Imagine biting into the ultimate chocolate treat: intensely chocolaty, satisfyingly chewy, and laced with a refreshing hint of mint. These Rich and Fudgy Peppermint Brownies are everything you love about decadent brownies, with a cool, festive twist that makes them perfect for holidays or any occasion that calls for an extra-special dessert. Each square packs that irresistible combination of dense chocolate, gooey center, and a peppermint crunch on top—a true crowd-pleaser you’ll want to bake on repeat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of these brownies is how everyday pantry staples join forces to create holiday magic. Every ingredient brings something crucial—whether it’s deep flavor, addictive texture, or that signature peppermint sparkle.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, melted): Using melted butter gives these brownies their signature fudginess and rich taste.
- Granulated sugar (2 cups): Not just for sweetness—it also creates that delicate, crinkly top.
- Large eggs (4): Eggs help bind the brownies and create a dense, moist texture.
- Peppermint extract (1 teaspoon): The star flavor—just the right amount to give a clean, cooling mint essence without overpowering the chocolate.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors and enhances the chocolatey goodness.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): Keeps the brownies from getting cakey; just enough structure without losing chewiness.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1 cup): For that intense, dark chocolate flavor every great brownie needs.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances out the sweetness and sharpens the flavors.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Provides just a touch of lift, so the brownies aren’t overly dense.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Melty chocolate puddles in every bite—yes, please!
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (1/2 cup): Adds a pretty finish and craveable crunch on top.
How to Make Rich and Fudgy Peppermint Brownies
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper if you want super easy removal, or just lightly grease it and you’ll be set. This little bit of prep means picture-perfect brownies when it’s time to slice—no sticking, no mess.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until it’s smooth and glossy. Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is well incorporated before adding the next. Now stir in that glorious peppermint extract and vanilla extract—the kitchen will already be smelling dreamy at this point!
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures the brownies have a uniform texture and that every bite tastes just as amazing as the last.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, folding just until you can’t see streaks of flour. Be gentle here—overmixing can make brownies tough instead of fudgy. Now, toss in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, stirring them through for extra pockets of gooey, melted chocolate.
Step 5: Pour, Top, and Bake
Pour the luscious batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Scatter the crushed peppermint candies all over the top for that festive, crunchy finish. Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs—no raw batter, but you want to keep that perfect fudginess, so don’t overbake!
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. It’s tempting to dig in early, but a little patience here pays off big time in terms of flavor and texture. Once cool, lift them out (thanks, parchment!) and enjoy the sight of those jewel-bright peppermint pieces against deep chocolate.
How to Serve Rich and Fudgy Peppermint Brownies
Garnishes
A drizzle of melted white chocolate zig-zagged over each square takes these brownies from delicious to dazzling. For even more holiday cheer, sprinkle a few extra shards of crushed peppermint on top right before serving—they’ll glisten beautifully and add a satisfying pop.
Side Dishes
These brownies are rich on their own, but they also play incredibly well with others. Try pairing them with vanilla bean ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a scoop of peppermint gelato if you want to double-down on the minty magic!
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your Rich and Fudgy Peppermint Brownies into mini squares for a holiday cookie platter or stack them and tie with a festive ribbon for a sweet homemade gift. For parties, serve them on a platter surrounded by fresh mint leaves or berries for an extra pop of color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be happily stashed in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to four days. If stacking, layer parchment paper between slices to keep the peppermint topping neat.
Freezing
Your Rich and Fudgy Peppermint Brownies freeze beautifully! Once cooled, cut them into squares, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, and place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months, perfect for making ahead when you want a little minty chocolate fix on hand.
Reheating
If you prefer your brownies warm and melty, a quick zap in the microwave (10–15 seconds per square) is all you need, even straight from the freezer. That slight warmth reawakens the chocolate and softens the peppermint crunch, making them taste bakery-fresh.
FAQs
Can I make these brownies without peppermint extract?
Yes, but you’ll lose the signature minty note that makes these brownies special. You can substitute with additional vanilla extract for a classic fudgy chocolate version, or try another extract like almond for a creative twist.
What’s the best way to crush peppermint candies or candy canes?
Place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan to gently crush them. For a uniform look, aim for a mix of fine dust and small shards—it gives a lovely texture and festive appearance.
Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! Using dark chocolate chips will give the brownies an even deeper cocoa flavor and pair beautifully with the peppermint. Adjust based on your chocolate preference.
Why do my brownies sometimes come out dry?
Most often, dry brownies are a result of overbaking. Keep a close eye on the timer and check with a toothpick: you want moist crumbs, not a clean pick. Also, measuring your flour with the spoon-and-level method helps prevent adding too much.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Yes, just use a larger pan or bake two pans at once. Make sure the batter is spread evenly, and check for doneness in the center since thicker layers may need a few extra minutes in the oven.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the mood for a chocolate treat that feels both nostalgic and brand new, whip up a batch of Rich and Fudgy Peppermint Brownies. The combination of deep cocoa, gooeyness, and bright peppermint is simply unbeatable—share them with friends, serve at your next gathering, or savor solo with a mug of something cozy. You’ll fall for them, bite after delightful bite!
Print
Rich and Fudgy Peppermint Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and fudgy goodness of these Peppermint Brownies. A perfect blend of chocolate and mint flavors, these brownies are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Topping:
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in peppermint and vanilla extracts.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
- Add chocolate chips: Gently stir in the chocolate chips. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Add topping and bake: Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Notes
- For an extra festive touch, drizzle the cooled brownies with melted white chocolate and more crushed peppermint.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
