Frosted Peppermint Brownies

Frosted Peppermint Brownies are the ultimate treat that combines the rich decadence of brownies with a festive peppermint twist. Imagine sinking your teeth into a fudgy, chocolatey base topped with a creamy mint ganache, and then sprinkled with crunchy candy canes. This delightful combination is not only perfect for holiday celebrations but also brings a sweet warmth to any chilly day. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or just treating yourself, these brownies are guaranteed to bring smiles to the faces of your family and friends. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on making these delicious little morsels of joy!

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Why This Recipe Works

Frosted Peppermint Brownies are a delightful fusion of rich, fudgy brownie texture and a creamy, minty frosting that evokes the warmth and joy of the holiday season. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between chocolatey goodness and refreshing peppermint flavor, making every bite a celebration of festive cheer.

Why You’ll Love This Frosted Peppermint Brownies

Each bite of these Frosted Peppermint Brownies offers a luscious melt-in-your-mouth experience that is enhanced by the crunch of candy canes. The recipe is straightforward, making it achievable for bakers of any skill level. Plus, these brownies make for an irresistible holiday dessert that is sure to impress family and friends!

Ingredient List

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 10 mini candy canes, crushed

Making Frosted Peppermint Brownies

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven gets nice and hot, line an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This will make it super easy to remove the brownies later.

Create the Brownie Batter

In a mixing bowl, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Then, mix in 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder until smooth and well combined. Now, set this mixture aside for a moment. In a separate bowl, beat together 2 large eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes. You want it to look creamy and slightly lighter in color.

Combine Ingredients

Once the egg-sugar mixture is ready, turn off the mixer. Add in the 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gently fold in the melted chocolate-butter mixture until everything is fully combined. This part is important to ensure that all those wonderful flavors blend together.

Incorporate the Flour

Next, gradually mix in 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour. Just do this until everything is combined, but be careful not to overmix it. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to create a smooth surface.

Bake the Brownies

Now it’s time to bake! Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they’re ready. Once baked, let them cool completely in the pan before moving on to the icing.

Prepare the Ganache Frosting

For the ganache frosting, heat 1 cup of heavy cream in a saucepan until it simmers. Then, pour that hot cream over 8 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a mixing bowl. Allow it to sit for about a minute before stirring until the chocolate is fully melted and silky smooth.

Frost the Brownies

Once your brownies are completely cool, pour the heavenly ganache evenly over the top. To make it extra special, sprinkle crushed candy canes over the ganache for a festive crunch. Allow the brownies to set either at room temperature or in the fridge if you want to speed things up!

Cut and Serve

After the brownies have set, cut them into 9 equal squares. Now comes the best part—serving them! You’ll definitely want to enjoy these festive treats with friends and family.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Frosted Peppermint Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert. Pair them with hot cocoa or coffee to enhance their flavors. Trust me; this combo will take your dessert game to a whole new level!

Tips for Success

• Make sure not to overmix the brownie batter. This is the secret to keeping them fudgy!
• Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring it over the brownies. This step gives you a glossier finish.
• Using high-quality chocolate chips can make a world of difference in taste.

Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few fun variations:
– You can substitute peppermint extract with orange or almond for a different flavor profile.
– Adding walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter can introduce a delightful crunch.
– Drizzling white chocolate over the top not only enhances flavor but adds a beautiful decorative touch too.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly so they stay fresh!

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of cocoa powder?
Yes, both Dutch-processed and natural cocoa powder work well, though they will slightly change the flavor profile.

2. How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Check with a toothpick; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet), they are done.

3. Can I make these brownies without eggs?
You can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option.

4. How do I ensure my ganache stays shiny?
Avoid boiling the cream and ensure you properly stir until the chocolate is fully melted.

5. Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger baking pan and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Frosted Peppermint Brownies are not just a dessert; they’re a sweet warm hug during the festive season. With their rich chocolate base and minty frosting, they are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or as a gift to family and friends. Whip up a batch, and watch everyone reach for seconds!

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