Fudgy Peppermint Brownies

Embrace the festive season with these Fudgy Peppermint Brownies. These rich, fudgy brownies are infused with crushed peppermint bits, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter treats. The delightful blend of chocolate and mint offers a unique taste that will impress your friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these brownies in no time, making them ideal for last-minute dessert cravings.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a mouthwatering treat that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a cozy night in, these brownies fit right into any setting.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the amount of peppermint or add your favorite mix-ins to make this recipe your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Microwave-safe bowl or saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: A sturdy 8×8-inch pan ensures even baking and helps achieve the perfect brownie texture.
• Parchment Paper: This makes it easy to lift the brownies out after baking without sticking, resulting in cleaner cuts.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (divided)
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

How to Make Fudgy Peppermint Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Melt Butter

In a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop, melt the butter. Allow it to cool slightly before mixing it with other ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.

Step 5: Add Peppermint and Chocolate

Fold in half of the crushed peppermint candies along with chocolate chips if you choose to include them.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining crushed peppermint candies on top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your delicious Fudgy Peppermint Brownies!

How to Serve Fudgy Peppermint Brownies

Fudgy Peppermint Brownies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these brownies can be served to enhance any occasion.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a creamy contrast to the rich brownies.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla or mint chocolate chip ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Drizzle some melted chocolate sauce over each brownie square for an extra touch of sweetness and richness.

Festive Garnish

• Top with additional crushed peppermint candies or sprinkles for a festive look that appeals during the holiday season.

Pair with Hot Cocoa

• Serve alongside a steaming cup of hot cocoa, creating a cozy and inviting dessert experience.

How to Perfect Fudgy Peppermint Brownies

To ensure your Fudgy Peppermint Brownies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep the brownies fudgy and moist. Overmixing can lead to cake-like brownies.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating that they are perfectly baked.
• Allow Cooling Time: Let the brownies cool completely before cutting. This helps them set and makes them easier to slice.

Best Side Dishes for Fudgy Peppermint Brownies

Fudgy Peppermint Brownies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some perfect choices:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a mix of seasonal fruits can balance the sweetness of the brownies.
2. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For an extra treat, serve classic chocolate chip cookies alongside your brownies.
3. Mint Tea: A warm cup of mint tea enhances the peppermint flavor and provides a soothing contrast.
4. Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola adds texture and can be sprinkled on top of the brownies for added flavor.
5. Cheesecake Bites: Creamy cheesecake bites serve as an elegant pairing that complements the fudginess nicely.
6. Hot Apple Cider: This warm beverage brings cozy spices that work well with chocolate desserts like these brownies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Fudgy Peppermint Brownies, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven properly before baking. An unheated oven can lead to uneven baking and dry brownies.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can result in tough brownies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for that fudgy texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accuracy. Incorrect measurements can affect the final taste and texture.
• Skipping Parchment Paper: Lining your baking pan with parchment paper helps in easy removal and clean-up. Skipping this step may cause brownies to stick.
• Cutting Too Soon: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them into squares. Cutting them too early will lead to messy pieces.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing Fudgy Peppermint Brownies

• Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Fudgy Peppermint Brownies

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Warm brownies for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds for a soft brownie.
• Stovetop: Place a brownie in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about making Fudgy Peppermint Brownies.

Can I make vegan Fudgy Peppermint Brownies?

Yes! Replace eggs with flax eggs or applesauce and use vegan butter for a delicious vegan version.

How do I achieve extra fudginess in my brownies?

To enhance fudginess, slightly underbake the brownies so they remain moist and gooey inside.

What can I use instead of peppermint candies?

If you prefer, crushed chocolate mint candies or even peppermint extract can be good alternatives for flavoring.

How long do Fudgy Peppermint Brownies last?

When stored properly, they last about 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Fudgy Peppermint Brownies are not only a festive treat but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize them with different toppings or mix-ins like nuts or additional chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful balance of chocolate and mint flavors!

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Fudgy Peppermint Brownies

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 16 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the festive spirit with these rich Fudgy Peppermint Brownies, perfect for holiday gatherings and cozy winter nights. Each brownie boasts a delightful blend of luscious chocolate and refreshing peppermint, creating a treat that will impress everyone around your table. Easy to make and customizable, these brownies are not only quick to whip up but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with ice cream, they deliver a deliciously decadent experience that captures the essence of the season.

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Ingredients

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• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (divided)
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan and let it cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, mix melted butter and sugar until smooth, then stir in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt; gradually add to the wet mixture until combined.
5. Fold in half of the crushed peppermint candies and chocolate chips if using.
6. Pour batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly and topping with remaining peppermint candies.
7. Bake for about 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
8. Cool completely before cutting into squares.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 brownie (40g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 35mg