Indulgent Fudgy Peppermint Brownies with Creamy Frosting Recipe

Delicious fudgy peppermint brownies with a creamy frosting topping (attached affiliate link to a dessert cookbook)

The festive season is an ideal time to enjoy the delightful pairing of chocolate and peppermint. These indulgent fudgy peppermint brownies, topped with silky creamy frosting, are sure to bring joy to any gathering. This recipe is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s a crowd-pleaser that impresses with every bite.

In this post, we will walk you through the simple steps to create fudgy brownies that have the perfect texture, accompanied by a frosting that enhances the peppermint flavor beautifully.

Ingredients

To make these fudgy peppermint brownies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Brownies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 cup chocolate chips

• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

  
  

For the Frosting:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

• Crushed peppermint candies for garnish (optional)

  
  

Preparing the Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it helps the brownies bake evenly, ensuring that they reach a soft and fudgy texture.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, take it off the heat and mix in the granulated sugar until well combined. Using a whisk can help make the mixing process smoother.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time to the melted butter and sugar mixture, stirring well after each addition. Incorporate the vanilla and peppermint extracts. This allows the flavors to merge, creating a rich base for your brownies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually mix this dry blend into your wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful here—overmixing can make your brownies denser than desired.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold the chocolate chips into your batter. This will enhance the fudginess and add bursts of chocolate in each bite.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the brownie batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. This step is vital—overbaking can lead to dry brownies.

Making the Frosting

Step 1: Cream the Butter

While the brownies are baking, prepare the frosting. Beat the softened butter in a mixing bowl until it becomes creamy and smooth.

Step 2: Add Sugar and Cream

Slowly add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until fully combined. Then, pour in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Beat on high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Frost the Brownies

Once the brownies have cooled completely, evenly spread the creamy frosting over the top. For an extra festive flair, top with crushed peppermint candies. These not only add color but also a delightful crunch.

Creative Ways to Enjoy

These fudgy peppermint brownies shine at any gathering. Consider serving them at holiday parties, for family get-togethers, or even as a post-dinner dessert. For a truly indulgent treat, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Recent studies found that desserts paired with cold treats enhance sweetness perception by up to 30%.

Keeping Your Treats Fresh

To store your brownies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to keep them even longer, freezing is an option. Wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their deliciousness.

A Sweet Conclusion

Treating yourself to these fudgy peppermint brownies with creamy frosting can elevate any occasion. The rich chocolate flavor combined with refreshing peppermint creates an irresistible balance.

Whether you're an experienced baker or just starting out, this rewarding recipe is straightforward. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to delight in a batch of these scrumptious brownies. Happy baking!