Easy Peppermint Brownies Recipe
Introduction
These easy peppermint brownies combine rich chocolate flavor with a refreshing hint of mint, perfect for holiday treats or any time you want a festive twist. They are quick to prepare and deliver a chewy, indulgent bite with a crunchy peppermint topping.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp pure mint extract
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candy canes
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- Step 2: Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in granulated sugar until combined.
- Step 3: Remove from heat; whisk in eggs one at a time, then add the mint extract.
- Step 4: Gently fold in cocoa powder and flour until just combined.
- Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Step 6: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top while the brownies are still warm. Allow to cool completely before slicing.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer taste, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour.
- Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for extra gooeyness.
- Use peppermint oil instead of mint extract if you prefer a stronger mint flavor—start with half a teaspoon and adjust to taste.
- If you don’t have candy canes, crushed peppermint candies or peppermint baking chips work well too.
Storage
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm a brownie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back some softness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of mint extract?
Yes, you can substitute vanilla extract if you prefer a classic chocolate brownie flavor without peppermint.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter. This ensures the brownies are fudgy without being undercooked.
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Easy Peppermint Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
Description
These Easy Peppermint Brownies are a delightful twist on classic brownies, infused with refreshing mint extract and topped with crushed peppermint candy canes for a festive touch. Perfect for holiday gatherings or whenever you crave a minty chocolate treat, these fudgy brownies are simple to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp pure mint extract
Topping
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candy canes
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan to prevent the brownies from sticking.
- Melt Butter and Combine with Sugar: Melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over low heat, then stir in the granulated sugar until the mixture is well combined.
- Add Eggs and Mint Extract: Remove the saucepan from heat. Whisk in the eggs one at a time to fully incorporate them, then add the pure mint extract and mix well.
- Fold in Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the unsweetened cocoa powder and all-purpose flour just until the batter is combined, taking care not to overmix to ensure fudgy brownies.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Add Peppermint Topping and Cool: Immediately after baking, sprinkle the crushed peppermint candy canes evenly over the warm brownies. Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Do not overbake to keep the brownies moist and fudgy.
- Use pure mint extract for an authentic mint flavor without added sweetness.
- For stronger peppermint flavor, add a teaspoon of peppermint extract with the mint extract.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: easy peppermint brownies, peppermint brownies, mint brownies, chocolate mint brownies, holiday brownies, festive brownies
