Introduction
Indulging in brownies is a delightful experience, especially when they are enhanced with festive flavors. This recipe combines a rich brownie layer with refreshing peppermint frosting and a glossy chocolate ganache, creating a decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these peppermint brownies are a must-try!
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Brownie Layer:
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
– 1¼ cups granulated sugar
– ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
Peppermint Frosting:
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– Optional: a few drops of red food coloring
Chocolate Ganache:
– 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
– ½ cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Garnish:
– Crushed candy canes
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
25-30 minutes
Total Time
Approximately 1 hour (plus cooling time)
Yield
16 brownies
Directions
1. Prepare the Brownie Layer:
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
– In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and chopped semi-sweet chocolate. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth.
– Stir in the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
– Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
– Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined.
– Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
– Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the edge comes out with a few moist crumbs.
– Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
2. Prepare the Peppermint Frosting:
– In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
– Add the peppermint extract and mix well.
– Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth.
– Add the heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
– If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring and mix until the color is uniform.
– Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled brownies.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
– Place the chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
– In a small saucepan, heat the heavy whipping cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
– Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
– Add the unsalted butter and stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
– Allow the ganache to cool slightly until it thickens to a pourable consistency.
– Pour the ganache over the peppermint frosting, spreading it evenly.
4. Garnish and Serve:
– Before the ganache sets, sprinkle crushed candy canes over the top for a festive touch.
– Allow the ganache to set completely before slicing the brownies into squares.
– Serve and enjoy your homemade peppermint brownies.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Brownie Layer:
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
– In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and chopped semi-sweet chocolate. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth.
– Stir in the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
– Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
– Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined.
– Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
– Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the edge comes out with a few moist crumbs.
– Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
Prepare the Peppermint Frosting:
– In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
– Add the peppermint extract and mix well.
– Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth.
– Add the heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
– If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring and mix until the color is uniform.
– Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled brownies.
Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
– Place the chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
– In a small saucepan, heat the heavy whipping cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
– Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
– Add the unsalted butter and stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
– Allow the ganache to cool slightly until it thickens to a pourable consistency.
– Pour the ganache over the peppermint frosting, spreading it evenly.
Garnish and Serve:
– Before the ganache sets, sprinkle crushed candy canes over the top for a festive touch.
– Allow the ganache to set completely before slicing the brownies into squares.
– Serve and enjoy your homemade peppermint brownies.
Notes
Storage:
– Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Substitutions:
– You can use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate for a richer flavor.
Decorative Options:
– Consider adding additional festive toppings, such as chocolate shavings or sprinkles, for extra decoration.
Cook techniques
Melting Chocolate
Combine unsalted butter and chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is melted and smooth.
Combining Ingredients
Incorporate granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt into the melted chocolate mixture until well mixed. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, followed by gently folding in all-purpose flour until just combined.
Baking Brownies
Spread the brownie batter evenly in a prepared pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted near the edge comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Preparing Frosting
Beat softened unsalted butter until creamy, then add peppermint extract and mix well. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar until smooth, and adjust the consistency with heavy cream.
Making Ganache
Heat heavy whipping cream until simmering, pour it over chopped semi-sweet chocolate, and let sit for a few minutes. Stir in unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Garnishing
Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the ganache before it sets to add a festive touch.
FAQ
Can I use different types of chocolate for the brownies?
Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate or milk chocolate for semi-sweet chocolate, though it may alter the flavor and sweetness.
How do I know when brownies are done baking?
Brownies are done when a toothpick inserted near the edge comes out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
Can I make the peppermint frosting without heavy cream?
Yes, you can omit the heavy cream, but it may affect the texture. You can use milk as a substitute if needed.
What can I use instead of peppermint extract?
You can replace peppermint extract with other extracts, such as vanilla, almond, or even spearmint, for different flavor profiles.
How should I store the brownies?
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Conclusion
Indulge in the rich and festive flavors of these peppermint brownies, combining a decadent brownie layer with a refreshing peppermint frosting and luscious chocolate ganache. Perfect for any celebration, these treats will delight your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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Create classic chocolate mint cookies by incorporating peppermint extract into chocolate cookie dough, adding chocolate chips for a delightful texture.
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Whip up a cozy peppermint hot chocolate using rich cocoa, whipped cream, and a splash of peppermint extract, topped with crushed candy canes for a crunchy finish.
Chocolate Peppermint Cupcakes
Bake moist chocolate cupcakes and fill them with peppermint frosting, drizzled with chocolate ganache for a deliciously festive dessert.
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Chocolate Mint Cheesecake
Prepare a creamy chocolate cheesecake infused with peppermint and topped with chocolate ganache for an elegant dessert option.
Chocolate Covered Peppermint Patties
Make homemade peppermint patties by mixing powdered sugar with peppermint extract, coating them in dark chocolate for a delightful treat.
