Name: Irresistible Festive Peppermint Brownies for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: ½ cup salted butter (melted) (Adds richness and moisture; make sure it's melted and slightly cooled before mixing.); ¾ + 1 tablespoon light brown sugar (Provides sweetness and moisture, ensuring a gooey texture.); 2 large eggs (at room temperature) (Essential for binding; using room temperature eggs helps them mix in more smoothly.); ¾ tsp peppermint extract (Infuses the brownies with refreshing mint flavor; can substitute with vanilla extract.); ¾ cup all-purpose flour (Gives structure to the brownies; optional to sift for a smoother batter.); ¾ cup cocoa powder (Delivers rich chocolate flavor; using unsweetened cocoa is highly recommended.); ¾ tsp espresso powder (optional) (Enhances the chocolate flavor; can be omitted if not available.); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (Helps create a tender, soft texture within the brownies.); ½ tsp baking powder (Provides lift so the brownies rise slightly and remain fudgy.); ½ cup chocolate chips or chunks; ¼ cup salted butter (melted) (Forms the creamy base for the velvety frosting.); ½ cup cocoa powder (Enriches the flavor of the frosting for a chocolatey kick.); 2 ⅓ cups powdered sugar (sifted) (Sweetens the frosting and gives it that smooth, irresistible texture.); 2-3 tablespoons whole milk (Adjusts the frosting consistency; add more if it’s too thick.); crushed peppermint candy (for decoration) (Provides a festive touch and delightful crunch to finish your brownies beautifully.)

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As I sifted through the holiday recipe box, my eyes landed on a gem that instantly transported me back to childhood festivities. These Festive Peppermint Brownies are not just any dessert; they’re a delightful mix of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint that captures the spirit of the season. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up these decadent, fudgy brownies that will impress family and friends at your next holiday gathering. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy the bliss of homemade treats without spending hours in the kitchen. So, whether you’re cozying up by the fire or hosting a bustling holiday party, I can’t wait to share with you how to create these irresistible brownies. Ready to dive into a minty chocolate wonderland?

Why are these brownies so special?

Ultimate holiday treat: These Festive Peppermint Brownies are the perfect way to celebrate the season, combining rich chocolatey goodness and a refreshing mint twist that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight!

Easy to make: Whip these up in under an hour, making them an effortless addition to your holiday spread.

Crowd-pleaser: Bring smiles to family and friends as you serve these fudgy delights at parties or cozy get-togethers.

Customizable bliss: With simple swaps, like using Velvet Cheesecake Brownies or experimenting with your favorite chocolate chips, you can make this recipe your own!

Mouthwatering texture: Enjoy a soft, dense brownie topped with creamy frosting and a crunchy peppermint finish that makes for a delightful contrast in every bite.

Festive Peppermint Brownie Ingredients

For the Brownies
• ½ cup salted butter (melted) – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s melted and slightly cooled before mixing.
• ¾ + 1 tablespoon light brown sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture, ensuring a gooey texture in your Festive Peppermint Brownies.
• 2 large eggs (at room temperature) – Essential for binding; using room temperature eggs helps them mix in more smoothly.
• ¾ tsp peppermint extract – Infuses the brownies with refreshing mint flavor; can substitute with vanilla extract for a different taste.
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour – Gives structure to the brownies; optional to sift for a smoother batter.
• ¾ cup cocoa powder – Delivers rich chocolate flavor; using unsweetened cocoa is highly recommended.
• ¾ tsp espresso powder (optional) – Enhances the chocolate flavor; can be omitted if not available.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Helps create a tender, soft texture within the brownies.
• ½ tsp baking powder – Provides lift so the brownies rise slightly and remain fudgy.
• ½ cup chocolate chips or chunks – Adds texture with bursts of chocolate; feel free to use dark, milk, or white chocolate based on your preference.

For the Frosting
• ¼ cup salted butter (melted) – Forms the creamy base for the velvety frosting.
• ½ cup cocoa powder – Enriches the flavor of the frosting for a chocolatey kick.
• 2 ⅓ cups powdered sugar (sifted) – Sweetens the frosting and gives it that smooth, irresistible texture; sifting eliminates lumps.
• 2-3 tablespoons whole milk – Adjusts the frosting consistency; add more if it’s too thick.
• Crushed peppermint candy (for decoration) – Provides a festive touch and delightful crunch to finish your brownies beautifully.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Peppermint Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). While it heats up, take an 8-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Remember to butter the sides of the pan to ensure easy removal of your delicious Festive Peppermint Brownies once they’re baked!

Step 2: Make the Brownie Base
In a medium bowl, melt ½ cup of salted butter until smooth and slightly cooled. Stir in ¾ + 1 tablespoon of light brown sugar until fully combined. Next, add two large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, incorporate ¾ teaspoon of peppermint extract to infuse your brownies with that delightful minty flavor.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together ¾ cup of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of cocoa powder, ¾ teaspoon of optional espresso powder, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and ½ teaspoon of baking powder. This mixture will add texture and depth to your Festive Peppermint Brownies. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips or chunks into your brownie batter. Reserve a few chips for topping later. This will contribute delightful bursts of chocolate in each bite. Be careful not to overmix; you want the batter to remain thick and fudgy.

Step 5: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the brownies and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick. It should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter, indicating a perfect fudgy texture.

Step 6: Cool the Brownies
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan. This step is crucial so that the brownies set properly, making them easier to frost and slice. Patience will reward you with those perfectly fudgy Festive Peppermint Brownies later on!

