Around our house, certain treats signal the start of the holiday season, and these Peppermint Bark Brownies definitely top the list. I remember the first time I tried to make these, thinking it would be a simple twist on classic brownies. Boy, was I wrong! The peppermint extract was overpowering, the chocolate didn’t melt evenly, and the peppermint bark topping was a complete mess. But through a lot of trial and error and plenty of family feedback, I finally nailed it. Now, my family looks forward to these Peppermint Bark Brownies every year.
This recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s about creating moments and memories in the kitchen, together. Seeing my kids’ eyes light up when they taste that perfect blend of rich chocolate and cool peppermint is pure joy. And that’s what I want to share with you fellow flavor seekers. Let’s get into the kitchen and create some magic with these Peppermint Bark Brownies that will bring your family closer through the most genuine and satisfying flavors.
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted: I prefer using European-style butter for its higher fat content, which gives the brownies an extra rich, fudgy texture.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: For that perfect sweetness and to help create a chewy crust on top.
- 4 large eggs: Use room temperature eggs for better emulsification and a smoother batter.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A good quality vanilla extract enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Spoon and level the flour to avoid adding too much, which can make the brownies tough.
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: I like using Dutch-processed cocoa for a deeper chocolate flavor and darker color.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Just a touch to give the brownies a little lift.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract: Be careful not to add too much, as it can be overpowering! Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to your taste.
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips: Use good quality chocolate chips for the best flavor and melting.
- 6 ounces white chocolate chips: Adds a nice contrast to the semi-sweet chocolate.
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies: Adds a festive touch and a burst of peppermint flavor. You can find the freshest ingredients for these festive peppermint brownies at your local grocery store.
Trust me, this Peppermint Bark Brownies ingredient list focuses on quality over quantity for authentic flavors!
Let’s Create This Together!
- Preheat and Prep: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This prevents the brownies from sticking and makes them easy to remove. In my kitchen, this flavorful Peppermint Bark Brownies typically takes about 30-35 minutes to bake.
- Melt the Butter: In a large bowl, melt the butter completely. You can do this in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or in a saucepan over low heat.
- Add Sugar and Eggs: Stir in the sugar until well combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure the sugar is fully incorporated to achieve that desirable chewy texture in your Peppermint Bark Brownies.
- Incorporate Vanilla and Peppermint: Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Remember, a little peppermint extract goes a long way! Perfect time to appreciate the aromatic transformation!
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough brownies. Here’s where I used to miss a key step with my Peppermint Bark Brownies – learn from my experience!
- Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. This adds extra richness and chocolatey goodness to your brownies.
- Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Your Peppermint Bark Brownies should fill the kitchen with amazing aromas by now.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Don’t be surprised if your Peppermint Bark Brownies develops a slightly crackled top; that’s a sign of perfectly baked brownies!
- Melt White Chocolate: While the brownies are baking, melt the white chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between) until smooth.
- Spread White Chocolate: Once the brownies are out of the oven, let them cool slightly (about 10 minutes). Then, spread the melted white chocolate evenly over the top.
- Add Peppermint Candies: Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the melted white chocolate. Press them in gently to ensure they adhere. While your Peppermint Bark Brownies is developing these flavors, take a moment to appreciate creating something special for your family!
- Cool and Cut: Let the brownies cool completely before cutting into squares. This allows the white chocolate and peppermint topping to set properly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Cut into squares and serve. These chocolate peppermint brownies are best enjoyed with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee.
How We Love to Enjoy This!
My family absolutely loves these Peppermint Bark Brownies, and we’ve found a few ways that make them even more special. During the holiday season, we often serve these with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup. The combination of warm brownie, cold ice cream, and extra chocolate is simply divine. The family gathers quickly when this aromatic Peppermint Bark Brownies appears with some ice cream.
Another favorite is to pair these brownies with a warm mug of peppermint hot chocolate. The peppermint flavor is amplified, creating a cozy and festive treat. These festive peppermint brownies are perfect for those evenings when we want something truly satisfying!
