Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe holiday season often brings a delightful chaos of flavors, but nothing quite hits the sweet spot like Peppermint Bark Brownies. These irresistible treats combine rich chocolatey brownies with a refreshing peppermint kick and a luscious white chocolate topping that practically shines with festive cheer. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to whip up—so easy, in fact, that you can make them using a boxed brownie mix if you’re in a pinch. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, these brownies not only look stunning on any dessert table but also satisfy those chocolate cravings without requiring hours in the kitchen. Are you ready to spread some holiday joy with a batch of these delicious brownies? Why Are Peppermint Bark Brownies So Special? Irresistible Combination: The fusion of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a delightful contrast that will leave taste buds dancing with joy. Quick and Easy: With the option to use a boxed brownie mix, it’s a breeze to whip these up in no time—even on your busiest days! Festive Appeal: Visually stunning with a vibrant topping, these brownies are perfect for holiday gatherings, guaranteed to impress guests young and old. Versatile Variations: Feel free to get creative! Substitute the white chocolate for milk chocolate or add nuts for a unique twist. Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether served at parties or cozy family nights, these brownies are a guaranteed hit, making them a must-try this festive season. Peppermint Bark Brownie Ingredients For the Brownies • Unsalted Butter – Provides rich moisture and ensures the perfect fudgy texture; if using salted butter, reduce or omit added salt for balance. • Sugar – Essential for sweetness and structure, helping to create that irresistible brownie base. • Brownie Mix – The quickest way to achieve brownie bliss; if in a hurry, opt for a boxed mix and enhance it with crushed peppermint candies. • Peppermint Extract – Infuses the brownies with a refreshing minty flavor, elevating your dessert experience. For the Topping • White Chocolate – This creamy topping adds a sweet contrast to the rich chocolate base; feel free to swap for milk chocolate for a different delightful taste. • Crushed Peppermint Candies – Sprinkled on top, they add a festive crunch and vibrant color; can be substituted with crushed candy canes for variety. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Bark Brownies Step 1: Preheat Oven Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your oven reaches the perfect temperature for baking the brownies. While it heats up, you can get your baking dish ready, which will save you time later. Step 2: Prepare Baking Dish Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Make sure to cover the bottom and corners thoroughly to prevent any sticking. A well-prepared pan is essential for achieving that perfect, fudgy texture in your Peppermint Bark Brownies. Step 3: Mix Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of melted unsalted butter and 1 cup of sugar, stirring briskly until blended together. Afterward, add in your brownie mix and mix until smooth and creamy. This process should take about 2-3 minutes; watch for a rich, glossy batter that signals you’re on the right track. Step 4: Add Flavorings Stir in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the brownie batter, followed by 1 cup of crushed peppermint candies. These ingredients contribute that delightful minty flavor and festive crunch. Make sure everything is evenly distributed before transitioning to the baking step. Step 5: Bake Pour the peppermint brownie mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking! Step 6: Cool Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. This cooling period helps them set properly, making cutting easier later. You’ll want to let the edges firm up while keeping the center a touch soft for that gooey brownie experience. Step 7: Prepare Topping While the brownies cool, melt 1 cup of white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and creamy without any lumps. This luscious, melted chocolate will serve as the perfect topping for your peppermint indulgence. Step 8: Garnish Once the brownies have cooled completely, spread the melted white chocolate evenly over the top. Sprinkle additional crushed peppermint candies over the chocolate layer before it sets for a visually appealing and crunchy finish. This step adds both flair and flavor to your Peppermint Bark Brownies. Step 9: Slice & Serve After the chocolate topping has fully set, use a sharp knife to slice the brownies into squares. Serve them fresh or store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week. These Peppermint Bark Brownies will shine at any festive gathering, bringing joy with every decadent bite! Make Ahead Options These Peppermint Bark Brownies are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to save time and reduce stress during the busy holiday season. You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix your ingredients and store the batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The topping can also be made ahead—melt the white chocolate and mix in crushed peppermint candies, and refrigerate it separately. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the chilled batter into your prepared pan and bake as directed. After cooling, spread your topping, and you’ll have perfectly festive brownies just waiting to bring joy to your gathering! Expert Tips for Peppermint Bark Brownies • Use Quality Ingredients: Choosing high-quality chocolate and butter can elevate your brownies, making them even more delicious. • Avoid Overmixing: When combining your ingredients, mix just until smooth. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of the desired fudgy texture. • Cool Before Topping: Allow your brownies to cool completely after baking; this prevents the white chocolate from melting too quickly when applied. • Storage Savvy: Keep your Peppermint Bark Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness, to maintain that perfect chewy texture. • Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to switch up the peppermint extract or toppings; consider adding nuts or using flavored chocolates for a unique twist. Storage Tips for Peppermint Bark Brownies Room Temperature: Store the Peppermint Bark Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them soft and chewy, ready for indulgence whenever cravings strike. Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, place the brownies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, but let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the brownies in a single layer, separated by parchment paper, for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying. Reheating: To revive their freshly-baked taste, warm individual brownies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just enough to get that chocolate melted again and the flavors back in action! What to Serve with Peppermint Bark Brownies? A delightful choice for holiday treats, these brownies can be perfectly complemented by a variety of foods and drinks that enhance their festive flavors. