As the weather turns chilly and the world outside is draped in a cozy blanket of snow, I find myself craving familiar comforts. There’s nothing quite like the inviting aroma of freshly baked brownies wafting through the kitchen, and when those brownies are infused with the refreshing twist of peppermint, it feels like a warm hug on a cold day.

I first tried this Classic Peppermint Brownies recipe at a holiday gathering, and it was love at first bite—rich, fudgy, and accented by crunchy peppermint candies that add just the right zing. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long week, these brownies are deceptively simple yet crowd-pleasers in every sense.

With just a handful of ingredients and a quick bake time, you’ll have a delightful batch ready in under an hour. So, let’s dive into this magical recipe that transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, creating sweet moments to savor this season.

Why Love Classic Peppermint Brownies?

Indulgence like no other: These Classic Peppermint Brownies deliver a rich, chocolatey experience that melts in your mouth, leaving you craving more.

Easy to make: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these decadent treats, making baking feel effortless.

A festive touch: The bright burst of peppermint adds a delightful and refreshing flavor that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.

Shareable joy: These brownies are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—guaranteed to impress family, friends, and even a few foodies!

Versatile delight: Enjoy them as is, or customize with toppings like whipped cream or ice cream for an elevated dessert experience.

Classic Peppermint Brownie Ingredients

For the Brownies
• Semisweet chocolate chips – their rich flavor and melting texture create a fudgy base in these Classic Peppermint Brownies.
• Vegetable oil – ensures that the brownies remain moist and tender throughout.
• Granulated sugar – adds sweetness and helps achieve that chewy texture we all love.
• Light brown sugar – packed for extra moisture and a hint of caramel undertone.
• Large eggs – at room temperature, they help bind the ingredients and provide lift.
• Vanilla extract – adds depth to the chocolate flavor, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
• Peppermint extract – a splash of this gives those brownies that refreshing twist we crave during the holidays!
• All-purpose flour – gives structure to the brownies while keeping them soft.
• Dutch-processed cocoa powder – adds a rich cocoa flavor, making your brownies deep and luscious.
• Kosher salt – enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the chocolate.
• Peppermint candies – finely crushed for that delightful crunch and burst of flavor on top.

Optional Toppings
• Whipped cream – a light addition that complements the brownies’ richness perfectly.
• Ice cream – serve alongside for an indulgent dessert experience everyone will love.

How to Make Classic Peppermint Brownies

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×9-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing extra overhang for easy removal later.

2. Melt the chocolate: Combine ½ cup of chocolate chips with the vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring often, until smooth and melted. Let cool slightly.

3. Mix the sugars: In a stand mixer bowl with a whisk attachment, combine granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and peppermint extract. Beat on high for 5-6 minutes, until thick and airy.

4. Combine mixtures: With the mixer on low, pour the cooled melted chocolate into the egg mixture. Mix gently until just combined to keep it airy.

5. Whisk dry ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and kosher salt. This step ensures even distribution of dry ingredients.

6. Combine wet and dry: Add the flour mixture to the chocolate batter. Mix on low speed until just combined, avoiding overmixing for a tender brownie.

7. Add chocolate chips: Gently fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips with a spatula, allowing those rich morsels to be evenly dispersed throughout your batter.

8. Prepare for baking: Pour the brownie batter into the lined pan, smoothing the top. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips over the surface for an extra treat.

9. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. They should be set with a toothpick coming out with a few moist crumbs.

10. Add peppermint crunch: Once out of the oven, immediately sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top. This adds a delightful crunch to your brownies as they cool.

11. Cool and serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift them out, cut into squares, and serve to eager guests.

Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top for a delightful twist!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Classic Peppermint Brownies

Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their fudgy texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you want to extend freshness, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Allow to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months—perfect for when chocolate cravings strike!

Reheating: To enjoy leftovers warm, microwave for about 10-15 seconds or heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes. This brings back their gooey goodness!

Classic Peppermint Brownies Variations

Feel free to tailor these brownies to suit your taste and dietary needs while retaining their delightful charm!