For a fun presentation, I like to cut the brownies into small squares and arrange them on a platter with fresh berries and whipped cream. It adds a touch of elegance and makes them perfect for holiday gatherings. This flavorful Peppermint Bark Brownies reminds me of another family favorite, the Halloween Swirl Oreo Cream Cheese Brownies.
If you have any leftover brownies (which is rare in my house!), you can crumble them and use them as a topping for ice cream or yogurt. They also make a delicious addition to milkshakes. This Peppermint Bark Brownies proves that authentic flavor comes from thoughtful ingredient choices.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Does this Peppermint Bark Brownies recipe really satisfy hearty appetites?
Absolutely! These brownies are rich, fudgy, and packed with chocolate and peppermint flavor. They are sure to satisfy even the biggest sweet tooth.
What if someone in my family prefers milder flavors in their Peppermint Bark Brownies?
You can easily adjust the amount of peppermint extract to suit your family’s taste. Start with a smaller amount (¼ teaspoon) and add more to taste.
How can I prepare this Peppermint Bark Brownies ahead for busy weeks?
You can bake the brownies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Add the white chocolate and peppermint topping just before serving to keep it fresh.
Can I use a different type of chocolate in this Peppermint Bark Brownies recipe?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate or dark chocolate for the semi-sweet chocolate, depending on your preference.
Is it possible to make these Peppermint Bark Brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. Be sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum for best results.
What’s the best way to store these Peppermint Bark Brownies?
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Why did my peppermint bark topping melt when I stored my holiday brownies?
The melted white chocolate topping of your holiday brownies may melt because of temperature fluctuations or high humidity. Ensure you’re storing them in a cool, dry place, ideally in an airtight container to minimize moisture exposure.
Final Kitchen Wisdom:
These Peppermint Bark Brownies have become a holiday staple in our home, and I hope they will become one in yours too. They are the perfect way to spread some holiday cheer and create lasting memories with your loved ones. For more genuine cooking ideas for family meals, explore the Halloween Oreo Bark, another family favorite.
My Peppermint Bark Brownies Flavor Secrets:
- Quality Chocolate: Using high-quality chocolate chips makes a huge difference in the overall flavor of the brownies.
- Peppermint Balance: Finding the right balance of peppermint extract is key to avoiding an overpowering flavor.
- Cooling Time: Allowing the brownies to cool completely before cutting them ensures that the topping sets properly and the brownies hold their shape.
Here are a few family-tested variations:
- Dark Chocolate Peppermint Brownies: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
- Peppermint Mocha Brownies: Add a tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the batter for a mocha twist.
- Double Peppermint Brownies: Mix crushed peppermint candies into the brownie batter as well as sprinkling them on top.
My son, Liam, loves the double peppermint version, while my daughter, Mia, prefers the classic recipe with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. No matter how you choose to make them, I hope these Peppermint Bark Brownies bring as much joy to your family as they do to mine. I encourage you to make it your signature version! I have faith that you’re on the journey to creating authentic, flavorful meals that bring your family together. If your family loves these authentic flavors, they’ll appreciate these Loaded Cream Cheese Halloween Brownies.
Remember, the best cooking comes from the heart, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make these Peppermint Bark Brownies your own. Happy baking!
If you’re looking for other great recipes, you might enjoy this article about Easy Peppermint Bark Brownies are made with a boxed brownie mix … Or perhaps this one: Peppermint Bark Brownies ~ Barley & Sage. And don’t miss Bobby’s makin’ a Peppermint Brownies recipe that is festive …
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Peppermint Bark Brownies
Fudgy brownies swirled with peppermint and topped with crushed peppermint bark, these Peppermint Bark Brownies are the perfect festive treat for the holidays! Rich, decadent, and easy to make.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies
- 8 ounces peppermint bark, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in ½ cup of crushed peppermint candies.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle chopped peppermint bark over the top of the brownie batter.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Sprinkle with additional crushed peppermint candies before serving, if desired.
Notes
For an extra festive touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the brownies after they have cooled and sprinkle with crushed peppermint.