There’s nothing quite like the festive cheer that fills the air during the holiday season, and I’ve found that it’s best captured in a rich batch of fudgy peppermint brownies. As the scent of melting chocolate and refreshing peppermint wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia for the countless celebrations spent with family and friends.
These brownies aren’t just any dessert; they are decadence redefined, combining high-quality bittersweet chocolate with a velvety fudge topping and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for that perfect crunch. Ideal for gatherings, or simply for treating yourself after a long day, they strike the perfect balance between elegance and comfort, making them a go-to dessert throughout the chilly months.
So, gather your ingredients and prepare to indulge in a baking experience that marries ease with wow-factor, because these fudgy peppermint brownies are about to become your new holiday tradition!
Why are Fudgy Peppermint Brownies a Must-Try?
Unmatched indulgence: These brownies deliver a rich, fudgy experience that’s perfect for any chocolate lover.
Baking made easy: With straightforward steps, you’ll whip these up in no time, perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Impressive presentation: The swirls of dark and white fudge, alongside vibrant candy cane sprinkles, make for a stunning dessert.
Versatile options: Feeling adventurous? Try swapping peppermint for another extract, or add nuts for an extra crunch.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether at a potluck or family gathering, these brownies will be the star of the dessert table.
Fudgy Peppermint Brownies Ingredients
For the Brownies
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the brownies; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and depth of flavor; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index option.
• Unsalted Butter – Contributes to the fudgy texture; swap with vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds richness; using room-temperature eggs improves emulsification.
• Dark Chocolate Chips – Enhances the chocolate flavor in both batter and topping; choose high-quality chocolate for the best results.
• Bittersweet Chocolate – Essential for the rich base; around 70% cacao is ideal for flavor, although semisweet can sweeten the deal.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Boosts chocolate flavor dramatically; Dutch-process can offer a milder taste.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetener for the brownies; consider granulated erythritol if you want to make them low-sugar brownies.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Peppermint Extract – Adds that festive flavor; opt for pure extract for the best taste, but be cautious with the amounts.
For the Fudge Layers
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – Creates a creamy texture for the fudge layers; use dairy-free condensed milk for a vegan option.
• White Chocolate Chips – Sweetness and creaminess in the fudge layer; use dairy-free alternatives for a vegan treat.
• Dark Chocolate – Another layer of rich deliciousness; melting it with condensed milk and vanilla makes it a standout topping.
For the Topping
• Crushed Candy Canes – Provides the crunchy, festive flair; finely crush them for an elegant finish, or use chocolate sprinkles if preferred.
With these Fudgy Peppermint Brownies ingredients at the ready, you’re one step closer to creating a dessert that’s sure to delight every taste bud during this joyful season!
How to Make Fudgy Peppermint Brownies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting later.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. This solid base is essential for the structure of your brownies.
Prepare Brownie Batter: Using a double boiler, melt the unsalted butter and bittersweet chocolate together until smooth. Remove from the heat, whisk in brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder until fully combined. Let it cool slightly before adding in the eggs and peppermint extract.
Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the chocolate mixture with a spatula, being careful not to overmix. Add in the chocolate chips and coarsely crushed candy canes, just enough to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
Bake: Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs, which indicates fudginess.
Prepare Fudge Layers: While brownies are baking, melt white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk together in a separate bowl. Add peppermint extract, stirring until smooth. Once brownies are out, carefully pour this mixture over them and let cool.
Make Dark Fudge Layer: In another pot, melt dark chocolate with sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until silky. Pour this over the white chocolate layer and gently spread it for an even finish, then sprinkle with finely crushed candy canes.
Chill Again: Allow the brownies to chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours, or until set. Once cooled, lift the brownies out using the parchment overhang and slice into squares.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a festive cup of hot cocoa.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Fudgy Peppermint Brownies
- Stay Fudgy: Avoid overbaking your brownies; they should have a few moist crumbs clinging to the toothpick when testing for doneness.
- Chocolate Care: Melt your chocolate using a double boiler or low heat; this prevents burning and ensures a smooth, fudgy texture.
- Cool Before Topping: Let the fudge layers cool slightly before adding crushed candy canes, maintaining their delightful crunch in every bite.
- Slice for Clean Edges: Chill your brownies thoroughly before cutting them into squares; this helps achieve perfect, clean edges for a polished look.
- Flavor Swaps: For a personalized touch, consider substituting peppermint with another flavor extract, enhancing your fudgy peppermint brownies.
What to Serve with Fudgy Peppermint Brownies?
These delicious brownies are an indulgent treat, perfect to pair with delightful accompaniments for a cozy gathering.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess complements the rich chocolate, creating a heavenly contrast that melts in your mouth.
Hot Chocolate: A warm, chocolaty drink enhances the brownie’s fudgy texture and adds a festive touch to your dessert experience.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream balances the density of the brownies, making each bite feel lighter.
Peppermint Tea: This refreshing drink harmonizes the peppermint flavor, rounding off the sweetness while keeping it cozy and warm.
Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle over the brownies for extra decadence, intensifying that rich chocolate flavor with a luxurious finish.
Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries provides a bright flavor contrast, enhancing the indulgence without overpowering it.
Crunchy Nuts: Sprinkling chopped walnuts or almonds adds a satisfying crunch, elevating the overall texture of your dessert.
