Peppermint Bark Brownies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that embodies the spirit of the holiday season, look no further than these Peppermint Bark Brownies! These fudgy delights are a perfect blend of gooey chocolate and refreshing peppermint, making them an unforgettable addition to any festive gathering or cozy night in. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day, these brownies are sure to bring joy and warmth to your table.

I love how simple it is to whip up a batch of these brownies! They are perfect for busy weeknights or as a dessert for holiday parties. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy peppermint is nothing short of magical, reminding us all of Christmas cheer with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Holiday Cheer: These brownies capture the essence of Christmas with their festive flavors.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious brownies ready to go!
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the fudgy texture and minty crunch.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake them in advance and store them in the fridge for a quick dessert option later.
• Customizable Treat: Feel free to get creative with toppings or mix-ins!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Peppermint Bark Brownies is not only fun but also straightforward! You’ll be using simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup butter (unsalted, melted, 1 stick)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet)
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 2 teaspoons coconut oil (or shortening)
• ⅓ cup crushed peppermint candies (about 12 round candy peppermints or 3-4 candy canes crushed)

Variations

One of the best things about these Peppermint Bark Brownies is how flexible they are! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the chocolate chips: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• Add nuts: Toss in some walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Change up the extracts: Experiment with almond extract for a different twist!
• Mix in some caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce before adding the white chocolate layer for added sweetness.

How to Make Peppermint Bark Brownies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first: preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your brownies bake evenly and achieve that wonderful fudgy texture we all love.

Step 2: Prepare Your Batter

In a large mixing bowl, add your eggs and whisk them until the yolks break. Then, mix in melted butter, brown sugar, white sugar, vanilla extract, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the optional peppermint extract. This combination creates a rich base full of flavor!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until it’s well blended. Adding this mixture to your wet ingredients will create that luscious brownie batter. Remember not to overmix; we want our brownies soft and gooey!

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Once your batter is ready, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. This step adds even more melty goodness to each brownie!

Step 5: Bake Your Brownies

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for about 25-28 minutes. When you insert a toothpick into the center, it should come out fudgy but not wet—perfectly baked brownies!

Step 6: Add The White Chocolate Topping

While your brownies cool on the foil-lined pan, melt together the white chocolate chips and coconut oil in the microwave at half power. Stir every 30 seconds until smooth. This glossy topping adds a lovely finish!

Step 7: Finish with Crushed Peppermint

Pour that creamy white chocolate over your brownies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies. Pop them into the refrigerator for about 30-45 minutes to set up nicely before slicing into squares.

And there you have it—your Peppermint Bark Brownies are ready to impress! Enjoy these delightful treats while sharing warm moments with loved ones this season!

Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Bark Brownies

These fudgy peppermint bark brownies are sure to impress your friends and family, but a few tips can take your baking game to the next level!

• Use room temperature eggs – Room temperature eggs mix better into the batter, creating a smoother consistency and ensuring even baking.

• Don’t overmix the batter – Mixing just until combined helps keep your brownies fudgy and chewy. Overmixing can lead to a cake-like texture, which is not what we want!

• Check for doneness carefully – Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. This way, you can ensure that your brownies remain deliciously gooey.

• Let brownies cool completely – Allowing them to cool fully before cutting will help maintain their structure and prevent crumbling when slicing.

• Experiment with toppings – Feel free to add other fun toppings like crushed nuts or drizzles of dark chocolate for an extra layer of flavor!

How to Serve Peppermint Bark Brownies

Serving these delightful brownies is all about presentation! Here are some ideas that will make your treats even more appealing.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream – A dollop of whipped coconut cream on top adds a lightness and enhances the peppermint flavor perfectly.
• Chocolate Drizzle – A simple drizzle of melted semi-sweet chocolate over the white chocolate layer creates a beautiful contrast and an extra chocolaty taste.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream – The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the rich flavors of the brownies, making each bite even more indulgent.
• Fresh Berries – Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing balance that cuts through the richness of the brownies.
• Hot Cocoa – Pair with a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy dessert experience that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
• Peppermint Tea – A soothing peppermint tea can enhance the flavors in these brownies and make for a lovely finish to your dessert.

Enjoy creating this festive treat, and let the spirit of Christmas shine through in every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These fudgy peppermint bark brownies are perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time for those busy holiday weeks. With proper storage, you can enjoy them fresh for several days!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator where they’ll last about a week.

Freezing

• Allow the brownies to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label them with the date!

Reheating

• For a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience, microwave individual brownies for about 10-15 seconds.
• If reheating from frozen, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before warming them up.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Peppermint Bark Brownies.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips in Peppermint Bark Brownies?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will add a richer flavor to your brownies. Just keep an eye on the sweetness balance since dark chocolate is less sweet than semi-sweet.

How do I ensure my Peppermint Bark Brownies stay fudgy?

To keep your brownies fudgy, avoid overbaking them. Check for doneness around the 25-minute mark; a toothpick should come out with moist crumbs for that gooey texture.

What if I can’t find peppermint candies for my Peppermint Bark Brownies?

No problem! You can substitute crushed peppermint candies with crushed sugar-free mints or even use mini marshmallows sprinkled on top after baking for a different twist.

Can I make Peppermint Bark Brownies gluten-free?

Yes! You can easily replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well in baking. Just make sure it’s a one-to-one substitute designed for baking.

Final Thoughts

These Peppermint Bark Brownies are truly a festive delight that will bring smiles and warmth to any gathering. Their rich chocolate flavor combined with the refreshing peppermint makes them extra special during the holiday season. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Don’t forget to share these delicious treats with friends and family – they’ll love you for it!