Easy Peppermint Brownies Recipe
Introduction
These easy peppermint brownies offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Rich, fudgy chocolate combined with refreshing mint and crunchy peppermint candy canes makes them perfect for holiday treats or any time you crave a festive dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp pure mint extract
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candy canes
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- Step 2: Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in the granulated sugar until combined.
- Step 3: Remove from heat; whisk in the eggs one at a time, then add the mint extract.
- Step 4: Gently fold in the cocoa powder and flour until just combined.
- Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
- Step 6: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top while the brownies are still warm. Allow to cool completely before slicing.
Tips & Variations
- For extra fudginess, reduce the flour by 2 tablespoons and add 2 tablespoons of melted chocolate chips.
- Substitute the peppermint candy canes with white chocolate chips for a milder mint flavor.
- If you don’t have mint extract, use peppermint oil sparingly—start with half a teaspoon to avoid overpowering the brownies.
Storage
Store peppermint brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat briefly in the microwave to restore softness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of mint extract?
Yes, you can, but the brownies will have a classic chocolate flavor without the refreshing mint twist.
How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?
Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter for fudgy brownies.
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Easy Peppermint Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies (2-inch squares) 1x
Description
These Easy Peppermint Brownies are a festive twist on classic chocolate brownies, infused with refreshing mint extract and topped with crushed peppermint candy canes. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a delightful treat any time of the year, these brownies are rich, fudgy, and bursting with seasonal flavor.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp pure mint extract
Topping
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candy canes
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Melt Butter and Combine with Sugar: Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat, then stir in the granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Eggs and Mint Extract: Remove the pan from heat and whisk in the eggs one at a time to fully incorporate them. Then add the pure mint extract for that refreshing peppermint flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the unsweetened cocoa powder and all-purpose flour until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain a fudgy texture.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Add Peppermint Topping and Cool: While the brownies are still warm, sprinkle the crushed peppermint candy canes over the top. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For extra fudgy brownies, avoid overbaking; check with a toothpick at 25 minutes.
- Use room temperature eggs to ensure better mixing and texture.
- Crushed candy canes can be substituted with peppermint baking chips for a similar effect.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Optional: Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: peppermint brownies, easy brownies, holiday dessert, chocolate peppermint, festive brownies, mint brownies, Christmas dessert
