Description

These Easy Peppermint Brownies combine rich chocolatey goodness with a refreshing hint of peppermint, perfect for festive occasions or a delightful treat any time of the year. They feature a moist, fudgy texture topped with crushed peppermint candies and chocolate chips for a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Batter

1 stick unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract or oil
2 large eggs
1/2 cup all purpose flour
1/2 cup chocolate chips (divided)
3 tablespoons peppermint crunch or crushed candy canes (divided)

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9×9 inch baking dish with foil or parchment paper and set it aside for easy removal of the brownies after baking.
Melt Butter and Combine Cocoa Mixture: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium low heat. Once melted, add the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and sea salt. Stir well to combine and continue cooking, stirring occasionally until the mixture is very warm to the touch but not boiling. Remove from heat and stir in the peppermint extract. Allow the mixture to cool for 5-10 minutes to avoid cooking the eggs in the next step.
Add Eggs and Flour: Add eggs to the cooled mixture one at a time, beating vigorously after each addition to ensure a smooth batter. Then, gently stir in the all-purpose flour just until incorporated to maintain the fudgy texture. Fold in the majority of the chocolate chips and peppermint crunch pieces, reserving some to sprinkle on top of the batter before baking.
Pour Batter and Add Toppings: Pour the prepared brownie batter evenly into the lined baking dish. Spread it smoothly using a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips and peppermint crunch over the top for an attractive finish and added flavor.
Bake the Brownies: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The brownies are done when the center is puffed and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Cool Completely: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. This will help them set properly and make cutting easier.

Notes

Make sure the cocoa mixture cools down enough before adding eggs to prevent scrambling.
Using peppermint extract or peppermint oil will affect the intensity of the mint flavor; adjust according to your preference.
The brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for longer freshness.
For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: peppermint brownies, chocolate peppermint brownies, holiday brownies, fudgy brownies, peppermint candy dessert