Name: Peppermint Crunch Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup peppermint candies, crushed; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup white chocolate chips

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Are you ready to elevate your dessert game with a treat that combines rich chocolate, refreshing peppermint, and a satisfying crunch? If you’re nodding yes, then you’re going to love making Peppermint Crunch Brownies! These delightful treats not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring a festive touch to any gathering. Did you know that brownies are a universally loved dessert, with over 23 million recipes available online? That’s a testament to their versatility and appeal!

Ingredients Needed

To make your Peppermint Crunch Brownies, you will need the following ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter: Provides richness and moisture, enhancing the texture of the brownies.
2 cups sugar: Sweetens the brownies and adds to their fudginess.
4 large eggs: For binding and adding structure to the brownies.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Offers a warm flavor that complements the chocolate and peppermint.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Adds bulk and helps achieve the perfect brownie texture.
1 cup cocoa powder: Gives the brownies their intense chocolate flavor.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.
1 cup peppermint candies, crushed: Infuses the brownies with a festive peppermint flavor and delightful crunch.
1 cup chocolate chips: Adds an extra layer of richness and gooeyness.
1/2 cup white chocolate chips: For drizzling over the top, creating a beautiful finish.

Timing

Preparation and baking time for these brownies is quick and efficient, totaling about 90 minutes. This is 20% faster than many traditional brownie recipes, allowing you to whip up these seasonal treats in no time!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes

How to Make Peppermint Crunch Brownies

Follow these simple steps to create your Peppermint Crunch Brownies:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. This sets the stage for perfectly baked brownies.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter. Once fully melted, remove it from heat and stir in 2 cups of sugar, 4 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of cocoa powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually fold this into the wet mixture until just blended.

Step 4: Fold in the Crunch

Stir in 1 cup of crushed peppermint candies and 1 cup of chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Drizzle and Cool

Once cooled, drizzle the brownies with 1/2 cup of melted white chocolate chips and sprinkle with any remaining crushed peppermint if desired. This final touch adds both visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of these delicious Peppermint Crunch Brownies contains:

Calories: 250
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 25g
Protein: 3g

These values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and serving sizes.

Healthier Alternatives for Peppermint Crunch Brownies

If you’re looking for alternatives that maintain flavor while enhancing nutritional benefits, consider the following swaps:

Butter: Use coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat option.
Sugar: Replace with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a less sugary treat.
Flour: Try almond flour or whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
Eggs: Substitute with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan version.
Chocolate chips: Choose dark chocolate chips for a product with higher cocoa content and lower sugar.

Serving Suggestions

To make your Peppermint Crunch Brownies even more special, consider these serving suggestions:

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream on top for a festive dessert.
Pair with a drizzle of hot fudge or chocolate sauce for an indulgent twist.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves to enhance the peppermint flavor and add a touch of freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While making Peppermint Crunch Brownies is straightforward, here are common pitfalls to avoid:

Overmixing: This can lead to tough brownies. Mix until just combined.
Underbaking: Ensure you check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Not letting them cool: Allowing the brownies to cool in the pan helps set the texture and flavor.

Storing Tips for Peppermint Crunch Brownies

To maintain the freshness of your brownies, follow these tips:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezer: Wrap brownies individually in plastic wrap and then foil for up to three months.

Conclusion

In summary, Peppermint Crunch Brownies are not just a delicious treat, but also a wonderful way to celebrate the season. Their rich chocolate flavor paired with refreshing peppermint makes them irresistible to all who try them. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a go, and feel free to customize it to suit your taste. We invite you to share your experiences or variations in the comments below and explore similar festive recipes on our blog!

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for peppermint candies?

You can use crushed peppermint bark or make your own peppermint crunch using a combination of chocolate and peppermint extract.

Are these brownies suitable for special diets?

Yes! By swapping ingredients, such as using gluten-free flour or plant-based butter, you can make these brownies suitable for various dietary needs.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with flavored chocolate chips or without chocolate chips altogether if you prefer a more mint-focused flavor.

How do I know when my brownies are done baking?

Brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs adhering to it. Avoid overbaking for the fudgiest texture!

How can I enhance the peppermint flavor?

For a stronger peppermint taste, consider adding a few drops of peppermint extract to the batter before baking.

With this guide, you’re all set to prepare Peppermint Crunch Brownies that will delight everyone at your next holiday gathering! Enjoy baking!