Milkshakes: A chocolate or peppermint milkshake creates a luscious pairing that kids and adults alike will adore.
Espresso or Coffee: The bold flavor of coffee brings out the chocolate’s richness, elevating the taste experience with a warm finish.
Gingerbread Cookies: These spice-infused treats add a festive flair, complementing the peppermint notes while celebrating the season.
Fudgy Peppermint Brownies Variations
Embrace your creative side with these delightful twists on fudgy peppermint brownies, allowing your taste buds to explore new realms of flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a universally loved treat.
- Nutty Delight: Add coarsely chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a crunchy texture that beautifully complements the fudge.
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips to make this treat suitable for plant-based eaters while maintaining its lusciousness.
- Different Extract: Swap peppermint extract for almond or orange extract for a unique twist that brightens the brownies with different flavor profiles.
- Minty Chip Boost: Toss in some mint chocolate chips for extra minty goodness and added texture throughout the brownies.
- Caramel Swirl: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce in the brownie batter before baking to introduce a rich layer of sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for a tantalizing surprise.
- Fudge Layer Variations: Experiment with a white chocolate fudge layer by adding crushed Oreo cookies for a cookies-and-cream influence to your brownies.
With these variations, you can customize your fudgy peppermint brownies, making every baking session a joyous adventure!
Make Ahead Options
These Fudgy Peppermint Brownies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the brownie batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, which keeps the texture just as fudgy and delicious. In addition, the fudge layers can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before pouring over the brownies. Just ensure the fudge layers are completely cool before refrigerating to prevent condensation. When you’re ready to serve, bake the brownies, chill them until set, and slice into squares for a delightful treat that’s great for any holiday gathering or simply to indulge in!
Storage Tips for Fudgy Peppermint Brownies
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fudgy and fresh. Avoid direct sunlight to maintain quality.
Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. Wrap them tightly to prevent any drying out and to preserve their rich flavor.
Freezer: Fudgy peppermint brownies freeze beautifully! Place in a freezer-safe container or wrap slices in plastic wrap, then in foil for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will restore their gooeyness and make the chocolate flavor pop!
Fudgy Peppermint Brownies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right peppermint extract?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for pure peppermint extract. This ensures a clean and potent taste without any artificial aftertastes that can come from synthetic extracts. Avoid using excessive amounts to prevent overpowering your brownies; a teaspoon usually does the trick for a balanced flavor.
How should I store leftover Fudgy Peppermint Brownies?
Very! To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have leftovers beyond that, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just wrap them tightly to prevent drying out while maintaining their rich flavor.
Can I freeze Fudgy Peppermint Brownies?
Yes, you can! They freeze beautifully, making them perfect for preparing in advance. To freeze, place the brownies in a freezer-safe container or wrap slices in plastic wrap and then foil. They’ll maintain their deliciousness for up to 3 months! To enjoy, just microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds to revive that fudgy texture.
What should I do if my brownies end up too cakey?
Don’t worry! If your brownies turn out less fudgy than you’d like, it could be due to overbaking. Always check them 5 minutes before the suggested baking time is up; the toothpick should have a few moist crumbs. Next time, try reducing the bake time slightly or ensuring your oven temperature is accurately calibrated.
Are Fudgy Peppermint Brownies suitable for people with allergies?
Absolutely! However, be cautious as these brownies contain eggs and dairy. For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips, and for egg substitutes, try using flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg). Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Decadent Fudgy Peppermint Brownies You'll Love This Holiday
Equipment
- - 9×13-inch baking pan
- double boiler
- Medium bowl
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the Brownies
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- 1 cup Brown Sugar Can be replaced with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index option.
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Swap with vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- 2 large Large Eggs Using room-temperature eggs improves emulsification.
- 1 cup Dark Chocolate Chips Choose high-quality chocolate for the best results.
- 8 oz Bittersweet Chocolate Around 70% cacao is ideal for flavor.
- 1/2 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder Dutch-process can offer a milder taste.
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar Consider granulated erythritol for low-sugar brownies.
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract Opt for pure extract for the best taste.
For the Fudge Layers
- 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk Use dairy-free condensed milk for a vegan option.
- 1 cup White Chocolate Chips Use dairy-free alternatives for a vegan treat.
- 4 oz Dark Chocolate Melting it with condensed milk makes it a standout topping.
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup Crushed Candy Canes Finely crush for an elegant finish.
Instructions
How to Make Fudgy Peppermint Brownies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting later.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt.
- Using a double boiler, melt the unsalted butter and bittersweet chocolate together until smooth. Remove from heat, then whisk in brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder until fully combined.
- Let it cool slightly before adding in the eggs and peppermint extract.
- Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the chocolate mixture with a spatula, careful not to overmix.
- Add chocolate chips and coarsely crushed candy canes, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- While brownies are baking, melt white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk together in a separate bowl. Stir in peppermint extract until smooth.
- Once brownies are out, carefully pour this mixture over them and let cool.
- In another pot, melt dark chocolate with sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until silky. Pour this over the white chocolate layer and gently spread it.
- Sprinkle with finely crushed candy canes. Allow the brownies to chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours, or until set.
- Lift the brownies out using the parchment overhang and slice into squares.