One Bowl Peppermint Brownies Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate holiday dessert that’s as easy as it is indulgent, look no further than these One Bowl Peppermint Brownies. This recipe delivers rich, fudgy chocolate brownies swirled with cool peppermint in every bite, all topped with a silky ganache and a festive sparkle of crushed candy canes. It’s a game changer for chocolate lovers and peppermint fans alike—plus, everything comes together in a single bowl, which means less mess and more blissful brownie time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about what makes One Bowl Peppermint Brownies so special. You only need a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients, but each one plays an essential role—from the deep chocolate aroma to the distinctive peppermint zing and irresistible chewy crumb. Here’s everything you’ll use, with pro tips for the very best results.

• Butter, unsalted: Gives the brownies their signature richness and soft, tender crumb—make sure it’s unsalted to control the flavor perfectly.
• Chocolate chips (divided): A double-dose of chocolate is key; some get melted for extra fudginess, and some stay whole for gooey pockets in every bite.
• Cocoa powder: This is what makes the brownies deeply chocolatey without being heavy.
• Salt: Just a touch sharpens all the sweet flavors—don’t skip it!
• Sugar: Classic granulated sugar gives structure and sweetness.
• Brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor for ultra-chewy brownies.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help emulsify the batter for that shiny brownie top.
• Vegetable oil: Makes the brownies extra moist—just two tablespoons do the trick.
• Peppermint extract: Adds a cooling, festive kick that sets these brownies apart.
• Flour: Just enough to hold everything together while still keeping things gooey.
• Espresso powder (optional): Deepens the chocolate flavor mysteriously—try it if you love mocha vibes.
• Peppermint candies or candy canes, crushed: For garnish and a little crunch; they create that merry, wintry finish.
• Heavy cream: The secret to a perfectly glossy ganache topping that melts in your mouth.
• Butter, unsalted (for ganache): A teaspoon is all you need for added silkiness in the topping.
• Additional pinch of salt (for ganache): Balances the ganache and keeps everything from being too sweet.

How to Make One Bowl Peppermint Brownies

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Start by setting your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, greasing it lightly so nothing sticks. The parchment makes it effortless to lift out the brownies for neat, picture-perfect squares—trust me, your future self will thank you!

Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate

Grab your largest microwave-safe mixing bowl. Add 12 tablespoons of butter and 1/2 cup of chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until the mixture is fully melted and glossy. It should only take about 90 seconds in total—just enough to combine into a fragrant, chocolatey puddle.

Step 3: Whisk in Cocoa, Salt, and Coffee Power

While your chocolate is still warm, stir in the cocoa powder, salt, and (if you’re going for deep chocolate flavor) the espresso powder. Mixing them in now helps bloom the cocoa and disperse the flavors beautifully throughout the batter.

Step 4: Sweeten the Mix

Add both sugars—granulated white sugar and brown sugar—into the bowl. Stir until everything is fully combined. The result will look grainy but have patience; this is building your brownie texture for that perfect chew.

Step 5: Add Eggs, Oil, and Peppermint

Now, add your eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition so the mixture turns thick and glossy. Pour in the vegetable oil and peppermint extract, then give it all a good mix to keep everything light and shiny.

Step 6: Fold in Flour and Chocolate Chips

With a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold in the flour and the remaining chocolate chips. Stir just until you stop seeing streaks of flour—don’t overmix or your brownies will be tough. This is where the magic starts!

Step 7: Bake to Fudgy Perfection

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing out the top. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for the classic “few moist crumbs” test—a toothpick should come out with a bit of brownie on it, but not wet batter. This keeps the center gooey and irresistible.

Step 8: Cool Completely

As tempting as they smell, give the brownies time to cool in the pan. This patience pays off with cleaner cuts and the best texture once the ganache goes on top.

Step 9: Make the Peppermint Ganache

In a separate bowl, add one cup of chocolate chips. Warm the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until just barely simmering, then pour over the chocolate chips. Let the heat work its magic for 3-4 minutes before whisking to create a luscious, glossy ganache. Stir in peppermint extract, a teaspoon of butter, and a pinch of salt to make it extra velvety.

Step 10: Spread, Garnish, and Set

Smooth the peppermint ganache over your cooled brownies, spreading it edge to edge. Immediately scatter crushed peppermint candies or candy canes over the top for color, crunch, and cheer. Let the brownies chill in the fridge for at least an hour to set the ganache and make slicing easy.

Step 11: Slice and Enjoy

Once chilled, use a sharp knife (wiping clean between cuts is a pro move), slice the brownies into squares and admire your handiwork. One Bowl Peppermint Brownies are now ready to wow everyone around you!

How to Serve One Bowl Peppermint Brownies

Garnishes

The finishing touch of crushed peppermint candies is iconic—but you can dial up the festivity with a drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate, or a sprinkle of sparkling sanding sugar for added glitz. Fresh mint leaves piled gently on top can also make these brownies look especially elegant for a holiday dessert spread.

Side Dishes

Pair your One Bowl Peppermint Brownies with a scoop of classic vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Hot cocoa or a strong, dark coffee on the side is the ultimate winter treat, while fresh berries or a small fruit salad can offer a refreshing contrast to the brownies’ rich, minty chocolate.

Creative Ways to Present

These brownies love to shine at gatherings! Try stacking them in a pyramid on a cake stand for a show-stopping edible centerpiece, or wrap individual squares in parchment and red ribbon for sweet homemade gifts. For party platters, use small cookie cutters to turn brownies into festive shapes—stars or trees make for extra holiday fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Brownies keep beautifully at room temperature or in the fridge. Simply store your One Bowl Peppermint Brownies in an airtight container, where they’ll stay fudgy and fresh for up to four days. Layer with parchment paper if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing

You can freeze these brownies individually or in a block. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a couple hours.

Reheating

To enjoy that “just-baked” warmth, microwave individual brownie squares for about 10-15 seconds. This softens the ganache and brings out the peppermint aroma, making the experience as magical as the first day you baked them.

FAQs

Can I double the recipe for a bigger batch?

Absolutely! Double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. The baking time will need to be adjusted—expect a few extra minutes in the oven, but keep an eye on that toothpick test for doneness.

Is espresso powder necessary in One Bowl Peppermint Brownies?

Espresso powder is optional, but highly recommended because it dramatically enhances the depth of chocolate flavor without making the brownies taste like coffee. Don’t worry, it’s subtle—you’ll notice the chocolate is even more delicious!

How do I make my brownies extra fudgy?

For fudgier brownies, take care not to overbake and slightly under-measure the flour. Following the “moist crumbs” rule for doneness will give you that melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes One Bowl Peppermint Brownies legendary.

Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?

Peppermint oil is much more concentrated than extract—use it with caution, only a drop or two is needed. Too much will overpower the brownies, so be careful and taste your batter to get the balance just right.

What’s the best way to crush peppermint candies for garnish?

Place unwrapped candies or candy canes in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a sturdy glass. Keep the pieces a bit chunky for pretty texture, but avoid grinding them into powder.

Final Thoughts

If you adore chocolate and crave that minty-cool finish, you’ll love every moment making and sharing these One Bowl Peppermint Brownies. They’re easy, festive, and sure to become your new holiday (or anytime) go-to. So turn on your oven and treat yourself—you deserve this delicious simplicity!

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