When the first whispers of winter settle in, there’s nothing quite like the comforting allure of fudge brownies. As the days grow colder and the holiday spirit beckons, I find myself drawn to the kitchen, eager to create something that captures the joy of the season. That’s how I discovered these Fudgy Peppermint Brownies—dense, rich, and decadently layered with silky fudge that melts in your mouth.
Imagine the delightful contrast of chewy brownie, creamy layers of white and dark chocolate fudge, and the invigorating crunch of festive crushed candy canes. Each bite is a harmonious dance of flavors and textures, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fire. Whether you’re sharing them at a cookie exchange or simply treating yourself after a long day, these brownies are sure to warm your heart and satisfy your chocolate cravings. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that is bound to become a holiday favorite!
Why are Fudgy Peppermint Brownies irresistible?
Decadent Layers: The rich, fudgy base pairs perfectly with creamy white and dark chocolate layers, creating a dessert experience unlike any other.
Festive Crunch: Topped with vibrant crushed candy canes, these brownies not only taste delightful but also look incredibly festive, making them a perfect centerpiece for your holiday dessert table.
Easy to Customize: Want a twist? Feel free to swap the peppermint extract for other flavors or try different chocolate variations to suit your tastes!
Quick to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these brownies in no time, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the season.
Crowd Favorite: Baking these fudgy delights ensures you’ll have plenty of happy faces and satisfied sweet tooths at your next gathering. Enjoy them with a scoop of ice cream or a warm cup of coffee for an extra special treat.
Fudgy Peppermint Brownies Ingredients
• Get ready to bake something magical!
For the Brownie Base
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free blend.
- Brown Sugar (packed) – Adds moisture and a warm molasses flavor; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a deeper taste.
- Large Eggs (room temperature) – Essential for binding; make sure they’re at room temperature for the best results.
- Unsalted Butter – Enhances richness and moisture; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free treat.
- Dark Chocolate Chips – Intensifies the chocolate flavor; consider semi-sweet chocolate if needed.
- Bittersweet Chocolate – The star of the fudgy base; semi-sweet chocolate can be used in a pinch.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness; a key ingredient for flavor enhancement.
- Cocoa Powder (unsweetened) – Deepens the chocolate essence; skip if you’re opting for a non-chocolate version.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the brownies; you can adjust to taste or swap for coconut sugar for a healthier option.
For the Fudge Layers
- White Chocolate Chips – Brings sweetness and creaminess; can be swapped for semi-sweet chocolate chips if desired.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Helps to bind and sweeten the fudge; look for dairy-free versions for a vegan option.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the fudge; more peppermint extract can be used to boost minty flavor.
For the Topping
- Crushed Candy Canes – Provides festive crunch and peppermint flavor; try almond or toffee bits for a twist.
- Crushed Candy Canes (finely crushed for garnish) – Adds an appealing visual touch and extra crunch on top.
- Peppermint Extract – Infuses the brownies with holiday flavor; can be omitted for a milder taste.
Let’s get baking and create that holiday magic with these fudgy peppermint brownies!
How to Make Fudgy Peppermint Brownies
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of those delicious brownies.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup cocoa powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Whisk them together and set aside until ready to use for a well-blended batter.
Crush Candy Canes: Take ½ cup of candy canes and coarsely crush them for the brownie batter, and crush an additional ¾ cup finely for the topping. The festive crunch will add a delightful texture!
Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a double boiler, melt 1 cup of dark chocolate chips and ½ cup of unsalted butter together over low heat. Stir continuously until smooth to avoid seizing.
Cool and Whisk: Allow the melted mixture to cool slightly, then whisk in 1 cup packed brown sugar, ½ cup granulated sugar, 3 large eggs (room temperature), and 1 teaspoon peppermint extract until glossy and well combined.
Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the dry mixture into the chocolate mixture until just combined. Then, fold in 1 cup of dark chocolate chips and the coarsely crushed candy canes for an extra minty surprise!
Bake: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
Prepare Fudge Layers: As the brownies cool, melt 1 cup of white chocolate chips with ½ cup sweetened condensed milk in a double boiler. Stir in 1 teaspoon peppermint extract for that signature flavor.
Layer the Fudge: Pour the white chocolate fudge layer over the cooled brownies, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate for about 20-30 minutes until slightly set.
Make Dark Chocolate Layer: Melt 1 cup dark chocolate chips and another ½ cup of sweetened condensed milk. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract before spreading over the white chocolate layer, ensuring an even distribution.
Top and Chill: Immediately sprinkle the finely crushed candy canes over the top before covering and refrigerating for at least 1-2 hours until fully set. This helps to give that nice, clean cut when slicing.
Serve and Enjoy: Once set, cut your delightful brownies into squares and prepare for compliments at your holiday gathering!
Optional: Drizzle with hot fudge or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Fudgy Peppermint Brownies
Room Temperature: Keep brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they retain their fudgy texture and flavor.
Fridge: Store brownies in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Lay parchment between layers to prevent sticking and wrap them well to keep them moist.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped squares of Fudgy Peppermint Brownies for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: If you prefer warm brownies, gently heat individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until just warmed through, enhancing their rich, fudgy appeal.
Expert Tips for Fudgy Peppermint Brownies
- Perfectly Moist: Avoid overbaking your brownies; a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs to maintain that fudginess.
- Gentle Melting: Use low heat and stir continuously when melting chocolate, preventing it from seizing and ensuring a smooth blend for the batter.
- Cool Before Cutting: Allow the brownie base to cool completely in the pan, and refrigerate before slicing for cleaner, more beautiful squares.
