Peppermint Patty Brownies: A Decadent Holiday Treat
These Peppermint Patty Brownies are the perfect indulgent treat for the holiday season or any time you’re craving a rich chocolatey brownie with a refreshing minty twist. Imagine a fudgy, decadent brownie base, topped with a creamy, smooth peppermint layer, and finished with a glossy chocolate ganache. These brownies are surprisingly easy to make and are guaranteed to impress anyone who tries them. This recipe walks you through each step with detailed instructions, ensuring a perfect batch every time.
## Why You’ll Love These Peppermint Patty Brownies
* **Fudgy and Decadent:** The brownie base is incredibly fudgy and rich, providing the perfect canvas for the peppermint layer.
* **Minty Freshness:** The peppermint layer adds a refreshing coolness that complements the rich chocolate beautifully.
* **Easy to Make:** Despite their impressive appearance, these brownies are surprisingly simple to make with readily available ingredients.
* **Perfect for the Holidays:** The combination of chocolate and peppermint screams holiday cheer, making them a perfect addition to any festive gathering.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** These brownies can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for busy schedules.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need for each layer of these delicious Peppermint Patty Brownies:
**For the Brownie Layer:**
* **1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted Butter:** Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the brownies. Make sure it’s melted.
* **1 cup Granulated Sugar:** Adds sweetness and helps create a moist texture.
* **1 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder:** Provides the rich chocolate flavor. Use a high-quality cocoa powder for the best results.
* **1/4 teaspoon Salt:** Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
* **1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract:** Adds a touch of warmth and enhances the chocolate flavor.
* **2 Large Eggs:** Help bind the ingredients and contribute to the brownie’s structure.
* **1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour:** Provides structure and helps create a tender crumb.
**For the Peppermint Layer:**
* **6 cups Powdered Sugar:** Forms the base of the peppermint layer and provides sweetness.
* **1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted Butter, Softened:** Creates a creamy and smooth texture for the peppermint layer. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature.
* **1/2 cup Heavy Cream:** Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
* **1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract:** Provides the signature peppermint flavor. Start with 1 teaspoon and add more to taste.
* **1/4 teaspoon Salt:** Balances the sweetness of the powdered sugar.
* **Green Food Coloring (optional):** To give the peppermint layer a festive green color.
**For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:**
* **1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips:** Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor.
* **1/2 cup Heavy Cream:** Creates a smooth and glossy ganache.
**Optional Garnish:**
* **Crushed Peppermint Candies:** Adds a festive touch and extra peppermint flavor.
## Equipment You’ll Need
* **9×13 inch Baking Pan:** This is the ideal size for this recipe.
* **Parchment Paper:** To line the baking pan for easy removal.
* **Mixing Bowls:** For mixing the brownie batter and peppermint layer.
* **Electric Mixer:** A stand mixer or hand mixer will make the process easier.
* **Rubber Spatula:** For scraping down the sides of the bowls and spreading the batter and peppermint layer.
* **Saucepan:** For making the chocolate ganache.
* **Whisk:** For stirring the chocolate ganache.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get started on making these delicious Peppermint Patty Brownies!
**Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan**
* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will make it easy to lift the brownies out of the pan once they’re cooled.
**Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter**
* In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter. You can do this in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or in a saucepan over low heat. Be careful not to burn the butter.
* Once the butter is melted, whisk in the granulated sugar and cocoa powder until well combined. The mixture will be thick and pasty.
* Add the salt and vanilla extract and stir to combine.
* Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough brownies.
* Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix. The batter should be thick and fudgy.
**Step 3: Bake the Brownies**
* Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
* Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake, as this will result in dry brownies.
* Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before adding the peppermint layer. This is important to prevent the peppermint layer from melting.
**Step 4: Make the Peppermint Layer**
* In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
* Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
* Add the heavy cream, peppermint extract, and salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
* If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring and mix until evenly colored. Be careful not to add too much, as this can affect the flavor.
**Step 5: Assemble the Brownies**
* Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the peppermint layer evenly over the top.
* Place the brownies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the peppermint layer to firm up.
