Peppermint brownies are this crazy mix of rich chocolate and cool peppermint, and its an almost impossible treat for dessert lovers. It mixes the fudgy chewy feel of normal brownies with a fresh mint twist that is perfect for any time. When winter comes and the holidays get closer, these brownies becomes a big hit in many homes, bringing a bit of cheer with every bite.
People start loving peppermint brownies most in winter, mostly because they go with holiday parties and family gatherings. Whether you serve them at Christmas dinner or New Year’s, or just snack on them while watching a movie, they give you a warm and yummie feeling. The bright mint taste makes regular brownies feel new again, and both kids and adults love ’em.
The best thing about peppermint brownies is how you can make them your own. You can change the recipe for different diets so anyone can enjoy them. Plus, they look really cute when you topping with crushed candy canes or colourful sprinkles, so they stand out on any dessert plate. With each few tasty bites, this brownies captures the fun of the holidays and makes you feel happy.
The Origins of Brownies
Brownies have been around since the late 1800s, and noone knows the exact story how they started. Most people think a baker in the US forgot to add baking powder to a chocolate cake, and ended up with a dense, chewy bar instead. That mistake turned out to be amazing, and soon everyones wanted these fudgy squares.
They started as plain chocolate, but bakers have experiment with nuts, caramel, and even peppermint to make new flavors. You can find fudgy ones, cakey ones, and stuff in between. Because brownies are so flexible, they fit almost any taste.
Introduction of Flavors
Adding peppermint to brownies is a newer twist, but it caught on fast. Back in the Victorian times, mint was used in candies and desserts, so mixing mint with chocolate made sense. The cool taste of peppermint goes really well with deep chocolate, making a dessert thats both rich and refreshing.
When the holidays roll around, peppermint brownies are everywhere at parties and family get togethers. The mint and chocolate combo is perfect for winter, and the red and green bits from crushed candy canes make them look super festive. They taste great and also look awesome.
Peppermint Brownies: A Seasonal Favorite
Peppermint brownies are a big hit during the holiday season because of that unique mint-choco mix. It's a neat contrast between rich, fudgy chocolate and the zing of peppermint. You dont expect it but it works so good and feels festive.
These brownies are super flexible. You can bring them to a family lunch or a work party, and they'll still be a crowd-pleaser. They show the holiday spirit in a fresh way, and whether you eat them warm or cold, they won't disappoint.
The secret is using good ingredients. Dark chocolate gives a deep flavor that goes perfect with peppermint extract. And if you add toppings like candy cane pieces or sprinkles, you get a fun crunch and pop of color. Little changes like this keep the classic brownie recipe feeling new all winter.
Recipe: Making Perfect Peppermint Brownies
Ingredients
- Dark Chocolate: 1 cup
- Unsalted Butter: ½ cup
- Granulated Sugar: 1 cup
- Brown Sugar: ½ cup
- Eggs: 2 large
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup
- Cocoa Powder: ⅓ cup
- Peppermint Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
- Optional: Semisweet Chocolate Chips and Peppermint Candy Canes for Topping
Directions
- Preparation: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan, or line with parchment if you want easy cleanup.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a bowl over simmering water, melt the dark chocolate and butter together, stirring until it's smooth.
- Combine Sugars: Take the bowl off heat and stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar until everything is mixed.
- Add Eggs: Crack in the eggs, one at a time, and stir until the batter is even. I didn't knew this step was so fun.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Fold in flour, cocoa powder, peppermint extract, and salt. Optional: stir in chocolate chips for extra choc.
- Bake: Pour the batter into your pan and bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick in the center has a few moist crumbs on it.
- Finish with Toppings: Let the brownies cool a bit, then sprinkle crushed candy canes on top. Wait till its mostly cool so the candy doesn't sink.
Advice for the Best Brownies
- Use good quality chocolate for the richest flavor.
- Dont overbake; stick a toothpick in the center to test if its done.
- Let them cool all the way before cutting so you get clean edges.
Variations on Peppermint Brownies
Gluten-Free Option
If you need gluten-free, you can swap the all-purpose flour for almond flour or another GF flour. You might need to tweek the amount of flour or liquid to get the right texture.
Vegan Version
A vegan version uses flax eggs or applesauce instead of eggs, and dairy-free chocolate. Perfect if you follows a plant-based diet.
Additional Flavor Twists
- Adding Coffee: A little brewed coffee in the batter can boost the chocolate taste and make it deeper.
- Swirling in Peppermint Frosting: For extra treat, spread peppermint frosting on top for a creamy mint layer.
Serving and Enjoying Peppermint Brownies
Presentation Tips
Cut brownies into neat squares for a nice look. Put them on a pretty plate to make them stand out on the dessert table. They go really well with coffee, milk, or even vanilla ice cream.
Best Ways to Store
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature up to 4 days. You can freeze them for up to 3 months—just wrap in plastic and put in a freezer bag.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Peppermint Brownies
Can I swap peppermint extract with other flavors?
Yes, you can try vanilla or almond extract for a different taste. But keep in mind it'll taste completely different, not minty.
How do I know when my brownies are done?
Brownies are done when the edges pull away from the pan a little and a toothpick stuck in the middle comes out with a few moist crumbs. Dont overbake.
What are some good toppings for peppermint brownies?
Try crushed candy canes, colourfull sprinkles, chocolate ganache, or a drizzle of white chocolate. They all add taste and look nice.
How long do peppermint brownies last?
At room temp they last about 4 days. If you freeze them, they can keep up to 3 months.
Can I freeze peppermint brownies?
Yes, peppermint brownies freeze well. Wrap them tight to prevent freezer burn before putting them in the freezer.
Conclusion
Peppermint brownies are a tasty blend of rich chocolate and fresh mint, making them great for holiday funs and parties. You can change them up for different diets, so everyone can enjoy these festive treats. Give the recipe a try and share the joy and flavour of peppermint brownies this season!
peppermint brownies
Equipment
- 1 9x13 inch baking pan
- 1 mixing bowls
- 1 electric mixer (optional)
- 1 rubber spatula
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 parchment paper (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter 2 sticks
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract For a more intense flavor, you can increase to 1 ½ teaspoons.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup chocolate chips Optional
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candy canes or peppermint wafers For topping.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the baking pan lightly or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Melt the unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Add the granulated sugar to the melted butter and mix until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Incorporate the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If desired, fold in the chocolate chips.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the crushed peppermint candy over the top, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
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