As I sifted through my pantry, the unmistakable scent of cocoa danced in the air, igniting my holiday spirit. That’s when the idea hit me: Peppermint Bark Brownies! These festive delights marry a rich, fudgy chocolate base with a velvety white chocolate topping and a sprinkle of peppermint crunch that just sings of celebration. Not only are they quick to whip up, making them perfect for unexpected guests, but they also offer a delightful twist on classic holiday treats—ideal for your cozy gatherings or as a sweet gift. Plus, they can easily be made dairy-free, allowing everyone to join in the fun. Curious about how to create these seasonal wonders? Let’s dive in!
Why Choose Peppermint Bark Brownies?
Delightfully Festive: These Peppermint Bark Brownies aren’t just a treat; they’re a celebration on a plate, perfect for any holiday gathering.
Decadent Layers: Indulge in the rich chocolate base paired with a creamy white chocolate topping, delivering an unparalleled, luxurious flavor experience.
Versatile Options: Easily swap ingredients, like using coconut oil for a dairy-free version, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this festive dessert.
Quick and Easy: With a simple baking process, these brownies can be prepared in no time—ideal for spontaneous holiday gatherings or sweet surprise gifts.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether serving them at a holiday party or enjoying them with family, these brownies are sure to impress, leaving everyone asking for the recipe! Get the ultimate indulgence with our Better Than Brownies.
Charming Presentation: With vibrant peppermint bits on top, they not only taste amazing but also look stunning, making them a delightful centerpiece for any dessert table.
Peppermint Bark Brownie Ingredients
For the Brownies
• Eggs – Provides moisture and structure. Substitution: Use flax eggs for a vegan option.
• Butter – Adds richness and flavor. Substitution: Can replace with coconut oil for dairy-free.
• Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and a slight caramel flavor.
• White Sugar – Balances sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor. Use pure vanilla for best taste.
• Peppermint Extract – Optional, intensifies mint flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – Acts as the structure of the brownies.
• Cocoa Powder – Provides deep chocolate flavor. Use good quality cocoa for best results.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds texture and richness. Substitution: Use dairy-free chips to make it vegan.
For the Topping
• White Chocolate Chips – Topping layer; melts for a creamy finish. Substitution: Use dairy-free white chocolate for a vegan option.
• Coconut Oil – Helps in melting white chocolate smoothly.
For Garnishing
• Crushed Peppermint – Adds a crunchy, festive finish to the brownies. The perfect touch for your Peppermint Bark Brownies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Bark Brownies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with foil or parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. Lightly coat the lining and sides of the pan with cooking spray to ensure your Peppermint Bark Brownies come out effortlessly.
Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs until they are fully blended. Next, add the melted butter along with brown sugar, white sugar, and vanilla extract. If you adore that extra zing of mint, incorporate the optional peppermint extract. Mix these ingredients until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy, showcasing that rich flavor foundation for your brownies.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. This process not only combines the dry ingredients evenly but also aerates the cocoa. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as you want to maintain a fudgy texture in your Peppermint Bark Brownies.
Step 4: Incorporate Chocolate Chips
Once your batter is combined, carefully fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. This will add delightful pockets of gooey chocolate throughout. Ensure the chocolate chips are evenly distributed in the batter, which you will then spread evenly into the prepared baking pan, making sure to smooth the top for an even bake.
Step 5: Bake the Brownies
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25-28 minutes. Check the brownies by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few fudgy crumbs but not wet batter. Keep a close eye towards the end of baking to ensure they don’t dry out, delivering that perfect indulgent texture we all love in these Peppermint Bark Brownies.
Step 6: Cool and Prepare the Topping
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, in a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth, creating a creamy topping for your festive brownies.
Step 7: Apply the White Chocolate Topping
After the brownies have cooled slightly, pour the melted white chocolate mixture over the top. Use a spatula to gently smooth it out so that it evenly covers the brownies. For the finishing touch, sprinkle the crushed peppermint on top, which will not only add flavor but also deliver a beautiful holiday appearance to your Peppermint Bark Brownies.
Step 8: Set and Serve
Refrigerate the brownies for at least 30 minutes to allow the topping to set properly; overnight chilling is ideal for a firmer result. Once set, use the overhang from the foil or parchment to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut them into squares and serve, delighting your friends and family with these irresistibly indulgent Peppermint Bark Brownies!
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Bark Brownies are ideal for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to indulge in holiday sweetness without last-minute stress! You can prepare the brownie base up to 24 hours in advance; simply make, cool, and store it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. The white chocolate topping can also be melted and prepared beforehand; just keep it in an airtight container. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat the topping if needed and pour it over the chilled brownies, then sprinkle with crushed peppermint. This not only saves time but ensures your brownies are just as delicious as if they were freshly made, perfect for those cozy gatherings!
What to Serve with Peppermint Bark Brownies?
Indulging in Peppermint Bark Brownies opens up a world of delightful pairings that enhance your dessert experience and create a truly festive atmosphere.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing provides a creamy contrast to the rich chocolate flavors, creating a harmonious balance of textures.
-
Hot Cocoa: Warm, comforting, and infused with marshmallows, this drink complements the taste of peppermint and provides a cozy festive vibe.
-
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream adds a lightness that beautifully offsets the dense brownie texture, making each bite feel indulgent.
