Looking for a festive treat that combines rich chocolate with a minty twist? Look no further! These Chocolate Peppermint Bark Brownies are the perfect dessert for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll impress everyone with your baking skills. Join me as I share the recipe that guarantees to make your taste buds dance and your holiday celebrations extra special!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Indulgent Flavor Combination: The rich chocolate pairs perfectly with the refreshing peppermint, creating a delightful treat that's perfect for the holidays.
- Easy to Make: This brownie recipe comes together quickly, making it a great option for last-minute holiday baking.
- Festive Presentation: The white chocolate drizzle and crushed peppermint topping make these brownies visually appealing and perfect for sharing.
- Perfect for Gifting: These brownies are a sweet gift idea for friends and family during the holiday season, showing you care with a homemade treat.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make these tasty Chocolate Peppermint Bark Brownies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candies (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
Each ingredient plays a key role. The butter gives richness. The sugars add sweetness and moisture. Eggs bind everything together and add lift. Cocoa powder brings that deep chocolate flavor. The baking powder helps the brownies rise. Salt balances the sweetness.
The chocolate chips add melty goodness. Crushed peppermint candies give a fun crunch and festive taste. Finally, white chocolate chips create a beautiful topping that melts into the brownies.
When I bake these, I always make sure to have extra peppermint for topping. It adds a nice pop of color and a burst of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Pan
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
Mixing the Batter
- In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
- Whisk until the mixture looks smooth.
- Add four large eggs and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until it is creamy.
- In another bowl, sift together one cup of all-purpose flour, one cup of cocoa powder, one teaspoon of baking powder, and half a teaspoon of salt.
- Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined.
- Fold in one cup of chocolate chips and one cup of crushed peppermint candies. Be gentle to keep the chips whole.
Baking the Brownies
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick. It should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Adding Festive Toppings
- While the brownies cool, melt one cup of white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth.
- Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the cooled brownies. Spread it gently for a nice layer.
- Sprinkle extra crushed peppermint candies on top for decoration.
- Let the brownies set for about 30 minutes until the white chocolate hardens.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Brownie Texture
To get the best brownies, avoid over-mixing the batter. Mix until just combined. If you stir too much, the brownies can become tough.
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. If it’s too wet, bake a few more minutes.
Melting White Chocolate
When melting white chocolate, use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals. Stir after each interval to prevent burning. You can also use a double boiler for better control.
If you need a substitute for white chocolate, try using yogurt or cream cheese. Both can add a creamy texture with a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve brownies at room temperature for the best flavor. Warm them slightly in the microwave if you prefer them gooey.
For a festive touch, garnish with whole peppermint candies or a sprig of mint. It adds color and makes your treats look special.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: This helps the batter emulsify better and results in a fudgier brownie.
- Do Not Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the brownies tender and avoid a tough texture.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
- Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the brownies to cool fully before cutting will help them hold their shape better.
Variations
Add-ins or Swaps
You can change the chocolate chips for fun twists. Try milk chocolate or white chocolate chips. Each type brings a new flavor to your brownies. You can also add nuts for crunch. Chopped walnuts or pecans taste great. Dried fruits like cherries or cranberries add sweetness too. Get creative and mix in your favorites!
Healthier Options
If you want a healthier treat, swap out some ingredients. Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free choice. You can use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar. This gives a different taste and cuts down on refined sugar. For gluten-free brownies, use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. These changes keep the taste great while making it healthier.
Seasonal Variations
You can adjust these brownies for different holidays. For a winter treat, add some gingerbread extract to the batter. It gives a cozy warmth to each bite. You can also use colored white chocolate for fun. Red, green, or even blue can brighten up your brownies for any celebration. These small changes make your brownies special for every season!
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Brownies
Store your chocolate peppermint bark brownies at room temperature for up to four days. If you want them to last longer, place them in the fridge. Make sure to keep them in an airtight container. This will help keep them fresh and moist. If they are exposed to air, they may dry out quickly.
Freezing Brownies
You can freeze brownies to enjoy later. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer bag or airtight container. These can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want to eat them, take out the brownies and let them thaw at room temperature. For the best texture, you can warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Shelf Life
These brownies stay fresh for about four days at room temperature. If refrigerated, they can last up to a week. If you freeze them, the flavor and texture remain good for three months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying your treats.
FAQs
Can I use unsweetened chocolate instead of cocoa powder?
You can use unsweetened chocolate, but it changes the recipe. To replace 1 cup of cocoa powder, use 1 cup of unsweetened chocolate, but reduce the fat. Use 1 cup of butter instead of 1 cup of melted butter. This will keep the texture right.
How can I make these brownies more chocolatey?
To boost the chocolate flavor, add more chocolate chips. You can also mix in dark chocolate chips for a richer taste. If you want, you can use chocolate extract. It gives a deep chocolate taste without adding more ingredients.
What can I substitute for crushed peppermint candies?
You can use crushed candy canes if you want a similar taste. Dark chocolate mints also work well. If you prefer no mint, try crushed nuts or even toffee bits for a different crunch.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these brownies a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They taste great even after a day or two. Just add the toppings right before serving.
How can I adjust this recipe for a smaller batch?
To make a smaller batch, cut the ingredients in half. Use a smaller baking pan, like an 8x8 inch one. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, but check for doneness with a toothpick. Enjoy your smaller batch!
These brownies are simple and fun to make. We covered key ingredients, mixing, and baking steps. I shared tips for texture and melting chocolate, so you get great results. You can easily swap or add ingredients for your taste. For storage, keep them fresh or freeze for later. Enjoy your sweet treat, experiment, and share them with friends. Happy baking!
