Name: Irresistible Peppermint Bark Brownies for Your Holiday Joy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Provides richness; using unsalted gives you better control over saltiness.); 2 cups Sugar (Sweetens the brownies while contributing to their fudgy texture.); 4 large Eggs (Binds the ingredients together, ensuring a rich and dense brownie.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Creates structure, helping achieve that perfect chewy brownie texture.); 3/4 cup Cocoa Powder (Intensifies the chocolate flavor, adding depth to your brownies.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Acts as a leavening agent for a tender and slightly risen crumb.); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (Infuses the brownie with a lovely holiday flavor; adjust to your taste.); 1 cup Crushed Peppermint Candies; 1 cup Chocolate for Topping (Melts beautifully to create a luscious layer of chocolatey goodness on the brownies.)

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As the first notes of holiday music twinkle through the air, I find myself yearning for comforting treats that capture the essence of the season. That’s where my Easy Peppermint Bark Brownies come in, bringing together a rich chocolate base with a delightful crunch of peppermint bark on top. Not only are these brownies surprisingly quick to prepare, but they also serve as the perfect dessert to impress friends and family at festive gatherings. Just imagine the warm, chocolaty aroma wafting through your kitchen as you whip up a batch; it’s the kind of magic that transforms a simple evening into something special. Ready to dive into this seasonal delight that effortlessly marries traditional flavors with modern convenience? Let’s get baking!

Why are These Brownies a Must-Try?

Decadent Chocolate Delight: The richness of the chocolate base pairs beautifully with the refreshing crunch of peppermint bark, creating a festive treat that’s hard to resist.

Easy to Make: With quick preparation and simple ingredients, these brownies are perfect for novice bakers and busy cooks alike.

Impressive Presentation: Topped with glossy melted chocolate and peppermints, they make for a stunning dessert at any holiday gathering.

Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in your favorite chocolate or add nuts for an extra crunch—customize these based on your cravings!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Warm or cold, these brownies are sure to be a hit during holiday celebrations, making them an excellent option for sharing.

Don’t forget to check out my tips on storage tips to keep these delicious brownies fresh!

Peppermint Bark Brownie Ingredients

For the Brownie Base

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness; using unsalted gives you better control over saltiness.
Sugar – Sweetens the brownies while contributing to their fudgy texture.
Eggs – Binds the ingredients together, ensuring a rich and dense brownie.
All-Purpose Flour – Creates structure, helping achieve that perfect chewy brownie texture.
Cocoa Powder – Intensifies the chocolate flavor, adding depth to your brownies.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a tender and slightly risen crumb.
Peppermint Extract – Infuses the brownie with a lovely holiday flavor; adjust to your taste.

For the Topping

Crushed Peppermint Candies – Adds a crunchy topping and extra peppermint zing; or swap with chocolate chips for a chocolate-rich twist.
Chocolate for Topping – Melts beautifully to create a luscious layer of chocolatey goodness on the brownies.

These Peppermint Bark Brownies are a delightful treat that melds holiday cheer with decadent flavor, perfect for your festive gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Bark Brownies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grab an 8-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This setup ensures your Peppermint Bark Brownies will slide out effortlessly when they’re ready.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter with 2 cups of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. The sugar should almost dissolve into the butter, creating a pale-colored mixture that signals it’s ready for the next ingredients.

Step 3: Add Eggs
Next, add 4 large eggs to your creamed mixture, one at a time. Mix on low speed for about 30 seconds after adding each egg, ensuring it’s fully incorporated before adding the next. This process will help create a rich, dense texture for your Peppermint Bark Brownies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup of cocoa powder, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing on low until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough brownies.

Step 5: Flavor with Peppermint
Now, pour in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, blending it into the brownie batter. The delightful aroma of peppermint will fill your kitchen, confirming its readiness for the next delicious step. Take a moment to savor that holiday spirit while mixing gently.

Step 6: Fold in Peppermint Candies
Using a spatula, gently fold in 1 cup of crushed peppermint candies into the brownie batter. This will add a delightful crunch and burst of flavor on top of your brownies. Make sure the candies are evenly distributed throughout the mixture for an extra festive touch in every bite.

Step 7: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform baking. Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs for that perfect fudgy texture.

Step 8: Cool and Top
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. After cooling, use the parchment overhang to lift them out. Melt 1 cup of chocolate in a microwave or double boiler, and pour it over the cooled brownies, spreading it evenly.

Step 9: Decorate and Serve
While the melted chocolate is still warm, sprinkle additional crushed peppermint candies on top for a festive finish. Let the brownies set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then cut them into squares. Your delightful Peppermint Bark Brownies are ready to be served!

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Bark Brownies are a wonderful candidate for meal prep, saving you time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all your ingredients as outlined in the recipe and store the batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When it’s time to bake, allow the batter to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before spreading it into your prepared pan and baking as directed. Additionally, the finished brownies can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Just add the chocolate topping shortly before serving, so it’s glossy and fresh! Enjoy stress-free entertaining with these make-ahead treats that are just as delicious as when they’re freshly baked!

