Introduction to Holiday Peppermint Brownies
The Perfect Treat for the Festive Season
As the holiday season approaches, the air fills with excitement and joy. One of the best ways to celebrate is through delicious treats. Among these, Holiday Peppermint Brownies stand out as a festive favorite. These brownies are not just any dessert; they combine rich chocolate flavor with a refreshing hint of peppermint. This delightful combination makes them perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or cozy nights at home.
Imagine biting into a fudgy brownie, where the chocolate melts in your mouth, and a burst of peppermint dances on your taste buds. It’s a treat that brings warmth and cheer to any occasion. Plus, they are easy to make, which means you can whip them up quickly, even if you’re busy with holiday preparations.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for a sweet gift, these brownies are sure to impress. They are simple enough for beginner bakers yet delicious enough to satisfy even the most discerning chocolate lovers. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create a dessert that will become a cherished tradition in your home.
In the following sections, we will guide you through the ingredients and step-by-step preparation of these delightful Holiday Peppermint Brownies. Let’s dive into the world of holiday baking!
Ingredients for Holiday Peppermint Brownies
To create the perfect batch of Holiday Peppermint Brownies, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in achieving that rich, chocolatey flavor combined with a refreshing peppermint twist. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup (120 g) – This gives the brownies structure.
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200 g) – Sweetens the brownies and helps create a fudgy texture.
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (113 g), melted – Adds richness and moisture.
- Eggs: 2 large – Binds the ingredients together and adds fluffiness.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon – Enhances the overall flavor.
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon – Helps the brownies rise slightly.
- Cocoa powder: 1/3 cup (40 g) – Provides that deep chocolate flavor.
- Powdered sugar: for dusting – Adds a sweet finishing touch.
- Peppermint extract: 1/2 teaspoon – Infuses the brownies with a refreshing minty flavor.
- Chocolate chips: 1 cup (175 g) – Adds extra chocolatey goodness and texture.
- Red and green sprinkles: for decoration – Makes the brownies festive and fun!
Gather these ingredients before you start baking. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Now that you know what you need, let’s move on to the step-by-step preparation of these delightful Holiday Peppermint Brownies.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Holiday Peppermint Brownies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish
Before you start mixing, it’s important to preheat your oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Holiday Peppermint Brownies bake evenly. While the oven heats up, take an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking pan. You can grease it with butter or line it with parchment paper. Lining the pan makes it easier to remove the brownies later. Now, you’re ready to move on to the next step!
Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter for Holiday Peppermint Brownies
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Use a whisk or a spatula to mix them together until the mixture is smooth. Next, add the eggs one at a time. Make sure to mix well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air into the batter, making your brownies light and fluffy. After that, stir in the vanilla extract. This adds a lovely depth of flavor to your brownies.
Step 3: Add Peppermint Flavor to the Brownies
Now it’s time to add that special peppermint flavor! Pour in the peppermint extract and mix it into the batter. The peppermint will give your brownies a refreshing twist that’s perfect for the holiday season. After mixing, set this bowl aside for a moment while you prepare the dry ingredients.
Step 4: Bake the Holiday Peppermint Brownies
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your brownies tough. Once the batter is ready, fold in the chocolate chips. This will add extra chocolatey goodness to your Holiday Peppermint Brownies.
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Now, place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, your brownies are ready!
Step 5: Prepare the Topping for Holiday Peppermint Brownies
Once your brownies are baked, remove them from the oven. Let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps them set and makes them easier to handle. After that, transfer the brownies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, it’s time to add a sweet finishing touch. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a snowy effect. This adds a lovely sweetness and makes your brownies look festive!
Step 6: Assemble and Cool the Brownies
For the final touch, sprinkle red and green sprinkles over the powdered sugar. This not only adds color but also makes your Holiday Peppermint Brownies look extra special. Now, cut the brownies into squares. You can serve them as they are or add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Enjoy your delicious holiday dessert!
FAQs about Holiday Peppermint Brownies
Can I make Holiday Peppermint Brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make Holiday Peppermint Brownies a day or two in advance. Just bake them, let them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container. This way, the flavors can meld together, making them even more delicious. When you’re ready to serve, simply dust with powdered sugar and add sprinkles for that festive touch!
How should I store Holiday Peppermint Brownies?
To keep your Holiday Peppermint Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature.
Can I substitute ingredients in Holiday Peppermint Brownies?
Yes, you can! There are several substitutions you can make in your Holiday Peppermint Brownies recipe. For instance, if you need a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. You can also swap out the granulated sugar for coconut sugar or a sugar substitute if you prefer. Just keep in mind that these changes may slightly alter the texture and flavor.
What is the best way to serve Holiday Peppermint Brownies?
The best way to serve Holiday Peppermint Brownies is warm, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This creates a delightful contrast between the warm brownie and the cold topping. You can also drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top for an extra treat. For a festive touch, serve them on a decorative platter with other holiday desserts!
Print
Holiday Peppermint Brownies: A Festive Delight Awaits!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Holiday Peppermint Brownies are a festive treat that combines rich chocolate flavor with a refreshing hint of peppermint, perfect for holiday gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup (120 g)
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200 g)
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (113 g), melted
- Eggs: 2 large
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
- Cocoa powder: 1/3 cup (40 g)
- Powdered sugar: for dusting
- Peppermint extract: 1/2 teaspoon
- Chocolate chips: 1 cup (175 g)
- Red and green sprinkles: for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Add peppermint extract to the batter and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Once baked, let the brownies cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle with red and green sprinkles before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Use unbleached all-purpose flour for better texture.
- Opt for unsweetened cocoa powder for a deep chocolate flavor.
- Always use unsalted butter to control saltiness.
- Choose semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.
- Use pure peppermint extract for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Holiday, Peppermint, Brownies, Dessert, Festive
