When the holiday season rolls around, the kitchen transforms into a haven of sweet treats and festive flavors. I can still picture the joy on my family’s faces as I popped these Peppermint Bark Brownies into the oven, and the tantalizing smell of chocolate wafted through our home. Combining rich, fudgy brownies with a glossy layer of white chocolate ganache and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, these delightful gems capture everything we love about holiday baking.
They are incredibly easy to whip up yet offer a show-stopping presentation that will have friends and family reaching for seconds. Perfect for holiday gatherings, as a thoughtful homemade gift, or simply to indulge in on a cozy winter evening, these brownies marry the classic flavors of peppermint bark with the decadent decadence of brownies. So, put on your apron and get ready to create a treat that will light up your holiday season!
Why are Peppermint Bark Brownies irresistible?
Rich, Decadent Flavor: The blend of dark chocolate and creamy white chocolate ganache delivers a taste experience that’s simply unforgettable.
Festive Crunch: Sprinkling crushed candy canes on top not only adds a pop of color but also a delightful crunch that enhances every bite.
Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, baking these brownies is a breeze, making it perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners.
Versatile Delight: Whether you’re serving them at holiday parties or gifting them, they are sure to impress and spread holiday cheer!
Quick to Prepare: Ready in just about an hour, you can whip up this festive treat with minimal effort, leaving more time for celebrations!
Peppermint Bark Brownies Ingredients
Perfect for your holiday baking!
For the Brownie Batter
- Dark Chocolate – A high-quality dark chocolate is essential for a deep, rich flavor.
- Dutch-Process Cocoa Powder – This gives your brownies an irresistible fudgy texture; regular cocoa can be used if unavailable.
- Instant Espresso Powder – Enhances the chocolate flavor; it’s optional, but it makes a difference.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the brownie batter perfectly.
- Butter – Adds richness and moisture; don’t skimp on the quality!
- Eggs – Provide structure and binding, crucial for that perfect brownie texture.
- All-Purpose Flour – Helps give structure to your delicious brownies.
For the White Chocolate Ganache
- White Chocolate – Use premium quality for a smooth, creamy ganache that balances the rich brownies.
- Heavy Cream – It plays a vital role in creating velvety ganache; keep it at room temperature before use.
- Peppermint Extract – Adds an invigorating holiday flavor; a little goes a long way!
For the Topping
- Crushed Candy Canes – They not only add a festive finish but also a delightful crunch that completes the peppermint bark experience.
Whether you’re indulging yourself or sharing these Peppermint Bark Brownies as gifts, each ingredient plays an essential role in making this treat truly unforgettable!
How to Make Peppermint Bark Brownies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This will ensure the brownies come out easily without sticking.
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Melt the dark chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, stirring until smooth and glossy. This indulgent mixture is the heart of your brownies!
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Whisk in granulated sugar and instant espresso powder into the melted chocolate until evenly combined. The espresso enhances the chocolate’s deep richness, making every bite more delightful.
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Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully blended. Follow this with the all-purpose flour, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing for that perfect fudgy texture.
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Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top for an even bake. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs—this ensures a fudgy consistency.
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Prepare the ganache by gently heating the white chocolate and heavy cream in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract for that festive flair.
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Spread the warm ganache over the cooled brownies, creating an even layer. Refrigerate until the ganache has set—about 30 minutes—making it easier to cut into squares later.
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Finish by sprinkling crushed candy canes atop the ganache. Their delightful crunch and festive color add a beautiful touch to the finished brownies before slicing.
Optional: Drizzle with dark chocolate for an extra touch of elegance and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Peppermint Bark Brownies
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Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality dark chocolate and white chocolate ensures your brownies have the best flavor and texture. Don’t settle for less!
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Cool Before Ganache: Always let the brownies cool completely before adding the ganache. This prevents the ganache from melting and losing its creamy consistency.
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining your batter, mix just until the flour is incorporated to maintain that rich, fudgy texture in your Peppermint Bark Brownies.
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Measure Precisely: Accurate measurements will help you achieve consistent results, especially when baking. Use a kitchen scale for precision if possible.
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Cut with Care: For clean-cut brownies, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices. This keeps your squares looking beautiful for serving!
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Bark Brownies are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you’d like, you can even bake the brownies ahead of time and keep them covered at room temperature for up to 3 days before adding the ganache. When you’re ready to finish them, make the ganache and let it set before topping with crushed candy canes. This way, you’ll still enjoy those rich and fudgy textures just as deliciously on serving day!
Peppermint Bark Brownies Variations
Customize your Peppermint Bark Brownies with these delightful twists that will spark creativity and surprise your taste buds!
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Milk Chocolate: Swap dark chocolate with milk chocolate for a sweeter and creamier brownie experience. This gentle variation is perfect for those who prefer a less intense chocolate flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a deliciously inclusive treat. The fudgy texture remains intact, ensuring no one misses out on this holiday delight!