Peppermint Bark Brownies: Creative Twists

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these brownies; the possibilities are endless!

Dairy-Free: Substitute regular butter with a dairy-free margarine for a delicious plant-based version.
Nuts Galore: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for an extra crunch; they bring a wonderful richness and texture.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour while maintaining the same lovely texture.
Minty Fresh: Boost the peppermint flavor by adding an extra teaspoon of peppermint extract or using mint chocolate chips instead.
Indulgent Chocolate: Swap semi-sweet chocolate with rich dark chocolate for an intense cocoa experience in every bite.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the batter for a surprising kick that pairs well with the chocolate and peppermint!
Layered Delight: Create a layered effect by dividing the batter and alternating layers of peppermint candies and brownie mix before baking.
Boxed Brownie Hack: Use a boxed brownie mix for a shortcut, then add crushed peppermint candies directly into the batter for an easy seasonal twist.

Don’t forget, these delightful Peppermint Bark Brownies can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or paired with a cup of hot cocoa for a cozy dessert experience! For more storage ideas, take a peek at my tips on how to store and freeze peppermint bark brownies.

Expert Tips for Perfect Peppermint Bark Brownies

Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to ensure your brownies stay fudgy. Overmixing can lead to a dry texture.
Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality chocolate and unsweetened cocoa powder for richer flavor in your Peppermint Bark Brownies that truly shine.
Chill for Easy Cutting: Refrigerate the brownies for about 30 minutes before cutting them into squares to get clean, neat edges.
Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to adapt the topping by swapping crushed peppermint with nuts or festive sprinkles based on your preference.
Watch Baking Time: Start checking your brownies 5 minutes before the minimum baking time; you want moist crumbs, not a dry toothpick!
Storage Mindset: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature; they can stay fresh for up to 5 days, but they’ll never last that long!

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Bark Brownies

Room Temperature: Keep brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their fudgy texture and flavor.

Fridge: For extended freshness, store brownies in the refrigerator for up to 10 days, just be sure to wrap them to prevent drying out.

Freezer: Freeze individual brownies wrapped in plastic and then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying again.

Reheating: To reheat, place the brownies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm for that fresh-baked taste—perfect for satisfying cravings!

What to Serve with Peppermint Bark Brownies?

As you delight in these festive brownies, consider pairing them with complementary bites and sips to elevate your holiday gatherings.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy ice cream enhances the brownies’ richness and creates a delightful contrast in temperature. The smooth vanilla flavor perfectly balances the minty freshness.
Coffee or Hot Cocoa: These warm beverages add coziness to your dessert experience. The rich flavors of coffee or hot cocoa deepen the chocolate notes of the brownies.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a luscious texture to each bite. Its subtle sweetness pairs beautifully with the peppermint zing.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The fresh berries offer a juicy contrast to the dense brownies, making for a refreshing combo that’s ideal for holiday parties.
Peppermint Mocha: This seasonal drink adds a festive flair, with its rich espresso flavor and peppermint sweetness harmonizing perfectly with the brownies.
Nutty Biscotti: For a crunchy side, serve biscotti to dip alongside your brownies. Their delightful texture and nutty flavor provide a tasty contrast.
Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness to your dessert spread. The natural sweetness and acidity can enhance the chocolate’s complexity.
Decaf Tea: A soothing herbal tea complements the rich flavors of the brownies and offers a comforting end to a festive celebration.
Cheese Plate: A selection of creamy cheeses can provide a savory counterpoint to the sweet brownies, enhancing the dining experience.
Sparkling Water: For those who prefer a refreshing drink, sparkling water adds a bubbly touch, cleansing the palate between sweet bites.

Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right peppermint candies?
When choosing peppermint candies, look for fresh, vibrant candies without any dark spots, which can indicate staleness. I recommend using mini candy canes or crushed peppermint for a festive touch. The colors should be bright, as this indicates freshness and adds visual appeal to your brownies.

What’s the best way to store leftover brownies?
To keep your Peppermint Bark Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be refrigerated for up to 10 days, but be sure to wrap them well to prevent drying out. When stored properly, they retain their fudgy texture and rich flavors.

Can I freeze these brownies?
Absolutely! To freeze your brownies, wrap each individual piece in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked warmth.

What should I do if my brownies turn out dry?
If your brownies come out dry, it may be due to overbaking or overmixing the batter. To avoid this in the future, start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time. When testing with a toothpick, it should come out with a few moist crumbs. If you prefer a gooier texture, you can also add an extra egg or a tablespoon of oil to the batter.

Are these brownies safe for pets or individuals with allergies?
Unfortunately, these Peppermint Bark Brownies contain chocolate and sugar, both of which are harmful to pets such as dogs and cats. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, be sure to check for allergens in ingredients like eggs and nuts or use suitable substitutes as needed. Always double-check the labels if someone has a food sensitivity.