There’s something truly magical about the combination of chocolate and peppermint, isn’t there? Every holiday season, I find myself craving that delightful blend and nothing satisfies those sweet tooth urges quite like Peppermint Bark Brownies. The memory of biting into a fudgy brownie topped with creamy white chocolate and a delightful crunch of peppermint takes me back to cozy evenings spent baking with family, surrounded by the warm glow of twinkling lights. It just fills my heart with joy – and my belly too!
These Peppermint Bark Brownies are not just a treat; they’re an experience. The rich, chocolatey goodness comes together beautifully with the refreshing feel of peppermint, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or just a festive night in. Seriously, I created these just last week, and let me tell you, they vanished faster than I could say “Who wants dessert?” So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this wonderfully indulgent recipe!
What’s in Peppermint Bark Brownies?
Unsalted Butter: This is the base for our brownies! It adds richness and helps create that fudgy texture we all love. Trust me, don’t reach for salted; unsalted is the way to go here.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetener not only adds sweetness but also helps the brownies achieve that perfect chewy texture.
Large Eggs: Eggs are the magical binders in this recipe. They bring everything together and provide that luscious, moist crumb.
Vanilla Extract: A must-have in any brownie recipe! The vanilla adds a beautiful depth of flavor that complements the chocolate.
All-Purpose Flour: This creates structure in our brownies. Be careful not to overmix, or you could end up with tough brownies.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: For that deep, chocolate flavor! Make sure it’s high quality if you want the best results.
Salt: Just a pinch of salt enhances all the flavors in your brownies. It’s amazing how a small amount can make such a difference!
Baking Powder: This is our leavening agent. It helps to give the brownies a bit of lift while keeping them delightfully fudgy.
White Chocolate: The star of our peppermint bark topping! It adds that creaminess that every brownie needs, especially with the refreshing peppermint.
Heavy Cream: This helps to melt the white chocolate into a smooth, luscious ganache. It’s all about the decadence, right?
Peppermint Extract: Just a little splash of this goes a long way! It really brings that festive flavor to life!
Crushed Peppermint Candies: These add the crunchy, minty topping that not only looks pretty but adds that delicious crunch we all love.
Mini Candy Canes: Optional but oh-so-fun! They make for a perfect garnish that will impress your guests.
Is Peppermint Bark Brownies Good for You?
Well, let’s be real – these brownies are a treat, and like all good things, they should be enjoyed in moderation! The great news is that some of the ingredients have health benefits:
Dark Chocolate (Cocoa Powder): Dark chocolate, when used in moderation, is full of antioxidants and can actually be good for heart health. Just make sure to keep your eyes on the cocoa and not the sugar!
Peppermint: Peppermint is known for its digestive benefits; it can help soothe your stomach and promote a cheerful mood. So if there’s anyone at the holiday party feeling a bit too full of Christmas cheer, these brownies might just save the day!
However, be mindful of the sugar content. It’s a dessert, after all! So aim to share these delightful treats with friends and spread the joy (and calories) around.
Ingredients List
– 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 8 oz white chocolate, chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
– 4-5 mini candy canes, chopped for garnish (optional)
This recipe yields about 24 brownie squares, depending on how big or small you like to cut them!
How to Make Peppermint Bark Brownies?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar until it’s well combined and glossy.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Don’t rush this part; each egg deserves some love! Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. You want to keep it tender, so no need to overmix!
5. Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Smell that heavenly aroma!
6. While the brownies are baking, prepare the peppermint bark topping. In a saucepan over low heat, combine the chopped white chocolate and heavy cream. Stir gently until the chocolate is melted and perfectly smooth. Add the peppermint extract and mix well.
7. Once the brownies are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, pour the warm white chocolate mixture over the brownies, spreading it evenly.
8. Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the top of the white chocolate layer, making it look as festive as it tastes! If you like, garnish with chopped mini candy canes for extra flair.
9. Allow the brownies to cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate to set the topping faster, about 1 hour. Patience is key here; trust me, it’s worth the wait!
10. Once set, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment overhang, and cut them into squares to serve.
Delightful Tips for Your Peppermint Bark Brownies
– For even more chocolate goodness, feel free to stir in some chocolate chips to the brownie batter before baking. Every bite will be a chocolate lover’s dream!
– These brownies make a festive holiday treat! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
– If you have leftover toppings (because we all know there’s never too much chocolate), work them into ice cream for a peppermint brownie sundae, and watch your friends and family swoon!
I can’t wait for you to try these Peppermint Bark Brownies at home! They’ll fill your kitchen with delightful aromas and your heart with happiness. Let me know how yours turn out; I love hearing about your kitchen adventures! Happy baking!
