Sweet & Frosty Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies Recipe

Decadent peppermint hot chocolate brownies merge winter’s most comforting flavors into one irresistible dessert.

Rich chocolate layers mingle with cool mint undertones, creating a sensational treat.

Soft, fudgy textures invite indulgence with every single bite.

Cocoa’s deep warmth combines perfectly with crisp peppermint notes.

Winter nights call for something special that warms both heart and palate.

Quick preparation means you can whip up this delightful dessert in under an hour.

Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for an extra festive touch that makes everyone smile.

Why You’ll Crave Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies

• Combine the classic richness of chocolate brownies with the refreshing zing of peppermint for a holiday-inspired treat that will wow your guests.
• Easily whip up these brownies with straightforward ingredients and basic baking techniques, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Personalize the brownies by adding chocolate chips, topping with marshmallows, or sprinkling crushed peppermint candies for a unique and eye-catching dessert.
• Enjoy a decadent dessert that brings together the cozy warmth of chocolate and the cool, invigorating flavor of peppermint, perfect for winter gatherings and holiday celebrations.

Ingredients in Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies

• All-Purpose Flour: Base for the brownie structure.
• Cocoa Powder: Provides rich chocolate flavor.
• Baking Powder: Helps brownies rise and become fluffy.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor.

• Unsalted Butter: Creates moisture and richness.
• Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and depth.
• Eggs: Binds ingredients and provides structure.

• Peppermint Extract: Adds cool, refreshing mint taste.
• Chocolate Chips: Provides extra chocolate bursts.

• Mini Marshmallows, Crushed Peppermint Candies: Adds festive texture and decoration.

How to Bake Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Set your oven to a cozy 350°F, getting ready for some chocolatey magic.

Step 2: Prepare The Baking Home

Grab an 8×8-inch pan and either grease it generously or line with parchment paper for easy brownie removal.

Step 3: Create The Dry Mixture

• All-purpose flour
• Cocoa powder
• Baking powder
• Salt

Whisk these ingredients until they’re perfectly blended.

Step 4: Blend The Wet Ingredients

• Melted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar

Whisk until the mixture looks smooth and glossy.

Step 5: Incorporate The Eggs

Add eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition to create a silky batter.

Step 6: Add Peppermint Punch

Pour in the peppermint extract, giving your brownies a cool, refreshing twist.

Step 7: Marry The Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.

Don’t overmix!

Step 8: Boost With Chocolate

If using, fold chocolate chips into the batter for extra decadence.

Step 9: Pour And Spread

Transfer the batter to your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 10: Bake To Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.

The brownies are ready when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 11: Marshmallow Magic

Once baked, immediately scatter mini marshmallows across the top of the brownies.

Step 12: Golden Marshmallow Finish

Return the pan to the oven for 2-3 minutes, letting the marshmallows puff up and turn a beautiful golden brown.

Step 13: Cool And Calm

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes.

Step 14: Festive Finale

Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the top for a delightful holiday touch.

Step 15: Slice And Serve

Cut into squares and enjoy your peppermint hot chocolate brownies!

Smart Tips for Peppermint Brownies

• Use room temperature butter and melt it slowly to prevent burning, ensuring a smooth, even texture in your brownie batter.
• Start with less peppermint extract and taste, gradually adding more to achieve your desired mint flavor without overwhelming the chocolate.
• Watch marshmallows closely when broiling to prevent burning, removing them from the oven the moment they turn golden and puffy for the best topping.
• Allow brownies to cool completely and use a sharp knife dipped in hot water between cuts for clean, precise squares that look professional.
• Keep brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain moisture.

Best Way to Store Peppermint Brownies

• Seal brownies in an airtight container, layer with parchment paper between pieces to prevent sticking. Keep chilled for up to 5 days.
• Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bag. Freeze for maximum 3 months to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
• Place brownies in sealed container at room temperature, consuming within 2-3 days for best quality and freshness.
• Warm refrigerated brownies in microwave for 10-15 seconds, or in oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes until slightly soft and marshmallows become gooey again.

