Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, melt the butter and mix in sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
In another bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Stir in chocolate chips and half of the crushed peppermint candies.
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the brownies are baking, melt the white chocolate chips in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
Once brownies are done, remove them from the oven and immediately drizzle the melted white chocolate over the top.
Sprinkle remaining crushed peppermint candies on top of the white chocolate.
Allow brownies to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Bark Brownies
Peppermint Bark Brownies are great for many reasons. These treats combine the rich, fudgy flavor of classic brownies with the festive twist of peppermint. The softness of the brownie pairs wonderfully with the cool crunch of crushed peppermint. The creamy white chocolate on top adds an extra layer of sweetness that makes them irresistible.
These brownies are perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. They not only taste delicious but also look beautiful with their festive red and white topping. You’ll find that these brownies will become a favorite in your dessert rotation.
Nutritional Benefits
While desserts are usually enjoyed for their taste, they can provide some nutritional benefits too. Here’s a quick look:
Butter adds fat which can help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Eggs are a good source of protein and various essential vitamins.
Cocoa powder is rich in antioxidants and can improve heart health.
Peppermint may help with digestion and can also have a calming effect.
Of course, moderation is key when enjoying sweets, but knowing that there are some benefits can make these brownies feel a little less guilty!
What to Serve With Peppermint Bark Brownies
Peppermint Bark Brownies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a few add-ons:
Vanilla ice cream: The cold, creamy texture pairs perfectly with the warm brownies.
Whipped cream: A light topping adds a fluffy finish to each brownie square.
Coffee or hot chocolate: A warm beverage complements the sweetness of the brownies.
Fresh mint leaves: They can be added as a garnish for an extra fresh touch.
How to Store Peppermint Bark Brownies
Storing your Peppermint Bark Brownies is simple. Here’s how:
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat them within a few days, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
Refrigerator: For longer storage, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for about a week this way.
Freezer: If you want to keep them for an even longer time, you can freeze them. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and then store them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature.
Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Peppermint Bark Brownies come out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
Don’t overmix the batter: When you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in dense brownies.
Check baking time: Ovens can vary. Check your brownies a few minutes before the recommended baking time to avoid overcooking.
Let them cool completely: Allowing the brownies to cool fully makes cutting easier and helps the white chocolate top set properly.
Use high-quality chocolate: Good quality chocolate chips can enhance the flavor of your brownies significantly.
Variations
While Peppermint Bark Brownies are delicious as is, there are several ways to put a twist on this recipe:
Mint Chocolate Swirl: After spreading the brownie batter in the pan, reserve a little bit of the batter. Mix it with a drop of peppermint extract and swirl it into the brownie batter for a minty surprise.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
Different Toppings: Try using crushed festive candies like candy canes or even colored sprinkles for a fun look.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend to make these brownies gluten-free.
FAQs
1. Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Yes! Dark chocolate chips will give your brownies a richer chocolate flavor. Just adjust based on your sweetness preference.
2. Can I make these brownies in advance?
Absolutely! These brownies can be made ahead of time and stored as described above. They actually taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.
3. How can I make these brownies less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the brownie batter and use less white chocolate on top if you want a less sweet treat.
Enjoy your time baking these Peppermint Bark Brownies! They’re a festive treat that everyone will love!