Peppermint Brownies

Peppermint Brownies are a delicious twist on classic chocolate brownies, perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. Imagine biting into a warm, fudgy brownie that melds rich chocolate with a refreshing peppermint essence—it’s a match made in dessert heaven! It’s not just the flavors that shine; these brownies are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for both experienced bakers and newbies. Picture a cozy kitchen filled with delightful aromas as you prepare this scrumptious treat. Your friends and family are sure to gather around, eager to share in the promise of something truly special. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on these wonderful Peppermint Brownies that will have everyone asking for the recipe!

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Why This Recipe Works

When it comes to the perfect Peppermint Brownies, a few key elements contribute to their success. The combination of melted butter and oil creates a rich and fudgy texture that is simply irresistible. Using high-quality cocoa powder ensures a deep chocolate flavor that elevates your brownies beyond the ordinary. Also, by adding both chocolate and peppermint chips, you not only enhance the complexity of the flavors but also keep the traditional brownie experience intact.

These components come together in a way that delivers a moist, flavorful brownie that will make you swoon. Each bite is a blend of rich chocolate and invigorating peppermint, creating an unforgettable treat.

Why You’ll Love These Peppermint Brownies

These Peppermint Brownies are more than just a dessert; they’re a festive treat that will elevate your gatherings. The unique peppermint twist makes them ideal for holidays or special occasions. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, so you can whip them up for family and friends without a hitch.

Beyond their simplicity, the refreshing peppermint flavor adds a delightful element that sets them apart from standard brownies. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them at home, they bring warmth and joy that everyone can appreciate.

Ingredients

To get started, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened Dutch process cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups white granulated sugar
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 egg yolk, room temperature
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup canola or vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup Andes peppermint chips

With everything ready, you’re closer to a delicious batch of Peppermint Brownies!

Preparing Your Peppermint Brownies

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Pan

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures even baking. Next, grab a 9×9 inch baking pan. Spray it with baking spray and line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper. This will make it super easy to remove the brownies later on. Give it another light spray for good measure!

Sift the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Sifting helps aerate the ingredients and remove lumps, ensuring a smooth batter. Once done, set this bowl aside for later.

Beat the Sugars and Eggs

Take out your mixer and combine the white granulated sugar, powdered sugar, and eggs, along with the egg yolk in a large bowl. Beat them on high speed for about 2 minutes or until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. This helps incorporate air, which is essential for a light texture.

Add Wet Ingredients

Now, add the melted butter, oil, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Mix on low speed until everything is smoothly combined. You want these flavors to meld together nicely.

Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Here’s a tip: avoid overmixing; it can make your brownies tough.

Fold in the Chips

Using a baking spatula, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and the Andes peppermint chips. Make sure the chips are evenly distributed throughout the batter; this will create pockets of melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

Pour and Spread the Batter

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with the spatula. This ensures that they bake uniformly, giving you that perfect texture.

Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 33-40 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are set and the center looks slightly underdone. This under-baking is key for that fudgy texture!

Cool and Cut

Once baked, take the hot pan out and place it on a cooling rack. Let the brownies cool completely before cutting them into squares. They will continue to set as they cool, giving you those perfect edges.

Serving Suggestions

When it’s time to serve these delicious brownies, you can really let your creativity shine! Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top; the warm brownie and cold ice cream contrast perfectly. For an extra indulgent twist, drizzle chocolate or peppermint syrup over the top.

To cozy up your dessert, accompany them with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. The pairing really enhances the flavors of your Peppermint Brownies.

Tips for Success

• Remember, for better emulsification, use eggs that are at room temperature.
• Keep an eye on your baking time—do not overbake to maintain that fudgy center.
• Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with these Peppermint Brownies! You can substitute peppermint chips with crushed candy canes for a crunchy texture that adds an extra layer of flavor. If you like nuts, try adding walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch.

For those on a gluten-free diet, consider using almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these tasty brownies without worry.

Storage Tips

To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to store them longer, freeze cut brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. It’s a great way to keep the decadence ready for whenever you crave something sweet!

Pairing Ideas

To truly enjoy these Peppermint Brownies, consider pairing them with a glass of cold milk for that classic combination. If you’re in the mood for something fruity, these brownies taste amazing alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries.

For an extra refreshing twist, accompany them with peppermint tea. It complements the flavors beautifully and makes for a cozy treat.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the brownies a day in advance and store them in an airtight container for freshness.

Q2: What can I substitute for peppermint chips?
Crushed candy canes work wonderfully in place of peppermint chips, or you can choose to leave them out for a traditional chocolate brownie.

Q3: How do I know when the brownies are done?
The edges will be set, but the center should still look slightly underbaked. If you insert a toothpick, it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached.

Q4: Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Using dark chocolate will enhance the flavor profile and make the brownies even richer.

Q5: What is the best way to cut brownies?
Use a sharp knife to cut and wipe it clean between cuts for neat edges.

These Peppermint Brownies are a delicious fusion of rich chocolate flavor and refreshing peppermint—perfect for any occasion! They’re easy to make, and they’ll surely impress your loved ones. Enjoy crafting these indulgent brownies and watch them disappear!

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