Peppermint Brownies Serving Matches

• Intensify Mint Flavor: Serve alongside a chilled peppermint schnapps cocktail that complements the brownie's cool mint undertones, creating a harmonious blend of chocolate and refreshing mint sensations.
• Balance Rich Dessert: Choose a light, crisp vanilla bean latte that cuts through the brownie's dense chocolate texture, providing a smooth counterpoint and cleansing the palate between bites.
• Enhance Chocolate Depth: Select a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon, which brings out the deep cocoa notes and adds a sophisticated wine-chocolate pairing that elevates the dessert experience.
• Complement Sweet Profile: Offer a scoop of creamy peppermint ice cream that echoes the brownie's mint element while adding a cold, smooth contrast to the warm, rich chocolate base.

Flavor Twists on Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies

• Gluten-Free Chocolate Haven: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free blend for celiac-friendly brownies without compromising rich chocolate flavor.
• Vegan Peppermint Dream: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use coconut oil instead of butter, and select dairy-free chocolate chips to create plant-based brownie experience.
• Keto Chocolate Delight: Substitute regular sugar with erythritol, use coconut flour, and incorporate sugar-free chocolate chips to make low-carb friendly version that maintains decadent chocolate essence.
• Nut-Free Peppermint Option: Replace almond flour with oat flour or rice flour, ensuring safe alternative for individuals with nut allergies while preserving original recipe's delicious profile.

FAQs

• What gives these brownies their peppermint flavor?

Peppermint extract is the key ingredient that provides the cool, refreshing mint taste throughout the brownie batter, creating a delightful holiday-inspired dessert.

• Can I make these brownies without peppermint extract?

While the peppermint extract is crucial for the signature flavor, you could substitute with peppermint schnapps or use a small amount of mint essential oil designed for baking if you have those on hand.

• How do the marshmallows enhance the brownie?

The marshmallows add a soft, gooey topping that caramelizes slightly when broiled, creating a delicious contrast to the rich chocolate base and providing a toasty, golden-brown finish to the brownies.

• Are these brownies good for holiday gatherings?

Absolutely! The combination of chocolate, peppermint, and marshmallows makes these brownies a festive treat that’s perfect for Christmas parties, winter celebrations, or any special occasion.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies Recipe

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4.8 from 37 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Creamy peppermint hot chocolate brownies blend rich chocolate and cool mint in a delightful winter dessert. Chocolate lovers will savor these indulgent squares that promise a festive celebration of seasonal comfort and sweet sophistication.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar (packed)

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• ½ cup chocolate chips
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder

Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
• ¼ cup crushed peppermint candies

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease.
2. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a medium mixing bowl, ensuring even distribution of dry ingredients.
3. In a separate large bowl, thoroughly blend melted butter with granulated and brown sugars until smooth and integrated.
4. Incorporate eggs individually, whisking vigorously after each addition to create a uniform mixture.
5. Infuse the batter with peppermint extract, stirring to distribute the flavor evenly.
6. Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined without overmixing.
7. If using, carefully fold chocolate chips into the batter to ensure even distribution.
8. Transfer the brownie mixture to the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula for uniform thickness.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick that should emerge with minimal moist crumbs.
10. Immediately after removing from the oven, sprinkle mini marshmallows across the entire surface.
11. Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes, allowing marshmallows to puff and develop a golden-brown color.
12. Allow brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes to set properly.
13. Optionally, garnish with crushed peppermint candies for a festive and crunchy topping.
14. Slice into squares and serve, enjoying the rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint combination.

Notes

• Gently fold chocolate chips into the batter to prevent overmixing, which can make brownies tough and dense.
• Use room temperature eggs for smoother batter integration and more consistent brownie texture.
• Allow brownies to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, precise edges and prevent crumbling.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 21 g
• Sodium: 80 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg