Peppermint Brownie Bites

Sharing is caring!

Indulging in the sweet, rich world of brownies is a cozy experience that can evoke nostalgia and warmth during the chilly holiday season. If you’re on the hunt for a delightful treat that combines the fudgy goodness of brownies with the festive spirit of peppermint, look no further! These Peppermint Brownie Bites are not only easy to make but also add a beautiful touch to your holiday dessert table. With the combination of a simple brownie mix and the delightful crunch of Candy Cane Hershey Kisses, this recipe is a must-try for chocolate and mint lovers alike.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

What makes these Peppermint Brownie Bites such a hit? First, they are quick to prepare, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or holiday parties. The combination of chewy brownie texture and the refreshing taste of peppermint creates a flavor experience that feels both indulgent and festive. Plus, they are easy to customize and share, allowing you to spread holiday cheer with friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will yield delicious results every time!

Ingredients

• 1 (18.25 oz) box of brownie mix
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 large eggs
• 24 unwrapped Candy Cane Hershey Kisses
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract for extra flavor
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

How To Make Peppermint Brownie Bites

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies bake evenly and develop a deliciously fudgy texture.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners, or spray with non-stick cooking spray. This step is crucial to prevent the brownies from sticking and makes cleanup much easier.

Step 3: Make the Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, vegetable oil, water, and eggs. If you’re using peppermint extract, add it here as well. Stir the mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick and fudgy.

Step 4: Fill the Muffin Tin

Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with the brownie batter. This allows enough space for the brownies to rise and puff up while baking.

Step 5: Bake the Brownies

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centers comes out with a few moist crumbs. Keep a close eye on them, as baking time can vary depending on your oven.

Step 6: Add the Candy Cane Kisses

Once the brownies are baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven. Immediately press a Candy Cane Hershey Kiss into the center of each brownie bite. The heat from the brownies will soften the kisses, creating a lovely melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

Allow the brownie bites to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finish!

Expert Tips

• For extra decadence, consider swirling in a bit of melted chocolate into the brownie batter before baking.
• Adjust the amount of peppermint extract according to your taste. A little goes a long way!
• If you like a deeper chocolate flavor, try using dark chocolate brownie mix.
• Always check for doneness a minute or two before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.

Variations and Customizations

• Add crushed peppermint candies or chocolate chips to the brownie batter for added texture.
• Swap out the Candy Cane Kisses for other flavored kisses, such as caramel or milk chocolate, to change things up.
• Drizzle melted chocolate or white chocolate over the top of the brownie bites for a beautiful presentation.
• For a nutty twist, fold in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking.

How to Store Leftovers

If you manage to have any leftover Peppermint Brownie Bites (we doubt it!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for about a week. If you want to keep them even longer, consider freezing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. They will retain their deliciousness for up to three months!

FAQ

Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a box mix?

Absolutely! You can use your favorite homemade brownie recipe instead of a boxed mix. Just ensure that the batter yields a similar consistency for perfect brownie bites.

Can I make these Peppermint Brownie Bites gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the regular brownie mix with a gluten-free brownie mix. Just double-check the ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

What can I substitute for Candy Cane Hershey Kisses?

If you can’t find Candy Cane Kisses, you can use regular Hershey Kisses, chocolate chips, or even a piece of peppermint bark as a substitute.

Can I add frosting to these brownie bites?

While these brownie bites are delicious on their own, you can certainly top them with a light layer of cream cheese frosting or ganache for an extra touch of sweetness.

Conclusion

In just a few simple steps, you can create these delightful Peppermint Brownie Bites that are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or as a sweet gift for friends and family. Their rich and fudgy texture paired with the refreshing hint of peppermint will have everyone asking for the recipe! So go ahead, grab your baking supplies, and enjoy a festive treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Happy baking!