Introduction
Get ready to indulge in one of the most delightful treats of the season! These Peppermint Brownies combine the rich, fudgy chocolate flavor of classic brownies with a refreshing twist of peppermint. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat to enjoy at home, these brownies are sure to be a hit. With a gooey texture and just the right amount of minty crunch, they’ll have your taste buds dancing with joy! Whether you’re sharing them with friends or keeping them all to yourself, every bite is a moment of pure bliss.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 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
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candies
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 24 brownies
Directions and Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure your brownies release perfectly after baking.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, remove it from the heat and stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder to combine all the dry ingredients.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want those brownies to stay fudgy!
- Fold in the chocolate chips and half of the crushed peppermint candies, giving your batter a delightful minty burst.
- Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to ensure even baking.
- Pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The top should look firm but slightly crackled.
- Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a bit. When they’re cool enough to handle, top them with the remaining crushed peppermint candies for that extra festive flair.
- Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Notes or Tips
To enhance the peppermint flavor, consider using peppermint extract instead of vanilla, or adding a sprinkle of crushed candies atop the brownies just before serving. These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long!
Cooking Techniques
Melting the butter over low heat is key to achieving the perfect brownie texture. Be sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined to avoid a cake-like texture. Folding in chocolate chips adds pockets of rich chocolate flavor that melt in your mouth, while the crushed peppermint adds a delightful crunch.
FAQ
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for equally delicious results.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them for up to three months; just wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a lovely crunch and flavor contrast. Just mix them in when you add the chocolate chips.
Conclusion
These Peppermint Brownies are a delightful way to celebrate the season! With their rich chocolate base and refreshing peppermint topping, they provide a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re baking for a festive occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, these brownies will bring joy to everyone who tries them. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready for a delicious baking adventure!