Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Brownies
These Peppermint Brownies are rich, chocolatey, and have a fresh peppermint kick. They are easy to make with simple steps and common ingredients. The peppermint makes them feel special for holidays and quiet nights alike. You can bake them for a party, a gift, or a tasty treat at home. The texture is soft and moist, and the chocolate chips add small pockets of melted chocolate. You will love how a little peppermint extract turns plain brownies into something bright and seasonal.
Why Make This Recipe
Make this recipe when you want a quick, tasty dessert that feels festive. The recipe uses a basic batter but adds peppermint for a fresh flavor. It only takes a few minutes to mix and under half an hour to bake. That makes these brownies good for last-minute plans or for a simple baking session with kids. The steps are clear and direct, and you do not need special equipment. You also get a dessert that serves many people from just one 9×13 pan.
introduction
This introduction tells you what the Peppermint Brownies are and how they fit into your baking plan. The recipe uses everyday pantry items like flour, sugar, and cocoa powder, plus a small amount of peppermint extract to lift the taste. If you like simple desserts that still feel special, these brownies are for you. If you want to compare a different easy brownie method while you bake, check a related one-bowl option like one-bowl white chocolate brownies for ideas on simplifying the process even more.
Why Make This Recipe
You should try this recipe because it balances quick prep with great flavor. The peppermint is not heavy; it gives a clear, cool note that pairs well with deep chocolate. These brownies are not too sweet, and you can adjust the chocolate chips or dust with powdered sugar for a lighter finish. The recipe is forgiving, so small changes still work. Bake this when you want a classic brownie with a small twist that feels seasonal and fresh.
What You Need for Peppermint Brownies
You need a few basic tools and a 9×13 inch pan. Use a medium saucepan for melting butter and a mixing bowl for combining the batter. A rubber spatula or wooden spoon works well for folding in the chips. You will also need measuring cups and spoons, and an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). If you have a wire rack to cool the pan, that helps speed cooling. Nothing fancy is required, and most items are already in a home kitchen.
How to Make Peppermint Brownies
Follow these steps to make the brownies without stress. Work in order and let the pan cool a bit before cutting.
- Preheat and prepare. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. This keeps the brownies from sticking and helps them have clean edges.
- Melt butter and mix sugar. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Stir until the mix is smooth and the eggs are fully mixed in.
- Add dry ingredients. Beat in the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Mix until you have an even batter and no dry streaks remain.
- Add flavor and chips. Fold in the chocolate chips and peppermint extract. Mix gently so the chips spread through the batter without breaking up.
- Bake. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and finish. Let cool in the pan before dusting with powdered sugar and cutting into squares. Cooling helps set the brownies so they cut without falling apart.
These clear steps will help you get moist, even brownies each time.
Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter, 2 cups granulated sugar, 4 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 cup chocolate chips, 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract, Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
- Beat in the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and peppermint extract.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan before dusting with powdered sugar and cutting into squares.
Best Ways to Serve Peppermint Brownies
Serve these brownies at room temperature or slightly warm. A warm brownie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes a simple, lovely dessert. Dust with powdered sugar for a pretty look, or add crushed candy cane on top for more peppermint crunch. You can cut them into small squares as finger food for parties or larger pieces for dessert plates. Pair them with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. If you want a fancier presentation, serve with whipped cream and a small mint leaf. For a variation that keeps things simple, follow tips similar to other easy brownie styles, such as the one shown in the 1-bowl white chocolate brownies approach, to make serving quick.
How to Store Peppermint Brownies
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If your home is warm, keep them in the fridge for up to five days. To freeze, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Frozen brownies keep well for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature or heat briefly in the microwave to serve warm. If you dusted with powdered sugar, re-dust after reheating to keep the look fresh.
Easy Tips to Make Peppermint Brownies
- Measure carefully. Use level measuring cups for flour and cocoa so the batter stays balanced.
- Do not overmix. Stir until the dry ingredients are just combined for a moist texture.
- Check bake time. Ovens vary, so start checking at 18 minutes. The toothpick should come out mostly clean.
- Use good cocoa. A better cocoa powder gives stronger chocolate flavor without extra sugar.
- Add chips last. Fold in chips at the end so they do not sink or melt fully into the batter.
- Peppermint control. Use 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract; it gives a clear peppermint note without overpowering the chocolate. Add a tiny bit more only if you like a stronger mint flavor.
Try These Variations of Peppermint Brownies
- Mint Swirl: Mix a small amount of mint frosting and swirl it in the batter before baking.
- Candy Topping: Press crushed candy cane on top before baking finish or right after baking while warm.
- Fudge Layer: Spread a thin layer of chocolate ganache over cooled brownies for a glossy top.
- Peppermint Cheesecake Brownies: Add a cream cheese layer with a touch of peppermint for rich slices.
- Nutty Mint: Fold in chopped toasted nuts for crunch.
Each variation uses the same base batter and adds one easy step to change the texture or presentation.
Common Questions About Peppermint Brownies
Q: Can I use peppermint oil instead of peppermint extract?
A: Peppermint oil is stronger. Use much less if you use oil. Start with a drop and taste the batter carefully.
Q: Can I use mini candy canes instead of chips?
A: Yes. Crush them and sprinkle on top before the brownies finish baking or after they cool. They add crunch and more peppermint.
Q: How do I make brownies fudgier?
A: Reduce the baking time a little and do not overmix the batter. Fudgier brownies often bake a little less so they stay moist.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: You can try a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend. Texture may change, so test a small batch first.
Q: Can I skip the chocolate chips?
A: Yes. The brownies will still be rich and chocolatey from the cocoa powder. Chips add pockets of melted chocolate but are optional.
Final Thoughts
These Peppermint Brownies are an easy way to add a fresh twist to a classic dessert. The recipe suits bakers of all levels and works well for gifts, parties, or a cozy night at home. The steps are simple and clear, and you can adjust them to your taste. Use the tips and variations to change texture, add crunch, or sweeten the presentation. With a little care on mixing and baking time, you will have a reliable treat that many people will enjoy.
Ready to Give It a Try?
Gather your ingredients and tools, preheat your oven, and try this simple recipe. The peppermint makes these brownies stand out without adding extra work. Take a photo, share with family or friends, and enjoy a warm, chocolatey bite.
Conclusion
If you want another take on peppermint and chocolate in a brownie-style dessert, you can compare methods and ideas with the recipe on Easy Peppermint Brownies – Flavor the Moments.
Print
Peppermint Brownies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Rich, chocolatey brownies with a fresh peppermint kick, perfect for holidays and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Beat in the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder until no dry streaks remain.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and peppermint extract gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan before dusting with powdered sugar and cutting into squares.
Notes
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, dust with powdered sugar, or add crushed candy cane on top for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg