One Bowl Peppermint Brownies Recipe
These One Bowl Peppermint Brownies are rich, fudgy chocolate brownies infused with refreshing peppermint extract and topped with a creamy peppermint chocolate ganache. Finished with crushed peppermint candies for a festive and crunchy garnish, this easy-to-make treat is perfect for holiday celebrations or any time you crave a delicious chocolate-mint dessert.
- Author: Sana
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Brownie Batter
- 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 all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp. espresso powder (optional)
Ganache
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp. peppermint extract
- 1 tsp. unsalted butter
- Pinch of salt
Garnish
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- 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. This should take about 1 minute 30 seconds total.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the cocoa powder, salt, and espresso powder if using. Mix until well combined.
- Add Sugars: Add both the granulated sugar and packed brown sugar to the chocolate mixture and stir well.
- Incorporate Eggs: Whisk in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Flavor with Peppermint and Oil: Whisk in the peppermint extract and vegetable oil until fully combined.
- Fold in Flour and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the flour and the remaining 3/4 cup chocolate chips just until combined, being careful not to overmix.
- 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. Avoid overbaking for fudgy texture.
- Cool: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare Ganache: Place 1 cup of chocolate chips in a medium heat-proof bowl and set aside. Warm the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until just warm; do not bring to a boil. Pour the warm cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 3-4 minutes to melt. Stir or whisk gently until smooth and creamy. Add the peppermint extract, butter, and a pinch of salt, stirring to combine.
- Frost Brownies: Spread the ganache evenly over the cooled brownies. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or candy canes on top for garnish.
- Set Ganache: Place the brownies in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the ganache to set firmly.
- Serve: Use a sharp knife to cut the brownies into squares for clean edges. Enjoy your peppermint brownies!
Notes
- For best results, avoid overbaking to maintain a fudgy brownie texture.
- Espresso powder is optional but enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Use good quality peppermint extract for a strong and authentic peppermint flavor.
- Allow ganache to fully set in the fridge before cutting to prevent smudging.
- Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep ganache firm.
Keywords: peppermint brownies, chocolate peppermint dessert, holiday brownies, chocolate peppermint ganache, festive brownies