar and melted butter, stirring until well mixed.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract into the sugar-butter mixture, stirring until everything is nicely combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until thoroughly combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix!
- Next, fold in the crushed peppermint candies and chocolate chips, creating a vibrant, festive batter.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly across the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
- While your brownies are baking, prepare the frosting by mixing together the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, softened butter, milk, and peppermint extract in a bowl until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Once the brownies are done, let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Spread the luscious frosting evenly over the cooled brownies and sprinkle additional crushed peppermint candies on top for that perfect crunch.
- Cut into squares and serve these magical treats to your friends and family!
Notes or Tips
- For a mintier flavor, feel free to add more peppermint extract to the frosting.
- These brownies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them perfect for meal prep or holiday gifting!
- You can also experiment with different types of chocolate chips or even add a hint of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe is a great way to practice your baking skills! Mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately helps ensure a smooth batter without overworking the flour, resulting in soft, fudgy brownies. Be mindful of your baking time—every oven is a little different, so check for that perfect moist crumb!
FAQ
- Can I use white chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate chips? Absolutely! White chocolate will add a nice contrast with the peppermint.
- Can I make these brownies gluten-free? Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
- What can I serve these brownies with? They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of hot fudge!
Conclusion
These Peppermint Brownies are a delightful treat that beautifully combines rich chocolate with refreshing peppermint. With their easy preparation and festive appearance, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home. So gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and watch the smiles appear as everyone indulges in these sweet, minty delights. Happy baking!