**Step 6: Make the Chocolate Ganache**
* In a heatproof bowl, place the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
* In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
* Pour the hot heavy cream over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 1 minute to soften the chocolate.
* Whisk gently until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth and glossy.
**Step 7: Finish the Brownies**
* Pour the chocolate ganache over the peppermint layer and spread it evenly.
* If desired, sprinkle the top with crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch.
* Place the brownies back in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the ganache to set.
**Step 8: Cut and Serve**
* Once the brownies are set, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
* Cut the brownies into squares and serve.
* Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
## Tips for Perfect Peppermint Patty Brownies
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** Using high-quality ingredients, especially the chocolate and cocoa powder, will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of your brownies.
* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaking the brownies will result in a dry, crumbly texture. Bake them until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.
* **Cool Completely:** Make sure the brownies are completely cooled before adding the peppermint layer. This will prevent the peppermint layer from melting.
* **Soften the Butter:** Ensure the butter for the peppermint layer is softened to room temperature. This will help create a smooth and creamy texture.
* **Adjust the Peppermint Extract:** Adjust the amount of peppermint extract to your liking. Start with 1 teaspoon and add more to taste.
* **Refrigerate for Best Results:** Refrigerating the brownies allows the peppermint layer and ganache to set properly, resulting in cleaner cuts and a more enjoyable texture.
* **Use a Hot Knife:** To get clean cuts, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it dry before each cut.
## Variations and Substitutions
* **Different Extracts:** Experiment with other extracts, such as vanilla, almond, or orange, in the peppermint layer.
* **Different Chocolate:** Use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate chips for the ganache.
* **Nuts:** Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the brownie batter or sprinkle them on top of the ganache.
* **Candy Canes:** Use crushed candy canes instead of peppermint candies for a more intense peppermint flavor.
* **Gluten-Free:** Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
* **Dairy-Free:** Use dairy-free butter, heavy cream, and chocolate chips for a dairy-free version.
## Serving Suggestions
* **Enjoy them chilled:** These brownies are best served chilled.
* **Pair with Ice Cream:** Serve them with a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream for an extra decadent treat.
* **Coffee or Hot Chocolate:** Enjoy them with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
* **Gift Giving:** Package them in a decorative box or tin to give as a thoughtful gift.
## Storage Instructions
* **Refrigerator:** Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
* **Freezer:** Freeze brownies for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
* Calories: 450-550
* Fat: 25-35g
* Saturated Fat: 15-20g
* Cholesterol: 75-100mg
* Sodium: 150-200mg
* Carbohydrates: 50-60g
* Sugar: 40-50g
* Protein: 5-7g
**Note:** Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**Q: Can I make these brownies ahead of time?**
A: Yes, these brownies can be made ahead of time. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
**Q: Can I use a different size baking pan?**
A: While a 9×13 inch baking pan is recommended, you can use an 8×8 inch or 9×9 inch pan. However, the brownies will be thicker and may require a longer baking time. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
**Q: Can I use a different type of chocolate chips for the ganache?**
A: Yes, you can use any type of chocolate chips you prefer, such as milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate.
**Q: Can I omit the peppermint extract?**
A: Yes, you can omit the peppermint extract if you don’t like peppermint. However, the brownies will no longer be Peppermint Patty Brownies. You could substitute it with vanilla extract or another flavor of your choice.
**Q: My peppermint layer is too soft. What did I do wrong?**
A: The peppermint layer may be too soft if the butter was not softened enough or if too much heavy cream was added. Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature and measure the heavy cream accurately. You can also try chilling the peppermint layer in the refrigerator for a longer period of time.
**Q: My ganache is too thick. What did I do wrong?**
A: The ganache may be too thick if too much chocolate was used or if the heavy cream was not heated enough. Make sure to use the correct amount of chocolate and heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer.
## Conclusion
These Peppermint Patty Brownies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With their fudgy brownie base, refreshing peppermint layer, and decadent chocolate ganache, they’re the perfect treat for the holidays or any time you’re craving something special. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy these delicious brownies with your friends and family!