Peppermint brownies are the perfect dessert fusion for the festive season. Combining the rich moistness of brownies with a cool minty flavor, these brownies will be a hit at any gathering. The added cream cheese frosting and chocolate ganache drizzle make for a mouthwatering finish that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Photos of Peppermint Brownies Recipe
The ingredient list might seem pretty standard for any baking recipe but the key player here is the peppermint extract. It's what gives the brownies their unique flavor, and you might not have it readily available in your home. You can find this in the baking section of your local supermarket. Another ingredient to watch out for is dark chocolate cocoa powder, this deepens the chocolate flavor of the brownies.
Peppermint Brownie Essential Ingredients
Bitter sweet chocolate: Not too sweet, not too bitter, this chocolate lends a rich flavor to the brownies.
Butter: Adds to the moistness and richness of the brownies.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies.
Eggs: Provide structure and stability to the brownies.
Peppermint extract: Gives the brownies their distinct minty flavor.
Vanilla extract: Enhances other flavors.
All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the brownies.
Dark chocolate cocoa powder: Enhances the chocolate flavor.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances other flavors.
Cream cheese: Provides creaminess to the frosting.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting.
Heavy whipping cream: Adds creaminess to the ganache.
Bittersweet chocolate chips: Provides richness and flavor to the ganache.
Candy cane: Adds a festive touch and extra minty flavor.
One reader, Aldus Ebert says:
These peppermint brownies are a game-changer! The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint is simply divine. The frosting and ganache take it to the next level. It's the perfect treat for the holiday season or any time you want a decadent, minty delight. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Perfect Peppermint Brownies
How to melt chocolate and butter: Place the chocolate and butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
How to make ganache: Heat the cream in the microwave until it starts to boil, then pour it over the chocolate chips. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth.
How to frost the brownies: Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth, then mix in the powdered sugar. Spread the frosting over the cooled brownies evenly.
How to drizzle ganache over the frosting: Place the ganache in a piping bag and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Then, drizzle it over the frosting in a zigzag pattern.
How to cut the brownies: Pull out the parchment paper to remove the brownies from the pan, then cut them into 16 squares using a sharp knife.
How To Make Peppermint Brownies
Serve up some refreshing peppermint brownies this Christmas! These dark chocolate brownies are topped with a cream cheese frosting for a sweeter treat.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Brownies:
- 5ozbitter sweet chocolate
- ½cupbutter
- 1cupgranulated sugar
- 2eggs
- ¾tsppeppermint extract
- ½tspvanilla extract
- ½cupall-purpose flour
- 2tbspdark chocolate cocoa powder
- ¼tspsalt
For Frosting:
- 4ozcream cheese,softened
- ¼cupbutter,½ stick, softened
- 1¾cupspowdered sugar
For Ganache:
- 3tbspheavy whipping cream
- 1½ozbittersweet chocolate chips
- 1candy cane,crushed
Instructions
Brownies:
-
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F, then line an 8 by 8-inch pan with parchment paper or foil and grease.
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Place the chocolate and butter together in a bowl, then microwave in 30-second increments until melted and smooth.
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Mix in the sugar, then the eggs, vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Add the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then mix until combined.
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Spread onto the lined pan, then bake for 30 to 33 minutes until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Cool completely.
Frosting:
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Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
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Mix in the powdered sugar, then spread the frosting over the cooled brownies.
Ganache:
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Heat the cream in the microwave until it starts to boil.
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Pour the chocolate chips in the cream, then cover the bowl for 2 minutes. Whisk until smooth.
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Place the ganache in a bag, then let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes.
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Drizzle the ganache over the frosting, then immediately sprinkle with the crushed candy cane.
