Introduction
Indulge in the delightful combination of chocolate and peppermint with this rich and decadent brownie recipe topped with a fluffy peppermint frosting and a glossy chocolate ganache. Perfect for the holidays or any special occasion, these layered brownies are sure to impress friends and family alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Brownie Layer:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate (baking bars or chips)
– 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs (room temperature)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Peppermint Frosting:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream
Chocolate Ganache:
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate (baking bars or chips)
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 45 minutes (including 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, melt the unsalted butter and semi-sweet chocolate together in short intervals, stirring between each until 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 to ensure a shiny top on the brownies.
– Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
– Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
– Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center 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 unsalted butter until creamy.
– Add the peppermint extract and mix until incorporated.
– Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth.
– Add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
– Spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the cooled brownie layer.
3. **Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:**
– Place the 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 chocolate and let it sit for a minute to soften the chocolate.
– 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 layer, spreading it evenly.
4. **Set and Serve:**
– Refrigerate the brownies until the ganache is set, about 1-2 hours.
– Once set, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper, place them on a cutting board, and slice into squares.
– Serve and enjoy.
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, melt the unsalted butter and semi-sweet chocolate together in short intervals, stirring between each until 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 to ensure a shiny top on the brownies.
– Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
– Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
– Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center 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 unsalted butter until creamy.
– Add the peppermint extract and mix until incorporated.
– Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth.
– Add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
– Spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the cooled brownie layer.
Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
– Place the 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 chocolate and let it sit for a minute to soften the chocolate.
– 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 layer, spreading it evenly.
Set and Serve:
– Refrigerate the brownies until the ganache is set, about 1-2 hours.
– Once set, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper, place them on a cutting board, and slice into squares.
– Serve and enjoy.
Notes
Ingredient Temperature:
Ensure that the eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
Measuring Ingredients:
Accurately measure your ingredients, especially the flour and powdered sugar, for the best results.
Cooling Time:
Allow sufficient time for the brownies and ganache to cool before serving to enhance flavor and texture.
Storage:
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Cook techniques
Melting Chocolate and Butter
When melting chocolate with butter, use short intervals in the microwave and stir between each to avoid overheating. This ensures a smooth and glossy final product.
Incorporating Eggs
When adding eggs to the brownie batter, do so one at a time and beat well after each addition. This technique helps to create a shiny top on the brownies by incorporating air into the mixture.
Folding in Flour
To prevent overmixing, gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined. This technique ensures that the brownies remain fudgy rather than becoming tough.
Creating Frosting
For fluffy frosting, beat softened butter until creamy and then gradually add powdered sugar while mixing. This helps to incorporate air and create a light texture.
Making Ganache
To create a smooth chocolate ganache, heat the heavy whipping cream until it simmers, then pour it over chopped chocolate and let it sit briefly. This allows the chocolate to melt evenly.
FAQ
Can I use different types of chocolate for the brownies and ganache?
Yes, you can use dark chocolate or milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate, but it may alter the flavor and sweetness of the final product.
Can I make the brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the brownies a day or two in advance. Just ensure they are stored in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done. Be careful not to overbake.
What can I use instead of peppermint extract for the frosting?
You can substitute peppermint extract with any other flavor extract, such as vanilla or almond, depending on your preference.
How should I store the finished brownies?
Store the finished brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Conclusion
This layered brownie dessert, featuring a rich brownie base, refreshing peppermint frosting, and silky chocolate ganache, is the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Its delightful combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout treat that will surely satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy sharing these delightful brownies with friends and family, or savor them all to yourself!
Chocolate Mint Cupcakes
Transform the brownie layers into chocolate mint cupcakes topped with peppermint frosting and drizzled with chocolate ganache for a fun and festive twist.
Layered Cake
Create a decadent layered cake by stacking brownie layers with peppermint frosting and luxurious chocolate ganache, perfect for special celebrations.
Ice Cream Sundae
Crush brownie pieces to serve as a base for a chocolate mint ice cream sundae, layering with peppermint frosting and drizzling with warm chocolate ganache.
Brownie Milkshake
Blend leftover brownie pieces with ice cream and a splash of milk for a delicious brownie milkshake, topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of ganache.
Brownie Parfait
Layer brownie squares, peppermint frosting, and whipped cream in a glass for an impressive brownie parfait that is as visually striking as it is delicious.
