Description
Delight in these rich, fudgy One Bowl Peppermint Brownies featuring a luscious chocolate ganache infused with peppermint extract and topped with crushed peppermint candies. Perfectly moist and bursting with chocolate and mint flavors, these brownies bake in a convenient single bowl and are ideal for holiday treats or anytime indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 12 Tbsp. unsalted butter
- 1 1/4 cups chocolate chips, divided (1/2 cup for melting, 3/4 cup for folding in)
- 3/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 3 large eggs
- 2 Tbsp. vegetable oil
- 1 tsp. peppermint extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose 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
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the brownies.
- Prepare Pan: Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and 1/2 cup of the chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth, about 1 minute 30 seconds total.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the cocoa powder, salt, and espresso powder (if using) until well combined.
- Add Sugars: Incorporate both the granulated sugar and packed brown sugar into the chocolate mixture and stir thoroughly.
- Incorporate Eggs: Whisk in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Flavor with Peppermint and Oil: Whisk in the peppermint extract and vegetable oil until the batter is smooth and combined.
- Fold in Flour and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and the remaining 3/4 cup chocolate chips just until combined; avoid overmixing to maintain fudgy texture.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs remaining.
- Cool: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan to set before frosting.
- Prepare Ganache: Place 1 cup chocolate chips in a medium heat-proof bowl. Warm the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until just warm, not boiling. Pour the warm cream over the chocolate and let it sit 3-4 minutes to melt. Stir gently until smooth and creamy. Stir in peppermint extract, butter, and a pinch of salt until well incorporated.
- Frost Brownies: Spread the ganache evenly over the cooled brownies. Sprinkle the top with crushed peppermint candies or candy canes for a festive garnish.
- Set Ganache: Refrigerate the brownies for at least one hour to allow the ganache to set firmly.
- Serve: Use a sharp knife to cut the brownies into squares with clean edges and enjoy your peppermint brownies.
Notes
- Do not overbake brownies to ensure a fudgy texture; moist crumbs on the toothpick are ideal.
- Espresso powder is optional but enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean edges.
- Crushed peppermint candies add a festive crunch and extra mint flavor.
- For cleaner ganache spreading, ensure brownies are completely cooled before frosting.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: peppermint brownies, chocolate brownies, fudge brownies, peppermint extract dessert, holiday brownies, easy brownies, one bowl brownies, peppermint ganache
