There’s something undeniably magical about holiday baking—when the scent of chocolate and peppermint wafts through the kitchen, signaling the start of the festive season. A From Scratch Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe brings that classic blend of rich cocoa and cool peppermint into every bite, creating pure Christmas nostalgia. This guide walks you through everything you need to know: the story behind these scrumptious Christmas Brownies, detailed ingredients, easy step-by-step directions, essential baking tools, decorating ideas, storage tips, and frequently asked questions. Whether you call them Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe From Scratch or Peppermint Fudge Brownies Recipe, they’ll become a seasonal favorite in no time.
A Sweet Memory That Started It All
It all began on a snowy December evening when my kitchen turned into a wonderland of chocolate and peppermint aromas. The first time I made this Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe From Scratch, I can still recall the sound of candy canes gently cracking under my rolling pin and the sight of glossy melted chocolate swirling in the bowl. Those Holiday Brownies became an instant family tradition. Each year, we’d gather around to bake them, laughing as we dusted our aprons with cocoa powder and sneaked tastes of warm brownie batter. The combination of the fudgy base and the crisp peppermint crunch instantly transports me back to those cozy evenings surrounded by twinkling lights and holiday music. What started as a simple baking experiment quickly evolved into a cherished ritual that captures the essence of homemade Christmas joy.
This nostalgic recipe is more than just dessert—it represents togetherness, comfort, and creativity. There’s something soothing about preparing the layers, watching the chocolate melt into silky smoothness, and listening to the gentle hum of the oven while snow falls outside. Each batch of these Holiday Brownies brings that sense of festive magic alive again, reminding us why handmade treats taste so much better when shared with love.
What sets this Peppermint Fudge Brownies Recipe apart from others is its commitment to being truly handcrafted. Every layer is built from scratch, starting with a dense, rich chocolate base made from real butter, premium cocoa powder, and melted dark chocolate. Once baked, the brownies are topped with a smooth white chocolate peppermint bark layer that provides a delicate contrast to the deep fudgy center. Crushed candy canes add sparkle, texture, and that signature peppermint burst that makes each bite irresistible.
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From Scratch Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 brownies 1x
Description
These homemade peppermint bark brownies combine a rich fudgy chocolate base with a creamy white chocolate peppermint bark topping. Perfect for holiday gift giving or festive gatherings, they deliver a classic mint-chocolate flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Melt dark chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Whisk granulated and brown sugar into the melted chocolate until fully combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract until the batter is glossy.
5. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then fold gently into the chocolate mixture until just combined.
6. Pour batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and bake for 28–32 minutes until a toothpick yields moist crumbs.
7. Let brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, about 60 minutes.
8. Melt white chocolate over simmering water, stir in peppermint extract, then spread evenly over cooled brownies.
9. Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the white chocolate layer and drizzle with melted dark chocolate if desired.
10. Refrigerate for 30–45 minutes until the topping is firm, then lift out with parchment overhang and cut into squares.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 7
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 55
Keywords: peppermint bark brownies, fudge brownies, christmas brownies, holiday brownies, homemade brownies, peppermint brownies
Why This Peppermint Fudge Brownies Recipe Stands Out
Unlike boxed mixes or store-bought bars, these Peppermint Brownies deliver an authentic homemade taste that feels perfect for any celebration. The balance of flavors—sweet, minty, and slightly bitter from pure chocolate—creates a sophisticated dessert that still captures the playful spirit of Christmas Brownies. They make wonderful gifts wrapped in festive tins or stacked neatly in clear treat bags tied with a red ribbon. You can even bake them as part of a holiday dessert spread, pairing beautifully with mugs of cocoa or coffee by the fire.
What’s truly special about this recipe is its versatility. It’s impressive enough for parties yet simple enough for a quiet baking day at home. Whether you’re starting a new family tradition or adding a twist to your go-to brownie recipe, this Peppermint Fudge Brownies Recipe offers that ideal blend of nostalgia, flavor, and holiday cheer—making it the perfect sweet memory in the making.
What You’ll Need—Ingredients List
Creating a From Scratch Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe is all about layering deep, rich chocolate with bright peppermint flavor and crisp candy cane texture. To make sure your From Scratch Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe turns out perfectly every time, start with high‑quality ingredients and precise measurements.