-
Minty Holiday Punch: A refreshing, chilled beverage featuring mint and citrus notes enhances the peppermint flavor in the brownies while invigorating your palate.
-
Chocolate Ganache: For a chocolate lover’s dream, drizzling a rich chocolate ganache over each brownie adds even more decadence to this already lavish dessert.
-
Crushed Candy Canes as Garnish: Extra crushed candy canes sprinkled atop your brownies amplify the peppermint flavor and add a visually festive touch.
-
Espresso or Coffee: An invigorating cup of coffee or a bold espresso shot balances the sweetness of the brownies, creating a delightful start to the day or evening.
-
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: Their natural sweetness and slight tartness create a fruity bite that beautifully pairs with the chocolate-tinged peppermint treats.
-
Cheesecake Bites: End on a creamy note with bite-sized cheesecake, its richness offering a delightful contrast while keeping the holiday spirit alive in every mouthful.
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Bark Brownies
Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Ensure they’re completely cooled to preserve their fudgy texture.
Fridge: To extend freshness, keep the brownies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Use parchment paper to separate layers if stacking, preventing sticking.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze brownies in a single layer for up to 3 months. Place parchment paper between layers in a freezer-safe container to maintain quality.
Reheating: Thaw frozen Peppermint Bark Brownies overnight in the fridge. Enjoy them at room temperature, or warm them slightly in the microwave for a cozy treat!
Peppermint Bark Brownies Variations
Feel free to customize your Peppermint Bark Brownies with these delightful twists that will enhance their flavors and textures.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute regular butter and white chocolate with coconut oil and dairy-free white chocolate chips for a vegan-friendly treat.
- Dark Chocolate: For a richer flavor, swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips, giving your brownies a deeper, more intense taste.
- Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped walnuts or almonds into the batter for a satisfying crunch that complements the soft, fudgy texture beautifully.
- Minty Fresh: Add crushed candy canes instead of peppermint bits on top, creating a decorative and flavorful finish that adds extra crunch.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour, so everyone can enjoy this festive delight, regardless of dietary needs.
- Spicy Chocolate: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the batter for an unexpected warm kick, elevating the overall flavor profile.
- S’mores Style: Layer crushed graham crackers and mini marshmallows on top before adding the white chocolate; once baked, broil briefly for a toasted finish.
- Chocolate Drizzle: After chilling, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top for an elegant presentation and an indulgent layer to savor.
Don’t miss out on more delicious variations for your holiday treats—check out our recipe for Better Than Brownies for even more inspiration!
Expert Tips for Peppermint Bark Brownies
-
Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to maintain that signature fudgy texture beloved in Peppermint Bark Brownies.
-
Check for Doneness: Bake just until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few fudgy crumbs. This prevents dry brownies, ensuring they stay rich and decadent.
-
Cool Properly: Allow brownies to cool before topping with white chocolate. This helps the layers meld beautifully without sliding off.
-
Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips for the best flavor in your Peppermint Bark Brownies.
-
Perfectly Crushed Peppermint: Instead of chopping the candy canes, place them in a ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin for even pieces that won't clump.
Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe FAQs
What type of eggs should I use?
Absolutely use large eggs for the perfect balance of moisture and structure! If you're looking for a dairy-free option, I recommend using flax eggs instead—just mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens.
How should I store the brownies to maintain freshness?
To keep your Peppermint Bark Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also layer them with parchment paper if you're stacking to prevent sticking. This method keeps their fudgy texture intact!
Can I freeze these brownies? If so, how?
Yes! For freezing, place your brownies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, and they're good to go!
What should I do if my brownies turn out too dry?
Very important to stick to the baking time! Check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time. If your brownies do end up dry, save them by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to bring that moisture back!
Are these brownies safe for people with allergies?
It's vital to consider allergies! This recipe contains eggs and may have gluten from all-purpose flour, so if any guests have allergies, think about using gluten-free flour and an egg substitute like a flax egg. Also, choose dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut oil to make them completely dairy-free.
How can I enhance the mint flavor in the brownies?
To boost the mint flavor in your Peppermint Bark Brownies, add a little more peppermint extract cautiously. Start with an additional ¼ teaspoon and taste the batter. Remember, sometimes less is more, as peppermint can be quite potent!
Irresistibly Indulgent Peppermint Bark Brownies to Savor
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- 8x8-inch baking pan
- Whisk
- spatula
- microwave-safe bowl
Ingredients
For the Brownies
- 2 large Eggs Use flax eggs for a vegan option
- ½ cup Butter Can replace with coconut oil for dairy-free
- 1 cup Brown Sugar
- ½ cup White Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Use pure vanilla for best taste
- ½ teaspoon Peppermint Extract Optional
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- ½ cup Cocoa Powder Use good quality cocoa for best results
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips Use dairy-free chips to make it vegan
For the Topping
- 1 cup White Chocolate Chips Use dairy-free for a vegan option
- 1 tablespoon Coconut Oil
For Garnishing
- ½ cup Crushed Peppermint Adds a crunchy, festive finish
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper, lightly coated with cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, then add melted butter, brown sugar, white sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then fold into wet ingredients gently.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-28 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness.
- Cool brownies in the pan for about 10 minutes, then prepare the topping by melting white chocolate chips and coconut oil in the microwave.
- Pour the melted white chocolate over the cooled brownies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set, then lift out using the overhang and cut into squares.