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Pull out the parchment paper to remove the brownies, then them cut into 16 squares. Serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 294.18kcal
- Fat: 16.75g
- Saturated Fat: 10.07g
- Trans Fat: 0.35g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.70g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.71g
- Carbohydrates: 36.84g
- Fiber: 1.04g
- Sugar: 32.03g
- Protein: 2.26g
- Cholesterol: 54.52mg
- Sodium: 74.48mg
- Calcium: 19.32mg
- Potassium: 74.86mg
- Iron: 0.76mg
- Vitamin A: 118.93µg
- Vitamin C: 0.02mg
Crucial Technique Tips for Peppermint Brownie Success
When making the ganache, ensure the cream is hot enough to melt the chocolate chips. If the chocolate doesn't completely melt, you can put the mixture back in the microwave for a few seconds. However, be careful not to overheat as it can cause the chocolate to seize and become grainy. Also, when spreading the frosting over the brownies, make sure the brownies are completely cooled. If the brownies are still warm, the frosting may melt and become too thin.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Peppermint Brownies Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the brownie batter and frosting the day before, then assemble and decorate the brownies on the day of serving for a time-saving solution.
Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly crush the candy cane for the garnish, saving time and effort compared to crushing it by hand.
Double batch: Consider making a double batch of brownies and freezing the extras for future use, allowing you to have a delicious treat ready to go at a moment's notice.
Organized workspace: Before starting, ensure your workspace is organized and all ingredients and tools are easily accessible, streamlining the cooking process.
Precise measurements: Accurately measure out all ingredients before starting to avoid any last-minute scrambling, saving time and reducing the risk of errors in the recipe.
Substitute Ingredients For Peppermint Brownies Recipe
bitter sweet chocolate - Substitute with semi-sweet chocolate: Semi-sweet chocolate has a slightly lower cocoa content and a bit more sugar, which can provide a similar level of sweetness and richness to the brownies.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative and adds a subtle coconut flavor to the brownies.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural alternative with a lower glycemic index, providing a slightly caramel-like flavor to the brownies.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and add moisture to the brownies, making them suitable for those with egg allergies or for vegan baking.
peppermint extract - Substitute with mint extract: Mint extract can provide a similar refreshing and minty flavor to the brownies.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can add a nutty and sweet flavor to the brownies, complementing the chocolate.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour: Gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version of the brownies, ensuring they are suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities.
dark chocolate cocoa powder - Substitute with regular cocoa powder: Regular cocoa powder can be used as an alternative to provide a rich chocolate flavor to the brownies.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used to enhance the overall flavor of the brownies with its subtle briny notes.
cream cheese - Substitute with vegan cream cheese: Vegan cream cheese can be used to create a dairy-free frosting option for those with dietary restrictions.
powdered sugar - Substitute with maple sugar: Maple sugar can be used as a natural alternative with a distinct maple flavor, adding a unique sweetness to the frosting.
heavy whipping cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative for the ganache, providing a rich and creamy texture.
bittersweet chocolate chips - Substitute with dairy-free chocolate chips: Dairy-free chocolate chips can be used for a vegan or dairy-free version of the ganache.
candy cane - Substitute with crushed peppermint candies: Crushed peppermint candies can be used as a festive and flavorful topping for the brownies.
Presenting Peppermint Brownies for Maximum Appeal
Elevate the brownie: Place the brownie square in the center of the plate, ensuring it is perfectly aligned and centered.
Ganache drizzle: Using a piping bag, carefully drizzle the ganache over the brownie in a fluid and artistic manner, ensuring it covers the entire surface evenly.
Cream cheese swirl: Create a delicate swirl of the cream cheese frosting on the plate, adjacent to the brownie, using a small offset spatula for precision.
Candy cane sprinkle: Sprinkle the crushed candy cane over the brownie and the surrounding plate, ensuring an even distribution and a visually appealing presentation.
Garnish with mint leaves: Place a few fresh mint leaves strategically around the brownie to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the presentation.
Plate with elegance: Use a minimalist approach to plating, ensuring that each element is meticulously placed for a sophisticated and refined presentation.
Incorporate negative space: Utilize the empty space on the plate to create a sense of balance and harmony, allowing the brownie to be the focal point of the presentation.
Artistic cocoa dusting: Lightly dust the plate with cocoa powder using a fine mesh sieve, adding a subtle and elegant touch to the overall presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Peppermint Brownies
- Microwave: Used to melt the chocolate and butter together in a quick and efficient manner.
- 8 by 8-inch pan: A baking pan used to bake the brownies in the oven.
- Parchment paper or foil: Used to line the baking pan to prevent the brownies from sticking.
- Bowl: Used to mix the chocolate and butter, as well as to prepare the ganache.
- Whisk: Used to mix the ganache until smooth and to incorporate air into the frosting.