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for a lovely crunch and depth of flavor. The nuts can be toasted lightly for an even richer taste.
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Minty Crunch: Use peppermint candies instead of crushed candy canes for a more robust mint flavor. The candies will melt slightly into the ganache, creating a delightful surprise in every bite.
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Extra Layers: Incorporate a swirl of caramel or chocolate fudge into the brownie batter before baking for an indulgent surprise. The ribbons of sweetness will make each slice more decadent.
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Flavored Ganache: Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or orange instead of peppermint for a unique twist on the ganache. Each flavor profile complements the brownies beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the brownie batter for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness. This intriguing variation brings complexity and warmth to your holiday treats.
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Festive Sprinkles: Top with colorful holiday-themed sprinkles instead of crushed candy canes for a fun and vibrant presentation. This small change can brighten up the visual appeal for any celebration!
Storage Tips for Peppermint Bark Brownies
Room Temperature: Store your Peppermint Bark Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and fudgy.
Fridge: For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator, wrapped in plastic wrap and then sealed in an airtight container. They’ll last for up to 1 week, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for optimal texture.
Freezer: To freeze, cut brownies into squares and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; they stay delicious for up to 2 months.
Reheating: If you’d like to enjoy them warm, simply microwave a brownie for about 10-15 seconds. This brings back that gooey goodness, making them oh-so-delightful!
What to Serve with Peppermint Bark Brownies?
When indulging in these rich and festive brownies, it’s perfect to complement them with delightful side dishes or drinks that enhance the overall experience.
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Hot Cocoa: The creamy sweetness of hot cocoa pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate and peppermint flavors, creating a cozy harmony. This classic drink will warm you up and enhance the festive spirit of your dessert.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. The creamy, cool taste is perfect against the fudgy brownies, elevating every mouthful.
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Fresh Mint Tea: This light, fragrant tea brings a refreshing element that balances the sweetness of the brownies. The mint notes echo the peppermint flavor, making it a cohesive experience.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling dark chocolate over the brownies offers an extra layer of indulgence. The richness deepens the chocolate experience while adding a touch of elegance to each serving.
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Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce can cut through the sweetness, providing a pleasant contrast while adding a festive touch to your dessert table. The vibrant color complements the holiday theme beautifully.
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Coffee: A hot cup of freshly brewed coffee can awaken your senses and enhance the flavor of the brownies. The slight bitterness of the coffee pairs smoothly with the rich sweetness of the chocolate.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a delightful contrast in both texture and taste. A dollop on top of the brownies can elevate your dessert into a charming indulgence.
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Chocolate Milkshake: For the ultimate treat, pair these brownies with an ice-cold chocolate milkshake. The creamy texture and chocolatey flavor will create a deliciously decadent experience.
These pairing ideas will surely enhance your enjoyment of Peppermint Bark Brownies, making your holiday gatherings even more memorable!
Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe FAQs
What type of dark chocolate should I use for Peppermint Bark Brownies?
Absolutely! I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content. This provides a rich, deep flavor that elevates your brownies. Stay away from baking chocolate that has added sugars or fillers, as they can affect the texture and taste.
How should I store my Peppermint Bark Brownies?
To keep your Peppermint Bark Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them wrapped in plastic wrap and inside an airtight container for up to a week. Remember to allow them to come to room temperature for optimal texture before serving!
Can I freeze Peppermint Bark Brownies? What’s the best way?
Absolutely! To freeze, first cut the brownies into squares and lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place the sheet in the freezer for about an hour to firm them up. Once solid, transfer the brownies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.
What if my brownies turn out too cakey instead of fudgy?
Very! A cakey texture can happen if the brownies are overbaked or if there’s too much flour mixed in. To troubleshoot, ensure you’re measuring flour accurately and avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour. Make sure to remove the brownies from the oven as soon as a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs—not clean—so they retain that fudgy consistency.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Just be sure to check that your other ingredients, like the chocolate and baking powder (if used), are also gluten-free. They should turn out just as delightful!
Is there a way to modify the recipe for allergy considerations?
Certainly! To make it dairy-free, you can use plant-based butter and dairy-free dark chocolate. For egg-free options, consider using flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) to bind the brownies. Just keep in mind that these alternatives may slightly change the texture and flavor, but they can still make for a delicious treat!
Peppermint Bark Brownies: A Festive Treat to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- Melt the dark chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, stirring until smooth and glossy.
- Whisk in granulated sugar and instant espresso powder into the melted chocolate until evenly combined.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Follow this with the all-purpose flour, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top for an even bake. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Prepare the ganache by gently heating the white chocolate and heavy cream in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until melted and smooth. Stir in peppermint extract.
- Spread the warm ganache over the cooled brownies, creating an even layer. Refrigerate until set—about 30 minutes.
- Finish by sprinkling crushed candy canes atop the ganache before slicing.