“`html
If you are craving an irresistible treat that captures the cozy warmth of hot chocolate with a refreshing peppermint twist, the Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine rich, fudgy brownies infused with deep cocoa flavor and brightened by a hint of peppermint, crowned with a perfectly toasted marshmallow topping and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies. This decadent dessert is not just a feast for your taste buds but also a joyful celebration of all the best wintertime flavors in one delightful bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies Recipe is surprisingly straightforward yet relies on a selection of essential ingredients that work in harmony to create a moist, flavorful, and festive dessert. Each component plays a key role in balancing texture, taste, and that special peppermint charm.
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup melted butter forms the rich, tender base for the brownies and helps create their fudgy texture.
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup adds sweetness and helps create that slight crisp crust on top.
- Brown sugar: 1/2 cup packed brown sugar adds moisture and a deep caramel undertone.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 3/4 cup for that unmistakably rich chocolate flavor essential to hot chocolate vibes.
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup to give the brownies structure while keeping them soft and chewy.
- Baking powder: 1/4 teaspoon to provide a subtle lift without compromising density.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon to enhance all the chocolate and peppermint flavors.
- Eggs: 2 large eggs bind the ingredients together and enrich the batter.
- Peppermint extract: 1 teaspoon, the star flavor that delivers that refreshing coolness synonymous with peppermint hot chocolate.
- Chocolate chips (optional): 1/2 cup for an extra punch of melty chocolate throughout.
- Mini marshmallows: 1 1/2 cups to create that gooey, toasted topping recalling your favorite cup of hot cocoa.
- Crushed peppermint candies (optional): 1/4 cup for a crunchy, festive garnish that adds color and intensified minty bursts.
How to Make Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This simple preparation ensures your brownies will come out cleanly, making slicing and serving a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir them together well to evenly distribute the leavening and cocoa throughout the flour, guaranteeing every bite bursts with consistent chocolate flavor.
Step 3: Make the Brownie Batter
In a separate large bowl, whisk the melted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until velvety smooth. Then, incorporate the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition—this step brings the batter together perfectly. Finally, stir in the peppermint extract. That fresh peppermint aroma will let you know you’re on the right track!
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your brownies tender and moist. If you’re adding chocolate chips, gently fold them in now to distribute gooey chocolate pockets throughout the batter.
Step 5: Bake the Brownies
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth it out. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center emerges with a few moist crumbs. This ensures the brownies stay fudgy and not dry—a classic hallmark of this Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies Recipe.
Step 6: Add the Marshmallow Topping
As soon as you take the brownies out of the oven, scatter the mini marshmallows evenly over the surface. Return the pan to the oven for 2-3 minutes, watching closely as the marshmallows puff up and achieve a golden, toasted finish. This gooey cloud topping is what makes these brownies feel like a warm hug in dessert form.
Step 7: Cool and Garnish
Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes to set properly. If you want to elevate the festive flair, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top of the toasted marshmallows. The result is a visually stunning and deliciously textured treat.
How to Serve Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
The toasted marshmallows themselves shine wonderfully, but you can take it a step further by adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or even a drizzle of white chocolate. These simple touches add extra elegance and sweetness without overpowering the peppermint and cocoa base.
Side Dishes
Serve these brownies alongside a steaming mug of peppermint hot chocolate or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between warm, fudgy brownies and cold creamy ice cream is a true delight, and pairing with hot chocolate intensifies the cozy peppermint theme.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, cut the brownies into bite-sized squares and place them on decorative trays with peppermint sticks and small cups of marshmallow fluff for dipping. You can also layer crumbled brownies with whipped cream and crushed peppermint in glass parfaits for a fun, interactive dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies keep beautifully when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This allows the marshmallow topping to stay soft and the brownies deliciously moist without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save these brownies for later, they freeze well. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight bag or container before freezing. They’ll last up to three months and thaw conveniently at room temperature when you’re ready for a peppermint chocolate fix.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers warm, microwave individual brownies for about 10-15 seconds or gently reheat in an oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. This revives the gooey marshmallows and softens the chocolate to its perfect melty state again.
FAQs
Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of peppermint extract?
While vanilla extracts offer a classic flavor, peppermint extract is key to achieving the signature cool, minty twist of the Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies Recipe. If you skip it, you lose that wintery, festive vibe.
Do I have to use marshmallows on top?
Marshmallows are what make these brownies extra special by adding gooey texture and a playful finish. However, if you’re not a fan, you can simply omit them, but keep in mind it slightly shifts the character of the recipe.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Make sure your cocoa powder and other ingredients are certified gluten-free for best results.
What’s the best way to crush the peppermint candies?
Place the peppermint candies in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy skillet. Aim for a mixture of small chunks and fine pieces to get both crunch and color without overwhelming the marshmallow topping.
Can I add nuts to the batter?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a wonderful crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft brownie and marshmallow topping. Just fold them in with the chocolate chips if you are using them.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about crafting a batch of Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies Recipe, especially when you share them with friends and family on a chilly day. This recipe brings together beloved flavors and textures that warm the soul and brighten spirits. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to this festive, deliciously fudgy delight—you won’t regret it!
“`
Print
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-28 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownies are a decadent holiday treat combining rich cocoa, refreshing peppermint, and gooey marshmallows. Baked to fudgy perfection and topped with toasted marshmallows and crushed peppermint candies, they deliver a delightful blend of chocolate and mint flavor that’s perfect for winter gatherings or festive celebrations.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional for extra chocolate flavor)
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies (optional for extra crunch and minty flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the brownies after baking.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute all dry ingredients.
- Make the Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition to fully incorporate. Stir in the peppermint extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing. If using, fold in the chocolate chips carefully.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Add the Marshmallow Topping: Remove the brownies from the oven and immediately spread the mini marshmallows over the top evenly. Return the pan to the oven for 2-3 minutes until the marshmallows puff up and turn a light golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares. Optionally, sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the toasted marshmallows to add an extra festive crunch and mint flavor.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to ensure fudgy brownies.
- Use parchment paper for lining the pan for easier clean-up and removal.
- Marshmallow topping should be added immediately after baking to melt properly.
- Optional chocolate chips add extra richness but can be omitted for a simpler version.
- Crushed peppermint candies provide festive crunch and mint flavor but can be skipped if unavailable.
