Festive Peppermint Brownies Everyone Will Love

Name: Festive Peppermint Brownies Everyone Will Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup salted butter (melted); ¾ + 1 tablespoon light brown sugar; 2 large eggs (at room temperature); ¾ tsp peppermint extract; ¾ cup all-purpose flour; ¾ cup cocoa powder; ¾ tsp espresso powder (optional); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; ½ tsp baking powder; ½ cup chocolate chips or chunks; ¼ cup salted butter (melted, for frosting); ½ cup cocoa powder (for frosting); 2 ⅓ cups powdered sugar (sifted); 2-3 tablespoons whole milk; Crushed peppermint candy (for decoration)

by Peter Harper

Published on: November 28, 2025

Delicious festive peppermint brownies topped with chocolate and crushed candies

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Festive Peppermint Brownies Everyone Will Love are a deliciously fudgy indulgence that capture the essence of the holiday season. With their glossy chocolate surface and a fresh burst of peppermint, these brownies create a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen with cozy vibes. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as an everyday treat, they are both easy to make and uniquely festive, making them a go-to dessert that everyone will appreciate.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of Festive Peppermint Brownies Everyone Will Love. They make the perfect snack for holiday parties, satisfying sweet cravings during cozy nights in, or even as a delightful gift to share with friends and family. The simplistic nature of this recipe using common pantry staples makes it incredibly convenient, while the rich, chocolatey flavor enhanced by peppermint ensures it stands out in any dessert spread. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, these brownies are bound to impress.

Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight

In this festive season, the star ingredient is undeniably fresh peppermint. Its vibrant green color not only brightens up the dish but also offers an invigorating aroma that’s synonymous with winter. Paired with rich cocoa powder and creamy butter, these ingredients blend beautifully to create a symphony of flavors and textures. The mixture produces a deep chocolate hue complemented by the festive sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies, elevating both the visual appeal and taste. Choosing seasonal ingredients not only enhances sustainability but ensures every bite is fresh and delightful!

What You’ll Need

½ cup salted butter (melted)
¾ + 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
2 large eggs (at room temperature, helps with blending)
¾ tsp peppermint extract
¾ cup all-purpose flour
¾ cup cocoa powder (look for high-quality for rich flavors)
¾ tsp espresso powder (optional, enhances chocolate taste)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
½ tsp baking powder
½ cup chocolate chips or chunks (for melty pockets of goodness)
¼ cup salted butter (melted, for frosting)
½ cup cocoa powder (for frosting)
2 ⅓ cups powdered sugar (sifted, ensures a smooth frosting)
2-3 tablespoons whole milk (to achieve desired frosting consistency)
Crushed peppermint candy (for decoration, adds crunch and color)

Feel free to substitute items like plant-based butter or gluten-free flour to suit dietary preferences. The richness of the brownies comes from the cocoa powder, while the chocolate chips will provide additional texture, making each bite special.

How to Make This Recipe

1. Prepare the Oven & Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C) and lining an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Lightly buttering the sides will help the brownies lift out cleanly, ensuring perfect edges.

2. Melt the Butter
Melt the ½ cup salted butter until it’s smooth and glossy. Stir in the light brown sugar until it becomes soft and shiny—this step will fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma that screams comfort!

3. Add the Eggs & Peppermint
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing gently. Then, add the peppermint extract. The fresh peppermint smell will surely evoke festive feelings.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, cornstarch, and baking powder. Carefully fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, ensuring no flour streaks remain.

5. Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in ½ cup chocolate chips or chunks, saving a few to sprinkle on top later. These tasty pockets of chocolate make each bite indulgent.

6. Pour into the Pan
Spoon the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the surface for an even bake. Bake for about 30 minutes, ensuring you check around the 28-minute mark. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.

7. Cool and Frost
Let your brownies cool entirely in the pan before frosting. For the frosting, mix together the melted butter, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and milk until creamy. Spread it gently over the cooled brownies.

8. Garnish
Finish with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy, adding a pop of color and delightful crunch. Enjoy your festive treat!

Essential Tools

Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Rubber spatula
8-inch square baking pan
Parchment paper
Toothpick (for testing)

These basic tools will ensure a smooth baking experience, but if you have a stand mixer, it may make the mixing process even easier!

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

These brownies not only taste great fresh but can also be made ahead of time. Make them a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Perfect Pairings

Pair your brownies with a hot cup of cocoa topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. For an adult twist, consider a mint-flavored coffee or a nice red wine, complementing the rich chocolate flavors. Serve on a festive plate with some holiday decorations for a beautiful presentation!

Nutrition Facts

Calories: ~180 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 14 g

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Dough Too Dry: If the brownie mixture appears dry, add a splash of milk until it reaches a pliable consistency.
Chocolate Coating Breaks: Ensure the melted chocolate is smooth and warm for easy spreading.
Unevenly Shaped Pieces: Use a cookie scoop or knife for even portions when cutting brownies.

Pro Tips for Best Results

To enhance the depth of flavor, use a high-quality cocoa powder, and always check for doneness a couple of minutes earlier than suggested, as ovens vary. Letting your brownies cool completely before frosting allows for better absorption of flavors. For prettiness, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean slices.

Recipe Variations to Explore

Nutty Bliss: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
Chocolate Mint Swirl: Incorporate mint chocolate chips for an extra mint kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
Vegan Alternative: Use flax eggs and dairy-free butter for a completely vegan treat.

Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info

For those with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free flour or dairy-free substitutes. Always check labels for allergens, especially if serving to someone with specific dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes! They can be made a day or two in advance and stored appropriately.

2. How do I store leftover brownies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for later use.

3. Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans work great and add extra texture.

4. What’s the best way to cut brownies?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts.

5. How can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Simply swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for similar results.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Now that you’re equipped to create these irresistible Festive Peppermint Brownies, gather your ingredients and get baking! Don’t forget to share your results with friends and family or tag us in your holiday dessert creations! For more delightful recipes, check out our desserts page!