Chocolate Peppermint Bark Brownies

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Brownies are your ultimate festive treat that combines the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the refreshing zing of peppermint and the crunch of crushed candy. This recipe is perfect for cozy winter nights, holiday gatherings, or whenever you crave a sweet and minty indulgence. The burst of peppermint flavor in every bite perfectly complements the deep chocolate base, making these brownies a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

These Chocolate Peppermint Bark Brownies stand out because they strike the perfect balance between dense, chocolaty goodness and a cool, minty finish. Unlike ordinary brownies, the addition of peppermint extract and crushed peppermint candies adds a refreshing twist that awakens your palate. Plus, the semi-sweet chocolate chips scattered throughout melt into irresistible pockets of gooey delight. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a casual treat, these brownies are simple to make yet impressive enough to share. They store beautifully, reheat well, and are always met with rave reviews. Once you try these, they’re bound to become a recipe you reach for year after year.

Ingredient Breakdown

• 1 cup unsalted butter – Provides richness and moisture to the brownies, creating a tender crumb and deep flavor.
• 2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the batter and helps achieve a crackly top layer.
• 4 large eggs – Bind ingredients together and contribute to the fudgy texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the chocolate flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the brownies without making them cakey.
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Delivers intense chocolate flavor and a dark, rich color.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and intensifies the chocolate taste.
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – Adds pockets of melty chocolate for extra indulgence.
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract – Infuses the batter with a refreshing minty aroma and flavor.
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies – Sprinkled on top to add a festive crunch and dazzling appearance.

Essential Tools for Success

• 9×13 inch baking pan: Perfect size for even baking and easy slicing.
• Mixing bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients separately.
• Whisk and spatula: To thoroughly mix ingredients without overworking the batter.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy for consistent results.
• Cooling rack: Allows the brownies to cool evenly and prevents sogginess.
• Oven mitts: Essential for safely handling hot pans.

Stepwise Method: Chocolate Peppermint Bark Brownies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This step ensures your brownies don’t stick and come out cleanly.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Mix Sugar

In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar until well combined. This helps dissolve the sugar slightly for a fudgy texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavors

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and peppermint extract to infuse the batter with warm and minty notes.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.

Step 5: Stir in Chocolate Chips

Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter for luscious chocolate pockets.

Step 6: Bake and Add Peppermint

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Immediately after removing from the oven, sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies evenly across the top, gently pressing them into the warm brownies.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack before cutting into squares. This resting time lets the flavors meld and the peppermint candies harden to a delightful crunch.

Substitutions by Category

• Butter: Use coconut oil or a plant-based margarine for a dairy-free alternative.
• Sugar: Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar or brown sugar to add a subtle caramel note.
• Flour: Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for gluten sensitivity.
• Chocolate Chips: Use dark chocolate chunks or dairy-free chocolate chips for variation.
• Peppermint Extract: A few drops of peppermint oil can be used carefully, but start with less due to its potency.
• Peppermint Candies: Crushed candy canes or peppermint-flavored hard candies work beautifully.

What Could Go Wrong

• Brownies turning cakey: Overmixing the batter can incorporate too much air. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
• Underbaked centers: Make sure to test with a toothpick near the end of baking. The toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
• Peppermint candies melting completely: Add the crushed peppermint immediately after baking so they set without melting fully into the batter.
• Flavor balance: Using too much peppermint extract can overpower the chocolate. Stick to the recommended amount or adjust carefully.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store your Chocolate Peppermint Bark Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy warm brownies, microwave individual pieces for 10-15 seconds or reheat in a low-temperature oven until warmed through. This brings back that gooey, melty chocolate experience.

Ask & Learn

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate chips will make your brownies sweeter and creamier. Just keep in mind that the overall chocolate intensity will be milder compared to semi-sweet chips.

How do I prevent the peppermint candies from making the brownies soggy?

Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies on top immediately after baking while the brownies are hot. As they cool, the candies will harden, creating a nice crunchy texture without sogginess.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, you can double all ingredients and bake in a larger pan or two 9×13 inch pans. Just keep an eye on the baking time—start checking for doneness around 30 minutes.

What’s the best way to achieve fudgy brownies?

Use a combination of melted butter and sugar, avoid overmixing, and don’t overbake. Removing the brownies when a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs ensures that fudgy center.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

• Chocolate Pecan Brownie Pie – Another decadent chocolate treat with a nutty twist.
• Chocolate Almond Toffee Bark – A crunchy, sweet bark perfect for gifting and snacking.

Bring It Home

These Chocolate Peppermint Bark Brownies are the perfect way to celebrate the season or simply treat yourself to a chocolatey, minty delight. Easy to make and impossible to resist, they’ll quickly become your go-to recipe whenever you want a festive, flavorful dessert. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them with a cozy cup of tea, these brownies deliver that perfect blend of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint. So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to bake a batch of brownies that everyone will be talking about!

Share on Pinterest