Festive Peppermint Fudge Brownies: A Holiday Treat to Love

The Memory Behind This Treat

The story of these Festive Peppermint Fudge Brownies starts on a chilly December evening in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. The air was filled with the smell of pine from the freshly cut Christmas tree in the corner, while the sounds of Bing Crosby’s holiday classics played softly in the background. I remember sitting at the counter, eagerly watching her transform basic pantry staples into holiday magic. The moment she added the peppermint extract, the kitchen filled with a minty freshness that mingled perfectly with the rich aroma of chocolate.

Every year, this tradition became a cornerstone of our holiday celebrations. I’d help crush the candy canes—my favorite part—using a rolling pin like a miniature hammer. The candy shards, with their red and white stripes, would dance like confetti over the freshly drizzled white chocolate. It was a messy process, with bits of candy sticking to everything, but worth every sticky finger. These brownies were more than just dessert; they were a canvas for creativity and laughter, a sweet reminder of the joy of the season.

Fast forward to today, and these Festive Peppermint Fudge Brownies remain a beloved part of my holiday repertoire. They’ve become a festive staple in my own home, bringing the same cheer and warmth to my children as they did for me. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a cozy treat, these brownies are sure to bring a taste of nostalgia and a sprinkle of holiday magic to your table. If you’re looking for another comforting dessert, you might enjoy my Chocolate Swirl Banana Bread or Homemade Gingerbread Cupcakes to keep the festive spirit alive.

How To Make It (Mix & Ingredients)

Creating these Festive Peppermint Fudge Brownies is a breeze, and the reward is a tray of delicious holiday cheer. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan—this ensures your brownies release cleanly, like a dream. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of melted unsalted butter with 2 cups of granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. This is your base, and it forms the rich, fudgy texture we all love.

Next, incorporate 4 large eggs, one at a time, into the butter-sugar mix. Each egg should be fully mixed in before the next. Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract along with 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract for that festive twist. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined—overmixing is a no-go here, as it can make the brownies tough.

Now, fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a delightful chocolatey boost. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, watching closely until a toothpick emerges with moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely before the fun part: decorating! Melt 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled brownies. Quickly sprinkle crushed candy canes and red and green sprinkles before the chocolate sets. Voilà! You’ve just made a batch of Festive Peppermint Fudge Brownies ready to impress at your next holiday gathering.

Make-Ahead & Storage

When the holiday hustle is in full swing, having these Festive Peppermint Fudge Brownies ready to go can be a lifesaver. Luckily, these delightful treats are perfect for making ahead. Simply bake the brownies as directed, but hold off on the decorating. Once cooled, wrap the unadorned brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to preserve their fresh, fudgy texture. You can store them in the freezer for up to a month. When you’re ready to dazzle your guests, let them thaw at room temperature, then proceed with the white chocolate drizzle and festive toppings.

If you’re just planning to have these brownies on hand for a few days, store the decorated brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days. For an added layer of protection, consider placing a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Remember, freshness is key to maintaining that rich, fudgy bite we all love. If you find yourself with leftovers (a rarity, I assure you), these brownies can also be warmed slightly in the microwave, just enough to revive their chocolatey goodness without melting the decorations. With these tips, your Festive Peppermint Fudge Brownies will be a crowd-pleaser no matter when you serve them. For more holiday baking ideas, you might enjoy our recipe for Gingerbread Cookies or Cranberry Orange Loaf.

Also Read: Chocolate Pumpkin Swirl Brownies: A Festive Fall Delight

Best Ingredients & Party Variations

When crafting these Festive Peppermint Fudge Brownies, the choice of ingredients truly makes a difference. Start with unsalted butter for a rich and smooth base. It’s essential to use high-quality cocoa powder—look for one with a deep chocolate aroma. The peppermint extract is the star here, providing that delightful holiday twist. If you’re a mint enthusiast, consider using up to 1 teaspoon for an extra burst of freshness. Don’t forget the crushed candy canes and red and green sprinkles; they add not only crunch and color but also a whimsical festive flair.

Now, let’s sprinkle in some variation magic! For a nutty twist, try adding a handful of crushed nuts like almonds or pecans into the batter. If you’re feeling adventurous, swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor. Hosting a holiday party? Double the recipe and bake in two pans to ensure there’s plenty to go around. You can also create a peppermint swirl by gently mixing melted white chocolate with a drop of food coloring before drizzling—guaranteed to impress your guests.

These brownies are a hit on any dessert table, shining alongside other treats like Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a variation, these brownies are sure to bring joy to your festivities.

FAQ’s About Festive Peppermint Fudge Brownies

Conclusion

Baking these Festive Peppermint Fudge Brownies is like wrapping a cozy holiday hug in chocolate and mint. As the scent of peppermint fills your kitchen, you’re not just creating a dessert—you’re crafting memories. Whether you’re sharing them with family around a crackling fire or indulging in a quiet moment with a steaming cup of cocoa, these brownies have a way of bringing people together.

I hope this recipe adds a touch of magic to your holiday celebrations. It’s designed to be simple yet impressive, so don’t hesitate to jump in and give it a try. Imagine the smiles as you serve up these delightful squares, each bite a testament to the joy of homemade goodness.

If you loved this recipe, there’s plenty more where that came from! Follow us on social media for more heartwarming desserts and nostalgic treats. Happy baking!

Print