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One Bowl Peppermint Brownies Recipe

4.9 from 155 reviews

Delight in these rich, fudgy One Bowl Peppermint Brownies, a perfect blend of deep chocolate flavor with refreshing peppermint. These brownies feature a moist chocolate base enhanced with espresso powder for depth, topped with a smooth peppermint chocolate ganache and garnished with crushed peppermint candies for a festive crunch. Easy to prepare and ideal for holiday gatherings or any chocolate lover’s treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Base

  • 12 Tbsp. unsalted butter
  • 1 1/4 cups chocolate chips, divided
  • 3/4 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp peppermint extract
  • 3/4 cup flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp espresso powder (optional)

Ganache Topping

  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp peppermint extract
  • 1 tsp unsalted butter
  • Pinch of salt
  • Peppermint candies or candy canes, crushed for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan by greasing it and lining with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and ½ cup of the chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth, about 1 minute 30 seconds total.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the cocoa powder, salt, and espresso powder (if using) until well combined.
  4. Mix Sugars: Add both white sugar and brown sugar to the melted mixture, stirring to combine evenly.
  5. Incorporate Eggs: Whisk in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  6. Add Flavor and Oil: Stir in the peppermint extract and vegetable oil to the batter, mixing well.
  7. Fold in Flour and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the flour and remaining chocolate chips into the batter just until combined, avoiding overmixing.
  8. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 35-40 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick—there should be moist crumbs but no wet batter. Avoid overbaking for a fudgy texture.
  9. Cool Completely: Remove brownies from the oven and allow to cool fully in the pan before moving on to the ganache.
  10. Prepare Ganache: Place 1 cup chocolate chips in a medium heat-proof bowl. Warm heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until just warm, not boiling. Pour the warm cream over the chocolate and let sit for 3-4 minutes to melt.
  11. Mix Ganache Ingredients: Whisk the melted chocolate and cream until smooth and creamy. Stir in peppermint extract, butter, and a pinch of salt until well blended.
  12. Apply Ganache: Spread the ganache evenly over the cooled brownies. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top for garnish.
  13. Set Ganache: Refrigerate the brownies for at least one hour to allow the ganache to firm up properly.
  14. Serve: Use a sharp knife to cut the brownies into squares, making clean and neat cuts. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Using parchment paper in the baking pan ensures easy removal of brownies without sticking.
  • Espresso powder is optional but enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.
  • Be careful not to overbake to keep brownies fudgy and moist.
  • Crushing peppermint candies or candy canes adds a festive and crunchy texture contrast.
  • Refrigerate ganache-topped brownies to achieve a smooth, firm finish before serving.

Keywords: peppermint brownies, chocolate brownies, peppermint ganache, holiday dessert, fudgy brownies, one bowl brownie recipe, easy peppermint brownies