Brownie Base
- 1 cup (2 sticks / 8 oz) unsalted butter
- 6 oz dark or semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Peppermint Bark Layer
- 12 oz white chocolate, finely chopped or chips
- 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- 3–4 peppermint candy canes, crushed (about ½ cup)
Final Toppings
- Extra drizzle of melted dark chocolate (optional)
- Additional crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
When sourcing ingredients, aim for premium cocoa powder and pure peppermint extract for richer flavor. With these quality components, your From Scratch Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe will have a professional texture and beautiful finish every time.
Tools and Tips for a Smooth Baking Experience
Essential Tools
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Whisk and silicone spatula
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Offset spatula or spreader
- Kitchen scale (optional)
- Double boiler or heatproof bowl over simmering water
Pro Tips for Flawless Baking
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) for even texture throughout your Holiday Brownies.
- Use room‑temperature eggs to create a smooth batter.
- Don’t overmix once the flour is added—keep brownies fudgy.
- Check doneness early; moist crumbs mean perfect texture.
- Cool fully before topping to protect the peppermint bark layer.
- Crush candy canes gently for balanced crunch and presentation.
How to Bake & Decorate Peppermint Bark Brownies
Baking the Fudgy Brownie Base
- Melt the Butter and Chocolate: Combine dark chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Stir until glossy and smooth, then let cool slightly.
- Whisk in the Sugars: Add granulated and brown sugars; mix until fully dissolved.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Whisk in the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract until thick and silky.
- Fold in Dry Ingredients: Sift together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Fold gently into the chocolate mixture until just combined.
- Pour and Smooth: Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, spread batter evenly, and tap to release air bubbles.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 28–32 minutes. A toothpick should emerge with moist crumbs.
- Cool: Let brownies rest on a wire rack for at least one hour before topping.
With a rich aroma and deep chocolate sheen, these Christmas Brownies are indulgent even before adding the peppermint bark layer.
Adding the Peppermint Bark Layer & Toppings
- Melt White Chocolate: Gently melt chopped white chocolate over simmering water until smooth.
- Add Peppermint Extract: Stir in peppermint extract for a bright minty finish.
- Spread Evenly: Pour over cooled brownies, smoothing to edges with an offset spatula.
- Sprinkle Candy Canes: Top immediately with crushed candy canes and, optionally, drizzle with dark chocolate for contrast.
- Chill: Refrigerate 30–45 minutes until set.
- Cut and Serve: Slice with a warm knife into neat squares or bars.
| Step | Chill Time | Result/Serving Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Cool Brownies Before Bark | 60 minutes | Prevents melting and uneven surface |
| Set Peppermint Bark Layer | 30–45 minutes | Creates a firm, glossy topping |
| Slice & Serve | Immediate | Perfect texture and presentation |
Your finished Peppermint Brownies shine with bright peppermint shards and a smooth, glossy bark. Each piece offers the ideal contrast of creamy white chocolate and dense fudge—the ultimate Peppermint Fudge Brownies Recipe for any festive celebration.
Serving & Storage Tips for Holiday Brownies
Once the Holiday Brownies are set and sliced, store them properly to lock in freshness and flavor. Because the Christmas Brownies Recipe features real chocolate, maintaining temperature consistency is key.
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container layered with parchment for up to three days.
Refrigerated: Keep for a week to preserve the firm peppermint bark layer, bringing to room temperature before serving.
Frozen: Wrap individually, seal in freezer bags, and store up to three months. Thaw before serving.
Gift Ideas: Wrap squares in parchment tied with ribbon, or place them in decorative tins or kraft boxes lined with tissue paper. Label them “Handmade Christmas Brownies” to add a personal touch that warms every heart.
FAQs & Final Thoughts
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes. Bake the base a day ahead or freeze the brownies before topping. Finish with peppermint bark right before gifting or serving. This From Scratch Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe is ideal for stress-free holiday prep.
How can I prevent the peppermint bark layer from cracking?
Spread the bark over completely cooled brownies and chill just until firm. Use a warm, clean knife for smooth slices in your Peppermint Fudge Brownies Recipe.
Can I substitute dark chocolate or gluten-free flour?
Certainly! Opt for dark chocolate for a richer bite or use a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend containing xanthan gum. The texture remains deliciously fudgy and indulgent.
How can I enhance the flavor even more?
Add a pinch of espresso powder to amplify chocolate depth or fold crushed peppermint bits into the batter for extra crunch and visual flair.
Holiday baking is more than a kitchen task—it’s a joyful ritual that brings families together. This From Scratch Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe embodies that spirit, blending nostalgia, flavor, and creativity into every chewy square. Whether gifted, shared, or enjoyed by the fire, these Peppermint Fudge Brownies Recipe bars promise festive warmth in every bite.