- Crunchy Topping: Add crushed candy canes right before serving. If added too early, they can turn sticky and lose that festive crunch.
- Flavor Swaps: Feel free to experiment with different extracts or chocolate types to customize your Fudgy Peppermint Brownies to suit your taste preferences!
Fudgy Peppermint Brownies Variations
Feel free to make these delightful brownies your own with these creative twists and substitutions!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy fudgy brownies without the gluten!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a completely dairy-free treat.
- Flavor Boost: Swap peppermint extract for orange or almond extract to create a unique flavor profile that’s equally festive.
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the brownie mixture for added crunch and flavor.
- Decadent Drizzle: Before serving, drizzle melted chocolate over the brownies for an extra touch of indulgence—who can resist more chocolate?
- Bold Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the brownie batter for a surprising kick that complements the sweetness wonderfully!
- Fruit Twist: Fold in some finely chopped cherries or raspberries for a fruity twist that adds a refreshing contrast to the chocolate richness.
- Fudgy Layers: Experiment with using different types of fudge, such as caramel or butterscotch, for a unique layer of flavor and richness.
Let your imagination run wild and create your own signature version of these tempting fudgy peppermint brownies!
What to Serve with Fudgy Peppermint Brownies?
Indulge your senses by creating a complete holiday experience with these delightful brownies.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool contrast perfectly complements the rich fudginess, creating a heavenly dessert combination.
- Hot Chocolate: A warm mug of this classic drink enhances the chocolate flavor, making for a dreamy winter treat. It’s a nostalgic pairing that comforts the soul!
- Peppermint Mocha: Enjoy a cup of this festive coffee blend for a pleasing synergy of chocolate and mint that resonates with the flavors of the brownies.
- Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle a velvety ganache over the brownies for an extra layer of rich chocolate indulgence that your guests will adore.
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries offers a delightful contrast that balances the sweetness of the brownies while adding a fresh touch to every bite.
- Mint Tea: Sip on a soothing mint tea alongside your brownies to accentuate the peppermint flavor while providing a refreshing palate cleanser.
- Holiday Fruit Salad: A bowl of crisp apples, oranges, and pomegranate seeds complements the richness with a fresh, vibrant option on your dessert table.
- Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: These sweet and salty bites bring an exciting texture contrast, making your dessert spread even more delightful and inviting.
- Sparkling Water: For a lighter drink pairing, opt for sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice to cleanse the palate while enjoying your decadent treat!
Enjoy your festive gatherings with these perfect accompaniments to elevate your Fudgy Peppermint Brownies!
Make Ahead Options
These Fudgy Peppermint Brownies are a dream come true for busy home cooks! You can easily prepare the brownie base up to 24 hours in advance; just bake them, let them cool completely, and store them tightly wrapped at room temperature. Additionally, the fudge layers can be made up to 3 days ahead; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers after layering them on top. To maintain quality, ensure the brownies are completely cooled before wrapping to prevent moisture buildup. When ready to serve, slice into squares and let them sit for a few minutes to soften slightly, ensuring every bite remains as rich and fudgy as intended. Enjoy the time-saving benefits without sacrificing the deliciousness of these festive treats!
Fudgy Peppermint Brownies Recipe FAQs
What type of chocolate should I use for the brownies?
For the ultimate fudgy flavor, I recommend using a mix of bittersweet and dark chocolate. If you’re in a pinch, semi-sweet chocolate can serve as an adequate substitute but will yield a slightly sweeter result. Always opt for good-quality chocolate to truly elevate the richness of your brownies!
How can I tell if my brownies are done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of your brownies. It should come out with a few moist crumbs attached without any wet batter. Typically, this will take about 30-35 minutes, but ovens can vary. Remember, they will continue to cook slightly while cooling in the pan, so a little underbaking is better to maintain that desired fudginess.
What is the best way to store my Fudgy Peppermint Brownies?
To retain their rich texture and flavor, place the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, but be sure to use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. For freezer storage, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
Can I make Fudgy Peppermint Brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make these brownies gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Many blends on the market work wonderfully in baked goods, but for best results, look for one designed for cake or brownies. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binding agent for the right texture.
How do I freeze Fudgy Peppermint Brownies properly?
To freeze your brownies, let them cool completely first. Then, cut them into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped brownies in a resealable freezer bag to protect against freezer burn. Date the bag for reference, and enjoy them within 3 months for the best taste. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes, it’s important to note that these brownies contain common allergens such as eggs and dairy from the butter and chocolate. If you’re preparing these for someone with allergies, consider using vegan alternatives, such as replacing the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and using dairy-free chocolate and vegan butter. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they meet dietary restrictions.
Decadent Fudgy Peppermint Brownies for Holiday Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Whisk together.
- Crush Candy Canes: Coarsely crush half a cup of candy canes for the batter and finely crush three-quarters cup for topping.
- Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a double boiler, melt dark chocolate chips with unsalted butter until smooth.
- Cool and Whisk: Allow the melted mixture to cool, then whisk in brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and peppermint extract.
- Combine Ingredients: Fold the dry mixture into the chocolate mixture and add dark chocolate chips and coarse candy canes.
- Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Prepare Fudge Layers: Melt white chocolate chips with sweetened condensed milk and stir in peppermint extract.
- Layer the Fudge: Pour the white chocolate fudge layer over the cooled brownies.
- Make Dark Chocolate Layer: Melt dark chocolate chips with another half cup of sweetened condensed milk and stir in vanilla extract.
- Top and Chill: Sprinkle finely crushed candy canes over the top and refrigerate until fully set.
- Serve and Enjoy: Cut into squares and enjoy your brownies!