- Spatula: Used to spread the brownie batter evenly in the pan and to spread the frosting over the cooled brownies.
- Knife: Used to cut the brownies into squares for serving.
- Microwave-safe bowl: Used to heat the cream for the ganache.
- Piping bag: Used to drizzle the ganache over the frosting in a decorative manner.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Used to measure the ingredients accurately.
- Electric mixer: Used to beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth for the frosting.
Storing and Freezing Peppermint Brownies for Later
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for the peppermint brownies recipe:
- Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them extra fresh, place a slice of bread in the container with the brownies. The bread will absorb any excess moisture and keep the brownies from getting too soft.
- For longer storage, freeze the brownies for up to 2 months. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. This will prevent the brownies from sticking together and make it easy to grab just one or two at a time.
- To thaw frozen brownies, remove them from the freezer and let them come to room temperature for about an hour. You can also microwave individual brownies for 10-15 seconds to warm them up slightly.
- If you want to freeze the entire pan of brownies, let them cool completely, then cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, remove the pan from the freezer and let it come to room temperature for several hours before cutting and serving.
- For best results, wait to add the cream cheese frosting and chocolate ganache until you're ready to serve the brownies. The frosting and ganache can get a bit messy when frozen and thawed. If you do choose to freeze the fully assembled brownies, let them thaw completely before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover Peppermint Brownies
The best way to reheat leftover peppermint brownies is to warm them up gently in the oven. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and place the brownies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes, or until they're warmed through and the frosting is soft and gooey again.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat the brownies in the microwave. Place a single brownie on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat them, as the chocolate can burn easily in the microwave.
For a crispy edge and a soft, gooey center, try reheating the brownies in a skillet. Melt a small amount of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the brownie in the skillet and heat it for about 30 seconds on each side, or until it's warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.
If you want to enjoy your leftover brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, try warming them up in the oven or microwave first, then serving them with a dollop of ice cream on top. The combination of warm, gooey chocolate and cool, creamy ice cream is simply irresistible.
For a fun twist, try crumbling up a leftover brownie and using it as a topping for your morning yogurt or oatmeal. The rich, minty flavor of the brownie will add a delicious twist to your breakfast routine.
Surprising Facts About Peppermint Brownies
The brownies in this recipe can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, making them a convenient treat for any occasion.
Is Making Peppermint Brownies at Home Cost-Effective?
This peppermint brownies recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of basic ingredients like chocolate, butter, and cream cheese makes it affordable. However, the inclusion of peppermint extract and candy canes may slightly increase the cost. The overall verdict for this recipe is 8/10, considering the delightful combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a reasonable treat for special occasions.
Are Peppermint Brownies Healthy or Unhealthy?
The peppermint brownies recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - chocolate, butter, sugar, and cream cheese - are all high in fat and calories. The recipe also calls for all-purpose flour and powdered sugar, which are refined carbohydrates that can cause blood sugar spikes. Additionally, the recipe lacks any significant sources of fiber, protein, or nutrients that would make it a balanced treat.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the brownie batter and frosting, or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey
- Swap out some of the butter for Greek yogurt or mashed avocado to reduce the fat content
- Add in some chopped nuts or seeds for a boost of healthy fats and protein
- Top the brownies with fresh berries instead of candy cane for a pop of color and natural sweetness
Editor's Take on the Delightful Peppermint Brownies Recipe
The peppermint brownies recipe is a delightful combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint. The brownies are moist and fudgy, with a perfect balance of sweetness and minty freshness. The creamy frosting adds a luscious layer of indulgence, while the ganache and candy cane topping provide a beautiful contrast of textures and flavors. This recipe is a wonderful choice for holiday gatherings or any time you want to treat yourself to a decadent and festive dessert.
Enhance Your Peppermint Brownies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Peppermint Brownies Recipe:
This recipe is a delightful fusion of rich bittersweet chocolate and refreshing peppermint extract. The combination of cream cheese frosting and decadent ganache adds layers of indulgent flavor. The meticulous instructions ensure a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Trust in the expertise of this culinary creation, as it promises to elevate your baking experience with its harmonious blend of flavors and exquisite presentation. Embrace the festive spirit and savor every bite of these irresistible peppermint brownies.
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