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a scrumptious, gluten-free treat.
• Mint Chocolate Chip: Incorporate ½ cup of mint chocolate chips in place of regular chips for an extra kick of minty goodness.
• Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch and flavor that perfectly complements the chocolate.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a deliciously indulgent vegan option.
• Salted Caramel Twist: Drizzle salted caramel on top before serving for an irresistible sweet-salty contrast that elevates each bite.
• Coconut Bliss: Fold in ½ cup of shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with chocolate and peppermint.
• Spicy Chocolate: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter to introduce a thrilling heat that surprises and delights.
• Peppermint Bark: Top the brownies with a layer of melted dark chocolate and crushed peppermint bark for an elegant and festive finish.

What to Serve with Classic Peppermint Brownies?

Imagine a cozy gathering filled with laughter and warmth, where delicious treats bring everyone together in sweet harmony.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, rich vanilla perfectly balances the intense chocolate and refreshing peppermint flavor. A scoop alongside the brownies creates a delightful contrast.

• Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this topping enhances the chocolaty goodness and adds extra decadence. It brings a lovely texture, making each bite even more enjoyable.

• Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries add a vibrant pop of color and a touch of tartness, balancing the sweetness of the brownies. Their juiciness complements the fudginess beautifully.

• Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Keep the peppermint theme alive with a warm cup of this delightful drink. Its rich chocolatey flavor, paired with the aromatic mint, creates an ultimate winter treat.

• Chocolate Milkshake: Combine the indulgence of chocolate with the minty twist. A thick, creamy shake is a nostalgic pairing that kids and adults will love alike.

• Coffee: A classic brewed coffee complements the sweetness of the brownies, allowing their rich flavors to shine. A splash of cream would add an extra level of indulgence.

• Nutty Brownie Sundae: Top with crushed nuts and a drizzle of hot fudge for an indulgent twist that takes dessert to the next level, making for an ultimate sharing treat.

Elevate your dessert experience with these vibrant combinations as you savor your Classic Peppermint Brownies!

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Peppermint Brownies are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts eager to save time! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Alternatively, you can bake the brownies in advance and let them cool completely before cutting. Once cooled, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies on top just before enjoying, ensuring that every bite is just as delicious and festive as the day they were baked.

Expert Tips for Classic Peppermint Brownies

Measure Carefully: Ensure you accurately measure your ingredients, especially the flour and cocoa powder, to avoid dense brownies.

Room Temperature Eggs: Using eggs at room temperature helps achieve a fluffier texture when whipped with the sugars in your Classic Peppermint Brownies.

Avoid Overmixing: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep your brownies tender and fudgy.

Check for Doneness: A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs; if it comes out clean, you may have overbaked the brownies!

Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool fully before cutting; this helps them set and makes for cleaner, easier squares.

Classic Peppermint Brownies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for the brownies?
Absolutely! For the best results, select high-quality semisweet chocolate chips—look for those with a rich chocolate flavor and avoid any with dark spots or an off smell. Fresh eggs should have a clean shell and feel heavy for size. Using room temperature eggs helps achieve a light, airy texture.

How should I store leftover Classic Peppermint Brownies?
You can store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to retain that delicious fudgy texture. If you want to keep them longer, move them to the refrigerator where they can last up to a week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze Classic Peppermint Brownies?
Very! To freeze, wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe ziplock bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or microwave them for 10-15 seconds for a quick treat.

What if my brownies turn out dry or crumbly?
The key here is not to overbake! If your brownies come out dry, check your oven temperature with a thermometer, and use a toothpick to test doneness—look for a few moist crumbs rather than a clean pick. Additionally, make sure to measure your flour correctly; a little too much can lead to dense brownies.

Are Classic Peppermint Brownies safe for pets and those with allergies?
Caution is advised! Chocolate and peppermint can pose health risks to pets, particularly dogs, so keep your brownies out of reach. For those with allergies, double-check ingredients for any potential allergens, especially if using store-bought chocolate chips. Opt for allergen-free chocolate if needed!