If you are craving a dessert that perfectly captures the spirit of the holidays while delivering rich chocolatey goodness with a refreshing twist, this Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine fudgy, moist brownies topped with a dreamy white chocolate peppermint frosting and finished off with a festive crunch of crushed candy canes. This recipe blends classic brownie comfort with that unmistakable peppermint bark flair, creating a treat that’s as delightful to eat as it is to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet all play a crucial role in making the Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe a truly special dessert. From the fudgy brownie base to the peppermint-infused frosting and the crunchy candy cane topping, every component adds layers of flavor and texture.
- Box brownie mix: A convenient base that ensures your brownies are dense, moist, and perfectly chocolaty every time.
- Eggs, oil, and water: Essential for combining with the brownie mix to create the batter’s smooth and tender crumb.
- White chocolate chips (1½ cups, melted and cooled): These bring a creamy sweetness and melt seamlessly into the peppermint frosting.
- Butter (1 cup, softened): Adds richness and a velvety texture to the frosting.
- Powdered sugar (1½ cups): Sweetens the frosting and helps it achieve the perfect consistency.
- Peppermint extract (½ teaspoon): Infuses the frosting with that crisp, cool peppermint flavor that defines this recipe.
- Crushed candy canes (½ cup): Provides an irresistible festive crunch and a splash of color on top.
How to Make Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Brownies
Start by mixing your box brownie mix with eggs, oil, and water according to the package instructions, stirring until everything is well combined. Pour the luscious batter into a parchment-lined baking dish to prevent sticking and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center reveals a few moist crumbs—this ensures your brownies remain perfectly fudgy. After baking, let them cool completely on a wire rack to get ready for the frosting layer.
Step 2: Whip the Butter
Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter on medium-high speed until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is essential to create a smooth frosting base that’s creamy and full of body, ensuring it spreads beautifully over your brownies.
Step 3: Mix the Frosting
To your whipped butter, add the powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and the melted white chocolate that’s been cooled to avoid melting the butter. Mix everything thoroughly until you achieve a silky, spreadable frosting that’s bursting with minty-sweet flavors and a hint of white chocolate richness.
Step 4: Frost and Top the Brownies
Grab a rubber spatula and spread your peppermint frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Then generously sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top. This layer adds a delightful texture and a pop of festive color. Once decorated, use a sharp knife to cut your brownies into squares and get ready to enjoy every bite.
How to Serve Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
While the crushed candy canes are the star festive garnish, you can elevate presentation by adding a few whole candy canes around the plate or a dusting of cocoa powder for a subtle chocolate accent. Fresh peppermint leaves can also add a touch of freshness and a pop of green, making these brownies look even more inviting.
Side Dishes
These brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, which balances their rich texture and peppermint flair. For a warm contrast, a mug of hot chocolate or peppermint mocha brings out their flavors and makes for a cozy, indulgent dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving these brownies in mini paper cupcake liners or on a holiday-themed platter to make them perfect for parties or gift-giving. You can also cut them into festive shapes using cookie cutters for a playful twist that kids and adults will love. Wrapping individual pieces in clear cellophane with a ribbon transforms them into charming edible gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the brownies moist and the peppermint frosting fresh and flavorful. If your kitchen is warm, storing them in the refrigerator can help preserve the frosting, though allow the brownies to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezing
To enjoy these treats later, freeze the brownies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to two months. You can cut them into squares before freezing for easy portioning. Thaw frozen brownies overnight in the refrigerator to maintain their perfect texture and flavor.
Reheating
If you prefer your brownies slightly warm, gently reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 10 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, especially due to the peppermint frosting, which can soften too much. Enjoy warm with a glass of cold milk for a comforting treat.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownies instead of a box mix for this Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe?
Absolutely! Using your favorite homemade brownie recipe can add an extra special touch. Just be sure your brownies are fully cooled before frosting as directed.
Is there a substitute for peppermint extract if I don’t have any on hand?
You can use a few drops of peppermint oil or even a splash of vanilla extract for a milder flavor, but peppermint extract really gives this recipe its signature taste.
Can I make these brownies vegan or dairy-free?
With some tweaks, such as using dairy-free butter and white chocolate chips, plus a vegan brownie mix, this recipe can be adapted to fit vegan or dairy-free diets while keeping the delicious peppermint charm.
How do I get the crushed candy canes to stick to the frosting?
Sprinkle the crushed candy canes immediately after spreading the frosting while it’s still soft. This way, they’ll adhere nicely and add a beautiful crunch to every bite.
What’s the best way to cut these brownies without messing up the frosting?
Use a sharp knife, and for very clean cuts, warm the knife by dipping it in hot water, then dry it before slicing. Wipe the knife between cuts to keep edges neat.
Final Thoughts
Giving the Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe a try will fill your kitchen with the inviting aromas of chocolate and mint, and your heart with the joy of sharing a wonderful, festive treat. Whether you’re making them for a holiday party or just because you want a little magic in your dessert, these brownies are sure to become a favorite that everyone asks for year after year. So go ahead and bake up a batch — the smiles and sighs of delight will be well worth it!
Print
Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these festive Peppermint Bark Brownies featuring rich, fudgy brownie base topped with a creamy peppermint white chocolate frosting and sprinkled with crushed candy canes for a perfect holiday treat.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 box brownie mix (including required ingredients such as eggs, oil, and water as per box instructions)
Peppermint Frosting
- 1½ cups white chocolate chips (melted and cooled)
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ tsp peppermint extract
- ½ cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownies: In a large bowl, combine the brownie mix with the eggs, oil, and water according to the box instructions. Pour the batter into a baking dish lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Make the Peppermint Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat softened butter with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until fluffy.
- Add Flavor and Chocolate: Add powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and melted white chocolate chips to the butter. Mix thoroughly until the frosting is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Brownies: Spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the cooled brownies using a rubber spatula. Sprinkle crushed candy canes evenly over the frosting. Slice into 16 squares and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the melted white chocolate is cooled before adding to the butter to prevent melting it too much.
- Let the brownies cool fully before frosting to avoid melting or sliding of the frosting layer.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean edges when slicing the brownies.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for extended freshness.
