Peppermint Brownies Chocolate Frosted

These peppermint brownies with a thick layer of chocolate frosting and crunchy peppermint candy are the ultimate winter treat for anyone who loves that classic mint and chocolate combination. Perfect for holiday parties or a cozy evening by the fire, they bring just the right amount of indulgence and festivity into every bite.

I baked these brownies for our annual holiday swap and not a crumb was left. The cool peppermint frosting always reminds my family of decorating candy canes together in December.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: This keeps the brownies moist and adds rich flavor Use good quality European style butter if possible for the best texture
• Semi sweet chocolate chips: These melt smoothly into the batter and give an extra chocolatey base Look for chocolate chips with at least fifty percent cocoa solids
• Granulated sugar: This sweetens and creates a chewy texture Ensure the sugar is fresh for smooth blending
• Large eggs: Each egg helps bind the batter and makes it fudgy Always use room temperature eggs for even mixing
• Pure vanilla extract: Adds warmth and balance to the peppermint flavor Choose genuine extract for best results
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers intense chocolate flavor Dutch process will add an even deeper color
• All purpose flour: Provides structure Measure the flour by spooning and leveling so brownies stay tender
• Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and sharpens the chocolate flavor Use fine sea salt if you do not have kosher
• Baking powder: Lifts the brownies slightly for a soft crumb Make sure your baking powder is fresh for rise
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and brings body to the peppermint frosting Sift it to avoid lumps
• Peppermint extract: Infuses cool minty flavor into the frosting Use pure extract from a quality brand
• Milk: Loosens the frosting and makes it easy to spread Whole or your favorite non-dairy milk both work
• Ghirardelli dark chocolate melting wafers: These melt smoothly for topping and add shine Use the best dark chocolate you can find
• Crushed peppermint candy: Gives crunch and festive color Crush with a rolling pin for varied texture

Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Line a nine inch square baking dish with parchment paper This not only prevents sticking but makes removing the brownies much easier once set

Melt and Blend Chocolate Base:

In a medium saucepan seat over medium heat melt butter until liquid Remove from heat and immediately stir in chocolate chips and sugar Stir thoroughly until the mix looks glossy and the chips are fully melted

Add Eggs and Vanilla:

Whisk eggs in one at a time Each egg should be blended just until the yolk disappears Stir in the vanilla extract at this stage for a well rounded base

Combine Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl gently mix cocoa powder flour salt and baking powder Pour this blend into the chocolate base mixture Fold together slowly stopping as soon as all dry spots disappear A few light streaks are ok Overmixing can lead to tough brownies

Bake the Brownies:

Pour batter into the prepared dish Smoothing it to the corners helps ensure even baking Bake at three hundred and fifty degrees Fahrenheit for thirty five to forty minutes The top should appear set and a toothpick can come out with a few moist crumbs

Cool Completely:

Let the brownies cool untouched in their pan This prevents the frosting from melting and helps each square slice cleanly

Make the Peppermint Frosting:

In a large bowl beat softened butter with powdered sugar peppermint extract and milk Beat on medium speed for three to four minutes scraping the bowl down until the frosting is fluffy and pale

Frost the Brownies:

Spread frosting evenly over the cooled brownie slab Use an offset spatula for clean edges

Drizzle with Dark Chocolate:

Melt dark chocolate wafers in a microwave safe bowl in thirty second bursts stirring between each until smooth Drizzle over the frosting in zigzag or lines for a pretty finish

Add Peppermint Candy Topping:

Scatter crushed peppermint candy over the wet chocolate It should stick while the chocolate is still setting for best effect

Set and Slice:

Allow the brownies to sit for one hour so the chocolate topping can firm up before slicing into neat squares with a sharp knife

I am completely obsessed with how the peppermint extract makes the whole house smell like a candy shop every time I make these. Crushing the peppermint candies can turn into a holiday stress relief activity in our kitchen.

Storage Tips

Place sliced brownies in an airtight container at room temperature where they stay soft and chewy for up to five days. If you prefer a chilled dessert the frosted brownies can be kept covered in the fridge for a firmer bite and the flavors remain vibrant. For longer storage layer the pieces with wax paper before freezing to protect the beautiful topping.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need a dairy free version swap the butter for a plant based baking stick and use non dairy milk in the frosting. For gluten free brownies use a cup for cup gluten free flour blend and double check your baking powder is certified GF. In a pinch regular chocolate chips work for the drizzle but melting wafers give the cleanest finish.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies shine on their own but are wonderful paired with a mug of hot cocoa or peppermint tea. Stack them on a pretty cake stand for a party or wrap individually for edible gifts that travel well. For extra flair top each piece with a dollop of whipped cream right before serving.

Cultural and Seasonal Context

Peppermint and chocolate have been a classic pair since the Victorian era often found in European holiday desserts. Crushed peppermint on brownies has become a modern bakery staple in wintertime North America and now is a favorite homemade treat as well. Feel free to swap the candy for pastel mints or sprinkles in the spring.

Seasonal Adaptations

Use crushed pastel mints for springtime events Swap dark chocolate drizzle for white chocolate during warmer months for a lighter flavor Add a touch of espresso powder to the batter in autumn for richness

Success Stories

Many readers tell me these brownies become the highlight of their holiday dessert table and a go to edible gift. One friend layered them in glass jars with crushed candy canes for a stunning homemade Christmas present.

Freezer Meal Conversion

Let brownies and frosting set completely then slice and wrap each serving tightly in plastic before storing in a ziptop freezer bag. Defrost in the refrigerator and top with fresh crushed candy after thawing to maintain crunch.

With these brownies, you get a festive treat that looks impressive but is simple to prepare. Enjoy every minty, chocolatey bite with your favorite people this season.

FAQs about Recipes

→ How do I ensure fudgy brownies?

Mix batter until just combined and avoid overbaking for moist, dense brownies.

→ Can I substitute peppermint extract?

Try using a few drops of mint extract but note it’s stronger in flavor than peppermint.

→ What’s the best way to melt chocolate?

Microwave in short bursts, stirring often, or use a double boiler for smooth results.

→ Should frosting be applied to cooled brownies?

Yes, ensure brownies are fully cooled so the frosting spreads smoothly without melting.

→ How to cut brownies neatly?

Use a sharp knife wiped clean between slices and allow brownies to fully set before cutting.