The aroma of peppermint hot cocoa brownie bars wafts through the air, creating a cozy embrace that warms both heart and soul. These delightful treats blend rich chocolate with a hint of refreshing peppermint, making each bite a festive celebration of flavors and textures.
Picture this: it’s a chilly winter evening, you’re bundled up in your favorite blanket, and the only thing missing is something sweet to savor alongside that cup of hot cocoa. Enter peppermint hot cocoa brownie bars—your new best friend during the holiday season. They are perfect for gatherings or quiet nights in, promising an unforgettable taste experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These peppermint hot cocoa brownie bars are easy to prepare, making them perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
- Their rich flavor profile combines chocolatey goodness with refreshing minty notes.
- The visual appeal is stunning, with a glossy chocolate topping that dazzles on any dessert table.
- These bars are versatile enough for holiday parties or simple family gatherings.
My family’s eyes lit up like Christmas lights the first time I served these brownie bars; they quickly devoured them and asked for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Dark Chocolate: Choose high-quality dark chocolate for a deep flavor; it makes all the difference in these rich brownies.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder balances out the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your preference for sugary treats.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness; melted butter ensures a fudgy texture.
Eggs: Large eggs add moisture and help bind the ingredients together; use room temperature for best results.
All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to your brownies; don’t overmix to keep them tender and fudgy.
Peppermint Extract: This key ingredient gives those delightful minty notes; use pure extract for optimal flavor.
Peppermint Candy Canes: Crushed candy canes provide crunch and festive flair; sprinkle them on top before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Peppermint Hot Cocoa Brownie Bars
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Melt Chocolate and Butter Together: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt dark chocolate and butter until smooth and glossy. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Mix Wet Ingredients: Remove from heat and whisk in granulated sugar until completely combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition before incorporating peppermint extract.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in cocoa powder and flour until just combined. Avoid overmixing to preserve your brownies’ fudgy texture.
Pour into Pan and Bake: Pour batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out slightly moist but not wet.
Create Topping While Baking: While brownies bake, crush peppermint candy canes into small pieces. Once brownies are done, let them cool slightly before adding toppings.
Add Toppings and Serve: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top while brownies are still warm. Slice into squares once cooled completely. Enjoy every delicious bite!
These peppermint hot cocoa brownie bars are sure to create sweet memories during the festive season! So gather around with friends or family, grab a cup of cocoa, and indulge in this delightful treat together.
You Must Know
- These Peppermint Hot Cocoa Brownie Bars are a delightful treat for the holidays.
- The combo of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a cozy vibe.
- Plus, they’re perfect for sharing—or hiding in your pantry for a midnight snack!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by melting your chocolate and butter together. While that cools, mix your dry ingredients separately. This sequence ensures smooth batter and perfectly baked brownie bars.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out dark chocolate for milk chocolate if you prefer sweeter brownies. You can also add crushed candy canes on top for extra crunch and holiday flair.
Storing & Reheating
Store these brownie bars in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness. If they last that long, reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy warm.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for richer flavor; it really elevates your brownies.
- Always measure your flour correctly; too much will lead to dry bars.
- Let the brownies cool completely before cutting; this prevents them from crumbling apart.
Sometimes, I make these Peppermint Hot Cocoa Brownie Bars just to see friends’ faces light up—they always request seconds (or thirds).
FAQ
What makes Peppermint Hot Cocoa Brownie Bars special?
The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a festive treat.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix dark, milk, or even white chocolate as you like.
How do I know when the brownie bars are done baking?
Insert a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.
Peppermint Hot Cocoa Brownie Bars
Indulge in the cozy flavors of peppermint hot cocoa brownie bars, where rich chocolate meets refreshing mint. Perfect for holiday gatherings or quiet evenings by the fire, these fudgy treats are a must-have this season. With a glossy topping and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, they offer a visual and taste sensation that will leave everyone asking for more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup dark chocolate (high-quality)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp pure peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy canes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a medium saucepan, melt dark chocolate and butter over low heat until smooth.
- Remove from heat; whisk in sugar until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in peppermint extract.
- Gently fold in cocoa powder and flour until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
- While baking, crush peppermint candy canes. Once brownies cool slightly, sprinkle them on top.
- Let cool completely before slicing into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie square (40g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: For sweeter brownies, substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate. Add extra crushed candy canes for more festive flair.
