Festive Peppermint Brownies Everyone Will Love

Delicious festive peppermint brownies topped with chocolate and crushed peppermint

By :

Eva

November 11, 2025

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

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Why make this recipe

Festive Peppermint Brownies are not just delicious; they are a perfect treat for the holiday season. The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint makes these brownies irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, attending a gathering, or just want to treat your family, these brownies will undoubtedly impress. The vibrant colors and festive crunch of crushed peppermint candy on top add an extra touch of cheer, making them a visual delight as well.

By opting for this recipe, you’ll be creating a homemade dessert that brings warmth to any occasion. Plus, it’s an excellent way to get everyone involved in the kitchen, from stirring the batter to sprinkling the peppermint. So, embrace the season and fill your home with the delightful aroma of freshly baked brownies that everyone will rave about!

How to make Festive Peppermint Brownies

Making Festive Peppermint Brownies is a simple process that requires only a few steps. With the right ingredients and a dash of holiday spirit, you can create a delicious dessert that captures the essence of the season. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you prepare these tasty treats.

Ingredients:

Brownie Base:
- ½ cup salted butter (melted)
- ¾ + 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
- ¾ tsp Peppermint Extract
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- ¾ tsp espresso powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ cup chocolate chips or chunks
- ¼ cup salted butter (melted) – for frosting
- ½ cup cocoa powder (for frosting)
- 2 ⅓ cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 2-3 tablespoons whole milk
Decoration:
- Crushed peppermint candy

Directions:

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. You can also lightly butter the sides so the brownies lift out cleanly and the edges stay perfect.
Mix Wet Ingredients: Melt the salted butter until it’s smooth. Stir in the light brown sugar until it becomes glossy and soft. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing gently. Then, add the peppermint extract. Your kitchen will instantly smell like the holidays!
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder (if using), cornstarch, and baking powder. Carefully fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, just until no flour streaks remain.
Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in the dark chocolate chips or chunks, reserving a few to scatter on top before baking. These little melty pockets make every bite extra special.
Bake the Brownies: Spoon the batter into the waiting pan, smoothing the top with your spatula for a polished look. Bake for about 30 minutes. Test by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached. Start checking around 28 minutes for perfectly fudgy brownies.
Cool the Brownies: Wait for the brownies to cool entirely in the pan before spreading on the frosting.
Prepare the Frosting: For the frosting, mix the melted butter, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk little by little.
Frost and Decorate: Spread the frosting gently over the cooled brownies. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candy over the frosting, adding crunch and a burst of holiday color.
Serve and Enjoy: Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy the festive flavors!

Nutritional benefits

Not only are these Festive Peppermint Brownies a delight for the senses, but they also bring some nutritional benefits:

Dark Chocolate: Contains antioxidants and may improve heart health.
Cocoa Powder: Can provide a good source of fiber and may help with cardiovascular health.
Peppermint: Known for aiding digestion and providing a refreshing flavor.
Butter in moderation: Provides necessary fats for energy.

While these brownies do include sugar and calories, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

What to Serve With Festive Peppermint Brownies

When serving your Festive Peppermint Brownies, consider pairing them with complementary items to enhance the experience:

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the rich brownies.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream can add a creamy texture.
Coffee or Hot Cocoa: A warm beverage pairs well, especially during the colder months.
Fruit: Fresh berries or pomegranate can add a refreshing balance to the sweetness.

These combinations will surely create a memorable dessert experience for your guests and family.

Why You’ll Love This

Easy to Make: The simple instructions make it easy for anyone, even those new to baking.
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves brownies, and adding peppermint makes them special for the holidays.
Customizable: You can adjust the levels of peppermint and chocolate to suit your taste.
Perfect for Gift-Giving: These brownies make a great gift when packaged in festive boxes or tins.

How to store Festive Peppermint Brownies

To keep your Festive Peppermint Brownies fresh, store them properly:

Room Temperature: Keep the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: If you want them to last longer, store them in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure to cover them well to prevent the brownies from drying out.
Freezing: You can freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.

Tips and mistakes to avoid

Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies.
Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary. Start checking your brownies a couple of minutes before the suggested baking time.
Let Them Cool: Allow the brownies to cool completely before adding frosting to prevent it from melting.
Use Quality Chocolate: The quality of your chocolate can greatly affect the taste, so opt for good-quality chocolate chips or chunks.

Variation

Mint Chocolate Swirl: For a fun twist, try adding a swirl of mint chocolate ganache on top of the frosting before adding crushed peppermint candy.
Nutty Brownies: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture and flavor.
Chocolate Peppermint Bark: Top the brownies with a layer of melted chocolate and decorate with more crushed peppermint for a bark effect.

FAQs

1. Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?

Yes, you can use unsalted butter. Just add a pinch of salt to maintain the flavor balance.

2. Can I omit the espresso powder?

Yes, the espresso powder is optional. It enhances the chocolate flavor, but you can leave it out without compromising the recipe.

3. How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Check your brownies with a toothpick inserted in the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready. If it’s wet with batter, bake for a couple more minutes.

These Festive Peppermint Brownies are sure to become a favorite holiday treat in your home. With their rich, chocolatey goodness and hint of peppermint, they are perfect for celebrations or simple family gatherings. Happy baking!