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate and peppermint flavors of the brownies, creating a delightful combination. Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm mug of hot chocolate topped with whipped cream offers a cozy pairing that pairs beautifully with the peppermint kick, perfect for a chilly evening. Coffee: A steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee balances the sweetness, making it an ideal companion to enjoy alongside your delicious brownies. The bitterness of coffee enhances the flavors beautifully. Chocolate Mousse: Rich and airy, chocolate mousse adds a sophisticated touch that pairs exceptionally well with the fudgy brownies, providing a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the brownies. The natural sweetness complements the dessert beautifully. Sparkling Water: For a light, bubbly refreshment, sparkling water garnished with mint or a slice of lemon offers a palate-cleansing contrast, making it a great choice alongside sweet treats. Enjoy mixing and matching these suggestions for a festive spread that will create lasting memories and cheerful moments around your dessert table! Peppermint Bark Brownies Variations Feel free to customize your Peppermint Bark Brownies and make them truly your own with these fun and flavorful twists! Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute to achieve that rich texture without any dairy. This option not only keeps your brownies dairy-free but also adds a subtle tropical flavor that complements the mint beautifully. Gluten-Free: Opt for a gluten-free brownie mix instead of the regular kind. You won’t miss a thing with this swap, ensuring your brownies remain indulgent and satisfying for those with dietary restrictions. Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for a crunchy contrast. Imagine the delightful texture and flavor combination; the nuts will elevate your brownies to new heights of deliciousness! Minty Boost: Double down on the peppermint by incorporating additional crushed peppermint candies into the batter. A mint lover’s dream, this variation adds an extra layer of refreshing flavor that’s sure to please during the holiday season. Citrus Twist: Substitute peppermint extract with orange extract or lemon zest for a refreshing change. This bright twist will bring a burst of sunshine to your brownies, making them feel vibrant and unique. Chocolate Lovers: Go for a combination of white chocolate and dark chocolate by melting both for the topping. The pairing creates a rich, sweet, and slightly bittersweet flavor profile that any chocolate enthusiast will adore. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the brownie batter for a surprising kick. This unexpected touch will excite your taste buds and balance the sweetness, creating a memorable treat for adventurous eaters. Cheesecake Swirl: Add a cream cheese swirl on top before baking to introduce a creamy richness. This layer not only adds an extra texture but also marries the chocolate and peppermint flavors in a superbly decadent way. Don’t forget, if you want to save time, using a boxed brownie mix can make these variations even quicker to whip up! Enjoy exploring various flavors and textures as you spread holiday cheer with these delightful treats. Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe FAQs What type of butter should I use for Peppermint Bark Brownies? I recommend using unsalted butter for the best flavor and control over saltiness. If you choose salted butter, simply reduce or omit any additional salt in the recipe to keep a balanced taste. How should I store leftover Peppermint Bark Brownies? Store the Peppermint Bark Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their chewy texture. If you prefer them chilled, they can also be kept in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, but be sure to let them return to room temperature for optimal flavor before indulging! Can I freeze Peppermint Bark Brownies, and if so, how? Absolutely! To freeze your brownies, first, let them cool completely. Then, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, stacking layers with parchment paper in between. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature. What should I do if my brownies come out too dry? If your Peppermint Bark Brownies turn out dry, it might be due to overbaking or using too much flour. Keep an eye on them while baking; they should come out set but still slightly soft in the middle. If they still feel dry, consider serving them with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to add moisture and richness. Are Peppermint Bark Brownies safe for pets or those with allergies? It’s important to note that these brownies contain chocolate and sugar, both of which are not safe for pets like dogs and cats. Additionally, check for allergies related to ingredients such as butter and peppermint. For a nut-free or gluten-free version, consider using appropriate substitutes, like nut-free brownie mix or gluten-free flour—so everyone can enjoy! Peppermint Bark Brownies: Irresistibly Festive and Easy to Make These Peppermint Bark Brownies combine rich chocolate brownies with a refreshing peppermint kick and a luscious white chocolate topping, perfect for the holiday season. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsCooling Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 16 squaresCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Brownies1 cup Unsalted Butter Melted1 cup Sugar1 box Brownie Mix Use boxed mix for convenience1 teaspoon Peppermint ExtractFor the Topping1 cup White Chocolate Chips, melted1 cup Crushed Peppermint Candies Or crushed candy canes Equipment Mixing bowlbaking panSpatulaMicrowave-safe bowl Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Peppermint Bark BrowniesPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking dish while the oven heats.Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.In a large mixing bowl, combine melted unsalted butter and sugar. Mix until blended.Add brownie mix and mix until smooth.Stir in peppermint extract and crushed peppermint candies.Pour the brownie mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.Allow brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes.Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth.Spread melted white chocolate over cooled brownies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.Slice into squares once the chocolate topping is set. Nutrition Serving: 1squareCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 2IUCalcium: 2mgIron: 2mg NotesUse quality ingredients for the best results and avoid overmixing the batter to maintain a fudgy texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
