Easy Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe
There is something truly magical about Easy Peppermint Bark Brownies that makes them a must-bake for any chocolate and mint lover. These brownies strike the perfect balance between rich, fudgy chocolate and the refreshing coolness of peppermint bark swirled throughout. Whether you are baking for a festive holiday party or simply craving a cozy treat on a chilly evening, this recipe delivers that nostalgic flavor combination in a delightfully simple way. Trust me, once you try these Easy Peppermint Bark Brownies, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again for a quick slice of chocolate-mint heaven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about the beautifully simple ingredients that come together in these brownies. Each one plays an essential role, whether it’s creating that dense texture, layering in flavor, or decorating with festive flair.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Provides a rich, creamy base that melts into the batter for fudgy goodness.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Adds just the right sweetness and balances the cocoa’s bitterness.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Introduces moisture and a subtle caramel note that deepens the flavor.
- Large eggs (3): Bind everything together and add structure so your brownies hold their shape.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): The sturdy backbone that keeps these brownies dense but not cakey.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/3 cup): Delivers that intense chocolate flavor, crucial for rich brownies.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances all the chocolate and peppermint flavors by balancing sweetness.
- Peppermint extract (1 tsp): The star flavor that brings refreshing minty notes in every bite.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Scatter throughout for melty pockets of chocolate heaven.
- Crushed peppermint bark pieces (1/2 cup): The festive topping that adds crunch and a peppermint punch.
How to Make Easy Peppermint Bark Brownies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Getting started is a breeze! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan to ensure your brownies come out clean and easy to slice. A non-stick spray or lining with parchment paper works beautifully here.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Mix Sugars
In a saucepan over low heat, gently melt the unsalted butter until just liquid. Remove it from heat and stir in the granulated and brown sugars until everything is fully combined. This step is key to creating a smooth, sweet foundation for the brownies.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Peppermint
Allow the butter and sugar mixture to cool slightly so you don’t scramble the eggs. Whisk the eggs one at a time into the mixture, making sure each is fully blended before adding the next. Then, stir in the peppermint extract to infuse the batter with that unmistakable mint aroma.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Sifting helps eliminate lumps for a smooth batter. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined to keep the brownies tender.
Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips
Now for the melty bites! Gently fold the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter. These little bursts of chocolate melt during baking and create wonderful, gooey pockets throughout your brownies.
Step 6: Bake and Top
Pour the brownie batter evenly into your prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You want a toothpick inserted near the center to come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. Let the brownies cool completely before sprinkling the crushed peppermint bark pieces on top. This finishing touch adds crunch, color, and that iconic mint chocolate flavor.
How to Serve Easy Peppermint Bark Brownies
Garnishes
To amp up the festive feel, dust your brownies with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzle with melted white chocolate. Adding a few whole peppermint bark pieces or fresh mint leaves can also make them look irresistible on any dessert table.
Side Dishes
These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, turning each bite into a decadent mini dessert. For something warm, a mug of hot cocoa or peppermint tea complements the mint-chocolate combination beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Easy Peppermint Bark Brownies as festive bars on a rustic wooden board or stack them in a glass jar as a charming holiday gift. You can also cut them into small bite-size squares and arrange on skewers with marshmallows and candy canes for a playful peppermint dessert kabob.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover brownies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay moist and delicious for up to 4 days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy holiday weeks.
Freezing
If you want to save these for a later day, freeze your Easy Peppermint Bark Brownies by wrapping individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for about 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy warm brownies like they just came out of the oven, microwave individual pieces for about 10 to 15 seconds. This helps revive the gooey chocolate chips hotspot and freshens up the peppermint aroma.
FAQs
Can I use peppermint oil instead of peppermint extract?
While peppermint oil is much stronger, you can use it but be very sparing. Start with a few drops and adjust carefully since it can easily overpower the dish. Peppermint extract offers a milder, more balanced flavor perfect for these brownies.
What if I don’t have peppermint bark? Can I use candy canes?
Absolutely! Crushing candy canes works wonderfully as a substitute for peppermint bark. It adds the same minty crunch and festive look—just use about 1/2 cup of crushed pieces as the topping.
How fudgy are these Easy Peppermint Bark Brownies?
They are decadently fudgy with a moist, dense texture thanks to the butter and sugar ratio. The melted chocolate chips throughout add extra pockets of melty richness that make them so satisfying.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend of equal measure. Just make sure your cocoa powder and other ingredients do not contain gluten to keep the brownies safe and tasty.
Is it possible to halve the recipe?
Definitely! These Easy Peppermint Bark Brownies scale well. Just halve all ingredients and use a smaller baking dish for a quicker batch perfect for smaller gatherings or testing out the recipe first.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a delicious, fuss-free way to bring joy to your dessert table, you simply must try these Easy Peppermint Bark Brownies. They combine classic chocolate brownie comfort with refreshing peppermint sparkle in a way that feels both festive and timeless. I promise baking this recipe will fill your kitchen with warm, lovely aromas and your friends and family with pure delight. Go ahead and make them your new favorite holiday treat — you won’t regret it!
