Fudgy Peppermint Brownies

Why Make This Recipe

Fudgy Peppermint Brownies are a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate flavors with refreshing peppermint. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you want a tasty dessert, these brownies are easy to make and sure to please friends and family. The addition of peppermint bits gives them a unique twist that adds both flavor and a festive touch.

How to Make Fudgy Peppermint Brownies

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup crushed peppermint bits
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
3. Beat in the flour, cocoa, and salt until combined.
4. Fold in the crushed peppermint bits and chocolate chips, if using.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Allow to cool, then cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar if desired.

How to Serve Fudgy Peppermint Brownies

Serve Fudgy Peppermint Brownies warm or at room temperature. They go great with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. For an extra festive look, sprinkle some additional crushed peppermint bits over the brownies before serving.

How to Store Fudgy Peppermint Brownies

Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. You can also keep them in the refrigerator for longer freshness. If you want to freeze them, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Tips to Make Fudgy Peppermint Brownies

• Make sure to melt the butter gently to avoid burning it.
• Do not overmix the batter once you add the flour; this will keep your brownies fudgy.
• Test for doneness by checking for a few moist crumbs on the toothpick rather than completely clean. This ensures a fudgy texture.

Variation

For a twist, you can add a layer of cream cheese frosting on top of the brownies after they cool. You can also substitute the peppermint bits with crushed candy canes for a more intense peppermint flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use dark chocolate cocoa powder instead?
Yes, dark chocolate cocoa powder can be used for a richer flavor.

2. Are there any egg substitutes I can use?
You can use unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) or flax eggs as substitutes for the eggs if needed.

3. How can I make these brownies gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free.

Fudgy Peppermint Brownies

These rich, decadent fudgy peppermint brownies feature a dense chocolate base topped with a cool, creamy peppermint frosting and a festive sprinkle of crushed candy canes, perfect for holiday indulgence.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 16 brownies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Brownie Layer

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour

Peppermint Frosting

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream
• 1/4 teaspoon salt pinch of

Garnish

• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Large saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Electric mixer
• Wire rack

Method

 

Brownies

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang.
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until combined.
3. Whisk in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly, then bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
6. Let brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.

Peppermint Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat softened butter until light and fluffy using an electric mixer or by hand.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, peppermint extract, milk or cream, and a pinch of salt, then beat until smooth and creamy.

Assemble

1. Once brownies are completely cool, spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the top.
2. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or candy canes over the frosting.
3. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

Ensure brownies are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting. For extra holiday cheer, add a drop of red food coloring to the frosting.