One Bowl Peppermint Brownies

These One Bowl Peppermint Brownies are a delightful treat that brings together rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint in a simple, straightforward recipe. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these brownies are fudgy, easy to make, and topped with a luscious chocolate ganache and crunchy peppermint pieces. With their festive flair and mouth-watering flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite for all occasions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Whip up these brownies in just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and chocolate chips creates an intense chocolate experience.
• Festive Touch: Topped with crushed peppermint, these brownies are visually appealing and perfect for the holidays.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them at parties, gatherings, or as a cozy dessert at home.
• Decadent Ganache: The smooth chocolate ganache elevates the overall taste, making it truly decadent.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious One Bowl Peppermint Brownies, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk
• Baking pan (8×8 inch)
• Parchment paper
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without worrying about spills.
• Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that your ingredients are well blended for a smooth batter.

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Ingredients

For these One Bowl Peppermint Brownies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Brownies:

• 12 Tbsp. butter, unsalted
• 1 1/4 cups chocolate chips, divided
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed (light or dark)
• 3 large eggs
• 2 Tbsp. vegetable oil
• 1 tsp. peppermint extract
• 3/4 cup flour
• 1 1/2 tsp. espresso powder (optional)
• Peppermint Candies/Candy Canes, crushed for garnish

For the Ganache:

• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp. peppermint extract
• 1 tsp. butter, unsalted
• pinch of salt

How to Make One Bowl Peppermint Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Grease and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the brownies later.

Step 3: Melt Butter and Chocolate

In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and ½ cup of the chocolate chips. Melt them together in the microwave using 30-second increments. Stir in between until fully melted; this should take no longer than 1 minute and 30 seconds.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Once melted, add in cocoa powder, salt, and espresso powder if you’re using it. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Mix in Sugars

Add both white sugar and brown sugar into the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Incorporate Eggs

Whisk in each egg one at a time until fully incorporated into the batter.

Step 7: Add Flavorings

Stir in peppermint extract and vegetable oil until smooth.

Step 8: Fold in Flour & Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in flour and remaining chocolate chips just until combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 9: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Bake for about 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 10: Cool Completely

Allow brownies to cool completely before adding ganache.

Step 11: Make Ganache

For the ganache, place additional chocolate chips in a medium heat-proof bowl. Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until warm (do not boil). Pour warm cream over the chocolate chips; let sit for about 3–4 minutes before stirring until smooth. Add peppermint extract, butter, and salt; mix again until creamy.

Step 12: Apply Ganache & Garnish

Spread the ganache evenly over cooled brownies and top with crushed peppermint candies or candy canes.

Step 13: Chill

Place brownies in fridge for at least one hour for ganache to set properly.

Step 14: Serve

Cut into squares using a sharp knife for clean cuts. Serve fresh or store in an airtight container!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious One Bowl Peppermint Brownies! Whether it’s during holiday celebrations or just as an everyday treat, they promise indulgence in every bite!

How to Serve One Bowl Peppermint Brownies

These delightful One Bowl Peppermint Brownies can be served in various ways, making them a versatile treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your brownie experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each brownie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added creaminess and contrast to the chocolatey base.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream. The cold ice cream melts slightly into the fudgy brownie, creating an indulgent dessert.

Garnished with Fresh Mint

• Add fresh mint leaves on top for a burst of color and an extra hint of peppermint flavor.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• For an extra layer of sweetness, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the brownies before serving.

Accompanied by Hot Chocolate

• Pair these brownies with a mug of rich hot chocolate, perfect for chilly nights and special gatherings.

How to Perfect One Bowl Peppermint Brownies

To make your One Bowl Peppermint Brownies truly exceptional, consider these handy tips. Following these suggestions will ensure your brownies turn out fudgy, flavorful, and festive!

• Use Quality Chocolate: Choosing high-quality chocolate chips enhances the overall flavor and richness of your brownies.

• Watch the Baking Time: For fudgy brownies, bake until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs. Overbaking will lead to dry brownies.

• Cool Completely Before Topping: Allowing your brownies to cool completely ensures that the ganache sets beautifully without sliding off.

• Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to add nuts or other candies into the batter for texture and flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for One Bowl Peppermint Brownies

One Bowl Peppermint Brownies can be complemented by several delightful side dishes. These pairings enhance the dessert experience and add variety to your spread.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances the rich chocolate flavor with creamy sweetness.
2. Peppermint Hot Chocolate: A warm beverage infused with peppermint that ties in perfectly with the brownie’s flavors.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the dense brownies.
4. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce adds extra richness and decadence.
5. Cheesecake Bites: Small cheesecake squares offer a creamy alternative that pairs well with the fudgy texture.
6. Coffee or Espresso: A cup of coffee enhances the chocolate notes in the brownies and pairs well after dinner.
7. Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy side of mixed nuts provides an interesting textural contrast to soft brownies.
8. Milkshake: A peppermint-flavored milkshake is a fun and festive drink that complements your dessert beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Bowl Peppermint Brownies, it’s easy to overlook some essential details. Here are common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

• Boldly Overbaking: Baking the brownies too long can lead to a dry texture. Aim for a toothpick that comes out with a few moist crumbs.
• Boldly Skipping the Cooling: Cutting brownies before they cool completely can result in messy squares. Let them cool for at least an hour before slicing.
• Boldly Ignoring the Ganache: Not allowing the ganache to set in the fridge can make it runny. Chill for at least an hour for the best results.
• Boldly Underestimating Peppermint Flavor: Using too little peppermint extract may yield a bland flavor. Follow the recipe for a balanced taste.
• Boldly Misplacing Ingredients: Adding ingredients out of order can affect texture. Follow the steps closely for perfect brownies.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your One Bowl Peppermint Brownies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing One Bowl Peppermint Brownies

• Cut brownies into squares before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating One Bowl Peppermint Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm brownies for about 10 minutes until they are just heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual squares on medium power for 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place brownie squares in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about One Bowl Peppermint Brownies.

How do I enhance the flavor of One Bowl Peppermint Brownies?

Adding more peppermint extract can intensify the flavor. You can also mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added richness.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?

Yes, using dark chocolate will provide a richer taste. Just adjust the sugar if desired.

What if I don’t have espresso powder?

Espresso powder is optional, but it enhances chocolate flavor. You can omit it without affecting your One Bowl Peppermint Brownies significantly.

How long do One Bowl Peppermint Brownies last?

These brownies last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months when frozen if stored properly.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blend to enjoy this delicious treat without gluten.

Final Thoughts

One Bowl Peppermint Brownies are not only simple to prepare but also scrumptiously fudgy and festive! This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or any sweet occasion. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or varying the type of chocolate used. Try this delightful dessert today!