Name: Decadent Peppermint Brownies: Easy Recipe for a Sweet Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 (16 brownies)
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Unsalted butter gives you control over the salt level. I tried using salted butter once when that's all I had in the fridge. They turned out fine but the salt competed with the delicate mint balance.; All-purpose flour needs precise measuring for the fudgiest texture. Too much creates cake-like brownies instead of that dense, rich texture that makes these irresistible.; Fresh eggs create that perfect crackly top when properly incorporated with the sugar. Cold eggs straight from the fridge lead to dense, flat brownies without that signature shine.; Pure vanilla extract might seem unnecessary with all the peppermint, but it creates depth in the chocolate layer that would be noticeably missing otherwise.; Quality cocoa makes or breaks these brownies. Dutch-processed gives smoother flavor, but regular cocoa works perfectly fine too. Just don't use hot chocolate mix - learned that mistake the embarrassing way.

Craving a festive treat that combines rich chocolate with a refreshing twist? Look no further than these indulgent Peppermint Brownies! This recipe strikes the perfect balance between decadent cocoa goodness and cool minty freshness. The marriage of flavors in these Peppermint Brownies will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

As an SEO expert and food blogger, I can attest that Peppermint Brownies are a must-try for any chocolate lover looking to add a touch of holiday cheer to their baking repertoire. The secret to these delectable brownies lies in the careful selection of ingredients and precise techniques. From the quality of cocoa to the incorporation of fresh eggs, each element plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect fudgy texture and delightful mint-chocolate flavor. Indulge in the magic of the season with every bite of these Peppermint Brownies – they’re sure to become a new holiday favorite in your kitchen!

Table of Contents

Quick Benefits

Control over salt level with unsalted butter
Quality cocoa for a smooth flavor
Fresh eggs for a crackly top and shiny finish
Precise measuring of all-purpose flour for fudgy texture

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Peppermint Brownies: Easy Recipe for a Sweet Treat Recipe

*Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Brownies Recipe:**
Control Over Salt Level: Unsalted butter allows you to adjust the saltiness to your liking, ensuring a perfect balance with the delicate mint flavor.
Quality Cocoa: Using high-quality cocoa is key to achieving a rich and decadent chocolate flavor. Even if you don’t have Dutch-processed cocoa, regular cocoa will work just fine.
Perfect Crackly Top: Fresh eggs, properly incorporated with sugar, create a beautiful crackly top on the brownies that is both visually appealing and adds to the texture.
Depth of Flavor: The addition of pure vanilla extract enhances the chocolate layer, providing a depth of flavor that complements the peppermint without overpowering it.
Fudgy Texture: Precise measurement of all-purpose flour is crucial for achieving the fudgiest texture in these brownies. Avoiding excess flour ensures they stay dense and rich rather than cake-like.

Ingredients for Decadent Peppermint Brownies: Easy Recipe for a Sweet Treat

Unsalted butter gives you control over the salt level. I tried using salted butter once when that’s all I had in the fridge. They turned out fine but the salt competed with the delicate mint balance.
All-purpose flour needs precise measuring for the fudgiest texture. Too much creates cake-like brownies instead of that dense, rich texture that makes these irresistible.
Fresh eggs create that perfect crackly top when properly incorporated with the sugar. Cold eggs straight from the fridge lead to dense, flat brownies without that signature shine.
Pure vanilla extract might seem unnecessary with all the peppermint, but it creates depth in the chocolate layer that would be noticeably missing otherwise.
Quality cocoa makes or breaks these brownies. Dutch-processed gives smoother flavor, but regular cocoa works perfectly fine too. Just don’t use hot chocolate mix – learned that mistake the embarrassing way.

How to Make Decadent Peppermint Brownies: Easy Recipe for a Sweet Treat

Step 1: Prep your pan

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper, allowing for overhang.

Step 2: Mix the brownie batter

1. Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Add sugar and whisk until combined. Mix in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla. Fold in cocoa powder, flour, and salt until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the brownies

Transfer the batter to the prepared pan, spread it evenly, and bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

Step 4: Make the peppermint frosting

In a medium bowl, cream softened butter. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth. Add red food coloring for a light pink hue.

Step 5: Finish and serve

Spoon the peppermint frosting onto the cooled brownies and use a knife to create a marbled effect. Top with crushed candy canes, cut into squares, and serve.

