Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe
Introduction
Peppermint Bark Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate with a refreshing minty twist. Topped with a creamy white chocolate peppermint frosting and crunchy candy cane bits, they make a perfect festive treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 1 batch brownie batter
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips, melted and cooled slightly
- Pinch kosher salt
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9″x13″ baking pan with parchment paper and grease it lightly with cooking spray. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened butter, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract until the mixture is light and airy. Add the melted white chocolate chips and a pinch of kosher salt, then continue beating until the frosting is smooth.
- Step 3: Spread the peppermint white chocolate frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top to finish. Allow the frosting to set before slicing and serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use quality white chocolate chips for a smoother, creamier frosting.
- For extra crunch, try toasting the crushed candy canes lightly before sprinkling them on top.
- You can substitute peppermint extract with vanilla extract if you prefer a milder flavor.
Storage
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. Let refrigerated brownies come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a boxed brownie mix?
Yes, a good quality boxed brownie mix works well for this recipe. Just prepare the batter according to the package instructions before adding the peppermint frosting and candy cane topping.
How do I prevent the white chocolate from clumping in the frosting?
Make sure the melted white chocolate has cooled slightly before mixing it into the butter and sugar mixture. This helps prevent it from melting the butter and creating clumps.
PrintPeppermint Bark Brownies Recipe
Indulge in the festive and delicious Peppermint Bark Brownies, featuring a rich and fudgy brownie base topped with a creamy peppermint-infused white chocolate frosting and sprinkled with crunchy crushed candy canes. Perfect for holiday celebrations or any time you crave a minty chocolate treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- Cooking spray, for greasing
- 1 batch brownie batter (prepared from your favorite recipe or mix)
Peppermint White Chocolate Frosting
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips, melted and cooled slightly
- Pinch kosher salt
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9-inch by 13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and grease it lightly with cooking spray. Pour the prepared brownie batter evenly into the pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Once done, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan.
- Make the Peppermint Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened butter, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract together until the mixture is light and airy. Gradually add the melted and slightly cooled white chocolate chips along with a pinch of kosher salt, and continue beating until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble and Serve: Spread the peppermint white chocolate frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes generously over the top to add a festive crunch and peppermint flavor. Let the frosting set slightly before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
- Ensure the white chocolate chips are melted but only slightly cooled so they incorporate smoothly into the frosting without hardening.
- Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of your frosting balance.
- You can prepare the brownie batter from scratch or use a high-quality boxed mix to save time.
- Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a stronger peppermint flavor, add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract, but be cautious as it can become overpowering.
Keywords: Peppermint bark brownies, holiday brownies, peppermint chocolate dessert, festive brownies, white chocolate peppermint
