Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it gives me a brownie that’s both dense and luxurious, with a refreshing peppermint twist. I like how each layer adds something special: the fudgy brownie base, the creamy peppermint frosting, and the silky chocolate ganache. They’re easy to assemble, yet impressive enough for parties or gifting.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Brownies:
cooking spray
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups white sugar
3/4 cup cocoa powder
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon peppermint extract

Peppermint Frosting:
1/4 cup unsalted butter
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk (Optional)
1 1/2 teaspoons peppermint extract
1 drop red food coloring, or as needed
1 teaspoon milk (Optional)

Chocolate Ganache:
1 cup whipping cream
1/4 cup unsalted butter
10 (1 ounce) squares bittersweet chocolate, chopped

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a 9-inch square baking pan with cooking spray.

2. In one bowl, I combine the flour and salt. In another, I mix the sugar and cocoa powder, then add the melted butter and beat until well combined. I mix in the eggs and peppermint extract, then gently fold in the flour mixture until just combined. I pour the batter into the prepared pan.

3. I bake the brownies for 40 to 50 minutes, until the top looks dry and the edges pull slightly from the sides. I let them cool for about 20 minutes.

4. While they cool, I cream the butter for the frosting. I slowly add the powdered sugar, about 1/2 cup at a time. I add 1 tablespoon milk (if using), the peppermint extract, and the red food coloring. If the frosting feels too thick, I add another teaspoon of milk. I spread the frosting onto the cooled brownies and place the pan in the fridge to set.

5. For the ganache, I heat the cream and butter in a saucepan over low heat until simmering. I remove it from the heat, stir in the chopped chocolate, and mix until smooth. I place the ganache in the freezer for about 35 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes so it doesn’t harden unevenly.

6. When the ganache is thick but spreadable, I spread it over the frosted brownies.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 16 brownies. I usually spend about 10 minutes prepping, 45 minutes baking, and allow around 35 minutes of cooling and setting time, making the total about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes top the brownies with crushed candy canes for a festive crunch. When I want deeper chocolate flavor, I use dark cocoa powder or add mini chocolate chips to the batter. For a softer peppermint flavor, I reduce the extract slightly or skip the red coloring for a classic white frosting.

Storage/Reheating

I store these brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They also freeze beautifully—I wrap them individually and thaw them in the fridge when I’m ready to enjoy one. Since they’re frosted and topped with ganache, I don’t reheat them; I serve them chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

How do I know when the brownies are done?

I look for dry edges and a firm top; a toothpick may still come out slightly fudgy.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but I reduce the added salt in the flour mixture.

Can I skip the frosting or the ganache?

Yes, I can make them with just one topping or leave them plain.

Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?

Yes, but I use only a tiny amount—peppermint oil is much stronger.

Why is my frosting too thick?

I add a teaspoon of milk at a time until it spreads smoothly.

Why did my ganache harden too much?

It may have chilled too long; I let it sit at room temperature and stir until spreadable.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, I use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I add mix-ins?

Absolutely. I enjoy crushed peppermint pieces or chocolate chunks.

Can I use semisweet chocolate instead of bittersweet?

Yes, it will make the ganache slightly sweeter.

Do these brownies freeze well?

Yes, I wrap them tightly and freeze them for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

I love how these Peppermint Brownies combine rich chocolate, cool peppermint, and luscious ganache into one irresistible treat. They’re festive, decadent, and always a crowd-pleaser—perfect for holidays or any time I want something indulgent and refreshing.