Storage Tips

To store Peppermint Brownies, allow them to cool completely in the baking dish before covering them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store the brownies at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best texture and flavor. If you need to store them for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but be aware that refrigeration can slightly alter the texture, making them firmer.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze Peppermint Brownies. Once cooled, cut the brownies into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container before freezing. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, allow the brownies to thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

For the unsalted butter, if you only have salted butter on hand, you can still use it in the recipe. Just be mindful of the additional salt content and consider reducing the amount of added salt in the recipe to avoid the flavors competing with the mint. Alternatively, you could use margarine or a plant-based butter substitute if you prefer.

If you don’t have Dutch-processed cocoa, regular cocoa powder can be used as a substitute without compromising the overall taste of the brownies. However, avoid using hot chocolate mix as a replacement, as it contains additional ingredients like sugar and powdered milk that will alter the texture and flavor of the brownies.

If you’re out of pure vanilla extract, you can substitute it with other extracts like almond or mint for a different flavor profile that complements the peppermint. Additionally, if you prefer to avoid using eggs, you can try using flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer to achieve a similar texture in the brownies.

Serving Suggestions

For a festive and indulgent way to serve these peppermint brownies, try topping each piece with a scoop of peppermint ice cream and a drizzle of hot fudge sauce. The combination of warm, fudgy brownie with cool, refreshing ice cream is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering.

To elevate these peppermint brownies even further, consider turning them into a decadent brownie trifle. Simply layer crumbled brownies with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies in individual serving glasses for a stunning dessert presentation. This elegant twist on traditional brownies is perfect for special occasions and will leave your guests impressed with both the flavor and presentation.

FAQs for Decadent Peppermint Brownies: Easy Recipe for a Sweet Treat

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but it may affect the overall salt level in the brownies. To control the saltiness, it’s recommended to use unsalted butter.

Can I substitute Dutch-processed cocoa with regular cocoa?

Yes, you can use regular cocoa instead of Dutch-processed cocoa in the recipe. While Dutch-processed cocoa provides a smoother flavor, regular cocoa works perfectly fine too.

Does it matter if I use cold eggs straight from the fridge?

It’s best to use fresh eggs at room temperature for the perfect crackly top on the brownies. Cold eggs from the fridge can lead to dense, flat brownies without the desired shine.

Do I need to use pure vanilla extract even though there’s already peppermint flavor?

Yes, using pure vanilla extract is recommended as it adds depth to the chocolate layer of the brownies. It complements the peppermint flavor and enhances the overall taste of the brownies.

Conclusion

Peppermint Brownies are truly a delight for the senses, combining rich chocolate with a refreshing burst of mint. As you savor each decadent bite, let the harmonious blend of flavors remind you that a little indulgence now and then is essential for the soul. So go ahead, treat yourself to a batch of these luscious Peppermint Brownies and share them with loved ones who deserve a sweet surprise.

Whether you’re baking these Peppermint Brownies for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a craving, remember that the joy of homemade treats goes beyond the final product. Embrace the process of creating something delicious from scratch and allow yourself to revel in the comforting scents wafting from the oven. May every bite of these Peppermint Brownies bring you a moment of pure bliss and a reminder that life is sweeter with a little chocolate and mint.

Decadent Peppermint Brownies: Easy Recipe for a Sweet Treat

Indulge in decadent Peppermint Brownies with a fudgy texture, crackly top, and a delicate balance of mint and chocolate flavors.

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Prep Time15 Minutes

Cook Time25 Minutes

Total Time40 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings16 Servings (16 brownies)

Ingredients

Unsalted butter gives you control over the salt level. I tried using salted butter once when that’s all I had in the fridge. They turned out fine but the salt competed with the delicate mint balance.
All-purpose flour needs precise measuring for the fudgiest texture. Too much creates cake-like brownies instead of that dense, rich texture that makes these irresistible.
Fresh eggs create that perfect crackly top when properly incorporated with the sugar. Cold eggs straight from the fridge lead to dense, flat brownies without that signature shine.
Pure vanilla extract might seem unnecessary with all the peppermint, but it creates depth in the chocolate layer that would be noticeably missing otherwise.
Quality cocoa makes or breaks these brownies. Dutch-processed gives smoother flavor, but regular cocoa works perfectly fine too. Just don’t use hot chocolate mix – learned that mistake the embarrassing way.

Instructions

Prep your pan: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper, allowing for overhang.
Mix the brownie batter: 1. Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Add sugar and whisk until combined. Mix in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla. Fold in cocoa powder, flour, and salt until just combined.
Bake the brownies: Transfer the batter to the prepared pan, spread it evenly, and bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
Make the peppermint frosting: In a medium bowl, cream softened butter. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth. Add red food coloring for a light pink hue.
Finish and serve: Spoon the peppermint frosting onto the cooled brownies and use a knife to create a marbled effect. Top with crushed candy canes, cut into squares, and serve.