Festive Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe Perfect for Holidays

Imagine pulling a tray of fudgy brownies layered with creamy white chocolate and sprinkled with crushed candy canes out of the oven. The deep, chocolatey aroma fills your kitchen, while the sweet peppermint scent lingers, reminding you of the holidays. These Festive Peppermint Bark Brownies are the ultimate treat to share with loved ones—or to keep for yourself (no judgment here!). The first time I made these, it was a snowy December afternoon, and I couldn’t stop smiling after the first bite. They’re everything you want in a holiday dessert: indulgent, comforting, and just a little fancy.

My kids couldn’t resist sneaking bits of crushed candy canes from the bowl as I worked. Honestly, I can’t blame them. The combination of gooey chocolate brownie and crunchy peppermint topping is downright irresistible. These brownies have quickly become a staple for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, and even as edible gifts for neighbors. If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug wrapped in festive cheer, bookmark this recipe—you’re going to love it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a master baker to whip these up. The recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly.
• Show-Stopping Presentation: The white chocolate layer and vibrant peppermint pieces are holiday perfection.
• Perfect for Any Holiday Occasion: Great for festive parties, dessert tables, or cozy nights by the fire.
• Customizable: You can tweak this recipe to suit your taste—a little more chocolate, a little less peppermint—it’s up to you!
• Made for Peppermint Lovers: The refreshing, cool flavor of peppermint perfectly complements the rich chocolate.

What makes these brownies stand out is the layering of flavors and textures. The fudgy brownie base is decadently rich, while the white chocolate topping adds creamy sweetness. The crushed peppermint candies bring a crunch and a pop of freshness that ties everything together. Plus, they’re festive enough to impress your guests without requiring hours of effort. Trust me—you’ll be making these long after the holidays are over.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients to create a show-stopping dessert. Most of these items are pantry staples, but the peppermint bark twist makes them feel extra special.

• For the Brownie Base:
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• For the Peppermint Bark Layer:
• 6 ounces (170g) white chocolate, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1/4 cup (40g) crushed candy canes

If you’re not a fan of white chocolate, you can substitute semi-sweet chocolate instead. You can also use pre-crushed peppermint candies for convenience. Don’t forget to use good-quality cocoa powder for that deep, rich flavor!

Equipment Needed

You don’t need anything fancy to make these brownies. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
• Whisk or hand mixer
• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)

If you don’t have parchment paper, you can grease the baking pan with butter or cooking spray. I’ve also used silicone baking mats in a pinch—they work great for even baking and easy cleanup.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy brownie removal.
2. Make the brownie batter: In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until well combined. Add eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is smooth.
3. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
4. Bake the brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
5. Prepare the peppermint bark topping: Melt the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 15 seconds until smooth. Mix in the peppermint extract.
6. Add the topping: Spread the melted white chocolate evenly over the cooled brownies. Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top while the chocolate is still warm.
7. Set and slice: Let the topping set at room temperature or in the fridge for 15–20 minutes. Once firm, lift the brownies out using the parchment overhang and slice into squares.

Pro tip: If your white chocolate seizes while melting, add a small amount of vegetable oil to smooth it out. Don’t skip letting the brownies cool completely—it ensures clean slicing and prevents the topping from melting into the brownie layer.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can make your brownies tough. Stir until the dry ingredients are just incorporated.
• Use Room Temperature Eggs: Cold eggs can make the batter harder to mix, so let them warm up before using.
• Crush Candy Canes Easily: Place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them—no mess, no fuss.
• Check Early: Brownies can go from perfectly gooey to overbaked quickly. Start checking for doneness at the 20-minute mark.
• Prevent Sticking: Use parchment paper to line the pan for easy removal and cleanup.

Variations & Adaptations

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Dark Chocolate Twist: Use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for the topping if you prefer a richer flavor.
• Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for extra crunch.
• Vegan Version: Use flax eggs, dairy-free butter, and vegan white chocolate for a plant-based treat.

One of my favorite variations is adding a drizzle of dark chocolate over the peppermint topping—it adds a sophisticated touch and balances the sweetness beautifully.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These brownies are best served at room temperature, allowing the flavors to shine. Pair them with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee for the ultimate holiday indulgence.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze the brownies (before adding the peppermint topping) for up to 3 months. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge before adding the topping and serving.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

While these brownies are a decadent treat, they do include some nutritional perks:

• Estimated Calories: 210 per serving
• Rich in antioxidants from cocoa powder
• Provides a quick burst of energy

Keep in mind that the crushed candy canes add sugar, so enjoy these in moderation if you’re watching your intake. For those with allergies, the recipe contains dairy, eggs, and gluten, but substitutions are available.

Conclusion

If you’re searching for the perfect holiday dessert, these Festive Peppermint Bark Brownies are it. They’re easy to make, visually stunning, and packed with holiday flavors that will impress any crowd. Customize them to suit your preferences, and don’t be surprised if they become a family tradition. Honestly, these brownies have a special place in my heart—and I hope they’ll find one in yours too.

Give them a try, and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below. I’d love to hear how you make this recipe your own. Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with sweetness and joy!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought brownie mix?

Yes! If you’re short on time, a boxed brownie mix works perfectly. Just add the peppermint bark topping as directed.

How do I crush candy canes without making a mess?

Place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin or heavy-bottomed pan to crush them. Easy and mess-free!

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can bake the brownies a day in advance and add the topping right before serving.

What’s the best way to melt white chocolate?

Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 15-second intervals, stirring between each. Alternatively, use a double boiler for gentle heating.

Can I use peppermint extract in the brownie batter?

Yes, but use sparingly—1/4 teaspoon is enough to add a subtle peppermint flavor without overpowering the chocolate.

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