Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies

If you love the cozy warmth of hot chocolate and the refreshing zing of peppermint, then these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies are about to become your new favorite treat. Imagine biting into rich, fudgy brownies with a deep chocolate flavor, enhanced by a hint of peppermint and studded with melty chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies. These brownies are the perfect holiday dessert or a delightful pick-me-up on any chilly day. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special and how you can whip up a batch in no time.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

Unlike your usual brownie recipes, these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies deliver the nostalgic taste of peppermint hot chocolate in a portable, indulgent form. The addition of crushed peppermint candies adds a delightful crunch with every bite, while the semisweet chocolate chips offer pockets of gooey sweetness. The use of cocoa powder rather than melted chocolate keeps the batter light yet intensely chocolatey, and the combination of baking powder and salt ensures just the right texture — fudgy but not too dense. Plus, the peppermint flavor is subtle enough to complement the chocolate without overpowering it, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Shopping List

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• 8×8-inch baking pan – for perfectly sized brownies
• Mixing bowls – one large for the batter, one small for dry ingredients
• Whisk or electric mixer – to blend the ingredients smoothly
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts
• Spatula – to fold in chocolate chips and peppermint candies
• Parchment paper or non-stick spray – to line or grease the pan
• Cooling rack – to let the brownies cool evenly

Mastering Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies: How-To

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it using butter or non-stick spray. This step ensures your brownies come out cleanly and keeps the edges from sticking.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, which will enhance the overall flavor.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

In a separate bowl, sift together the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Sifting prevents lumps and helps your brownies bake evenly.

Step 4: Blend Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your brownies tender. The batter will be thick and fudgy, exactly how it should be.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Peppermint Candies

Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips and 3/4 of the crushed peppermint candies, reserving some for sprinkling on top. This layering adds texture and bursts of flavor in every bite.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining crushed peppermint candies evenly over the surface for a festive look. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack before cutting. This resting time helps them set and makes slicing easier. Serve them as is, or warm them slightly for that melty chocolate experience reminiscent of your favorite hot chocolate.

If You’re Out Of…

• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Use Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a smoother, less acidic taste.
• Semisweet chocolate chips: Substitute with dairy-free chocolate chips or chopped chocolate chunks.
• Crushed peppermint candies: Use peppermint extract (start with 1/4 teaspoon) for flavor, and add chopped candy canes for texture.
• Unsalted butter: You can swap with an equal amount of vegetable oil or melted coconut oil for a dairy-free twist.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

• Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the brownies; overbaking can lead to dry, crumbly texture instead of fudgy perfection.
• Overmixing the batter: Stir just until ingredients are combined to avoid tough brownies.
• Skipping the parchment paper: This can cause your brownies to stick to the pan, making them difficult to remove.
• Not crushing the peppermint candies: Whole pieces can be too hard and unpleasant to bite; crushing ensures even distribution and a better mouthfeel.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Store your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the brownies in a sealed container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying. Rewarming in the microwave for 10-15 seconds can bring back that just-baked warmth.

Quick Questions

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Be sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain texture.

How can I make these brownies more fudgy?

To increase fudginess, reduce the flour slightly and consider adding an extra egg yolk. Using melted butter and avoiding overbaking also helps keep brownies moist.

Can I use peppermint extract instead of crushed candies?

Definitely. Add about 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter for flavor. You might want to add chopped candy canes on top for texture and presentation.

What’s the best way to cut brownies without them crumbling?

Let the brownies cool completely, then use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This technique gives you clean edges without crumbling.

Desserts to Finish

• Spiced Hot Chocolate Cheesecake – A creamy and festive way to indulge your chocolate cravings.
• Chocolate Hazelnut Swirl Zucchini Muffin Tops – A nutty, chocolaty treat with a sneaky veggie twist.
• Flourless Chocolate Chip Cookies – Gluten-free and irresistibly soft cookies packed with chocolate chips.

See You at the Table

These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies are more than just a dessert – they’re a celebration of flavors and textures that bring joy to every bite. Whether you’re sharing them with family, gifting them to friends, or savoring them all by yourself with a cozy mug of tea or coffee, these brownies promise to brighten your day. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and create a batch that’s sure to become a seasonal favorite. Enjoy every fudgy, minty, chocolatey moment!

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