Step 7: Make the Frosting
While the brownies cool, prepare the frosting by mixing together ¼ cup of melted salted butter, ½ cup of cocoa powder, and 2⅓ cups of sifted powdered sugar in a medium bowl. Add 2-3 tablespoons of whole milk, stirring until the mixture is smooth and the right consistency for spreading. Adjust with more milk if it’s too thick.

Step 8: Decorate the Brownies
Once your brownies have cooled, spread the creamy chocolate frosting over the top evenly. To give them a festive flair, sprinkle the frosted surface with crushed peppermint candy, creating a beautiful contrast and extra crunch that complements the rich chocolate.

Step 9: Slice and Serve
Finally, using a heated knife for clean edges, slice your Festive Peppermint Brownies into squares. Serve them warm or at room temperature and revel in the delicious combination of chocolate and mint, knowing you’ve created a holiday treat that everyone will adore!

Festive Peppermint Brownies Variations

Feel free to have fun exploring different twists on these delightful brownies that will make your taste buds cheer!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil in place of butter and a dairy-free chocolate alternative for a deliciously rich treat.
Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy these festive delights.
Nutty Addition: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and depth, providing a delightful contrast to the soft brownie.
Minty Chocolate Swirl: Swirl in a peppermint frosting before baking for an eye-catching marbled effect that enhances both flavor and presentation.
Extra Chocolatey: Add double the chocolate chips or use a mix of dark and white chocolate for a rich, decadent experience that no chocolate lover can resist.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to add a warm, spicy twist that balances the sweetness of the brownies beautifully.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap the chocolate frosting for a creamy vanilla or cream cheese frosting for an extra tangy flavor that complements the mint perfectly.

For a richer dessert experience, why not pair these brownies with a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce? You could also check out Velvet Cheesecake Brownies for another delightful holiday treat that your family will adore!

What to Serve with Festive Peppermint Brownies?

When indulging in these delightful treats, consider pairing them with savory sides and sweet companions that elevate your holiday experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream beautifully contrasts the rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint flavors.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Warm up your holiday gathering with a rich cup of peppermint hot chocolate, echoing the flavors of the brownies and enhancing the festive spirit.
Spiced Apple Cider: The warm spices of apple cider create a comforting beverage that balances the chocolaty sweetness, making it perfect for cozy gatherings.
Chocolate Bark: Offer a crunchy contrast by serving pieces of homemade chocolate bark topped with nuts or dried fruit—its texture complements the brownies’ fudginess.
Gingerbread Cookies: The spiced flavors of gingerbread cookies add warmth and tradition, making them a delightful addition to your dessert table.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each brownie not only adds creaminess but can also serve as a canvas for unique flavors like vanilla or almond.
Crushed Peppermint Candy: For a fun twist, sprinkle additional crushed peppermint candy on the plate for added crunch and a visual pop that ties in with the brownies.

How to Store and Freeze Festive Peppermint Brownies

At Room Temperature: Store your Festive Peppermint Brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and fudgy.
In the Fridge: To maintain the quality of the frosting, keep them refrigerated for up to a week. Just ensure they’re covered to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

Tips for the Best Festive Peppermint Brownies

Perfectly Melted Butter: Make sure your butter is melted, but slightly cooled. Hot butter can cook the eggs and lead to a curdled texture.
Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature. This helps them blend into the batter smoothly, giving you that gooey consistency in your Festive Peppermint Brownies.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies, losing that desired fudgy texture.
Check for Doneness Early: Every oven varies, so start checking for doneness at around 28 minutes. You want moist crumbs, not wet batter!
Cool Before Frosting: Allow your brownies to cool completely in the pan before adding the frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and losing its lovely texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Festive Peppermint Brownies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the brownie batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Alternatively, bake the brownies in advance and let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge to keep the frosting fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply slice them into squares and enjoy the rich, fudgy goodness. This way, you can effortlessly impress your guests with festive treats without spending all day in the kitchen!

Festive Peppermint Brownies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose ingredients when making these brownies?
Absolutely! For the best Festive Peppermint Brownies, select fresh ingredients with visual cues: opt for a butter that is creamy and free of any discoloration. Choose brown sugar that is moist and soft, and ensure your eggs are unblemished and at room temperature to enhance their incorporation into the batter. Fresh cocoa powder should be rich in aroma, and always check that your chocolate chips are smooth and shiny—this indicates freshness!

How do I store leftover brownies and how long do they last?
Very! You can store your Festive Peppermint Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to keep them fresher for longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, but ensure they are covered to maintain their moisture and prevent drying out.

Can I freeze my brownies and how do I do it?
Of course! If you want to stockpile your Festive Peppermint Brownies, wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy them later, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving—this retains their fudgy texture and rich flavor!

What should I do if my brownies turn out too dense?
It happens to the best of us! If your Festive Peppermint Brownies turn out denser than you anticipated, the most common culprit is overmixing. When combining your dry ingredients with the wet, mix just until incorporated. For next time, take care not to overbake as well; start checking for doneness via a toothpick at around 28 minutes. Aim for moist crumbs rather than a clean pick—this indicates a perfectly fudgy brownie!

Are these brownies safe for someone with nut allergies?
Very! The Festive Peppermint Brownies, as written, do not include any explicit nut ingredients. However, check for any cross-contamination warnings on your butter or chocolate products, as sometimes these could process in facilities that also handle nuts. If your friends have specific allergies, you might want to choose brands labeled as nut-free to keep everyone safe.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! To adapt your Festive Peppermint Brownies for a gluten-free diet, simply replace the all-purpose flour with an appropriate gluten-free flour blend. I recommend a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix, which usually contains xanthan gum to help replicate the structure that regular flour provides. Just be aware that the texture might vary slightly, but they’ll still be delicious!