Peppermint Bark Brownies Recipe: 5 Easy Steps for Christmas Magic

Nothing captures the spirit of Christmas quite like the heavenly combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint. These peppermint bark brownies bring together two beloved holiday treats in one spectacular dessert that will have everyone reaching for seconds. With a fudgy brownie base, a smooth white chocolate layer, and a festive candy cane topping, this recipe transforms ordinary brownies into an extraordinary seasonal showstopper. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, preparing treats for a cookie exchange, or simply craving something special during the winter season, these peppermint bark brownies deliver bakery-quality results right from your home kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These brownies offer the perfect marriage of textures and flavors that make holiday baking so memorable. The dense, chocolatey brownie layer provides a rich foundation that contrasts beautifully with the creamy white chocolate topping. The crushed candy canes add a delightful crunch and that signature peppermint flavor that instantly evokes cozy Christmas memories.

What makes this recipe particularly appealing is its approachable method. You don’t need any specialized equipment or advanced baking skills to create these impressive treats. The brownie base comes together in one bowl, and the peppermint bark topping requires just a few simple steps. Yet the final result looks like something straight from a gourmet chocolate shop.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Brownie Layer

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

For the Peppermint Bark Topping

• 12 ounces white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 3/4 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for decoration)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing Your Workspace

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment paper with butter or cooking spray.

Making the Brownie Base

Begin by melting the butter in a large microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop. Once melted, whisk in the sugar until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and glossy. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. This step ensures there are no lumps and helps create a smooth batter. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which can lead to tough brownies.

Baking the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly to the edges. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. The top should look set and may have a slight sheen. Remember that brownies continue cooking slightly as they cool, so slightly underbaking ensures a fudgy texture.

Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before adding the topping. This cooling period is crucial because adding the white chocolate to warm brownies will cause it to melt unevenly.

Creating the Peppermint Bark Topping

While the brownies cool, crush your candy canes. Place them in a sealed plastic bag and use a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan to break them into small pieces. You want a mix of fine crumbs and slightly larger chunks for the best texture.

Melt the white chocolate using a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Once completely smooth, stir in the peppermint extract. Pour the melted white chocolate over the cooled brownies, using an offset spatula to spread it evenly across the entire surface.

Immediately sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the white chocolate layer, pressing them gently so they adhere. If using mini chocolate chips, scatter them over the top as well for extra visual appeal.

Setting and Cutting

Refrigerate the brownies for at least one hour to allow the white chocolate to set completely. Once firm, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire brownie slab out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut into squares. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for the neatest edges.

Expert Tips for Success

The quality of your cocoa powder makes a noticeable difference in these brownies. Dutch-processed cocoa creates a deeper, more sophisticated chocolate flavor, while natural cocoa powder offers a brighter, more acidic taste. Either works beautifully in this recipe.

When melting white chocolate, patience is key. White chocolate scorches more easily than dark chocolate, so use low heat and stir frequently. If it becomes grainy or seizes, it cannot be salvaged, so take your time with this step.

For perfectly fudgy brownies, err on the side of slight underbaking. The toothpick test should reveal moist crumbs, not wet batter or completely clean surfaces.

Delicious Variations to Try

Transform these brownies by swirling some of the melted white chocolate into the brownie batter before baking for a marbled effect. You can also add chocolate chips to the brownie layer for extra richness.

For a more intense peppermint flavor, add half a teaspoon of peppermint extract directly to the brownie batter. If you prefer a milder mint presence, reduce the peppermint extract in the white chocolate layer or use fewer crushed candy canes.

Consider drizzling melted dark chocolate over the finished peppermint bark layer for a stunning presentation that adds another dimension of flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Store these peppermint bark brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to one week. The white chocolate topping stays firm and beautiful when properly stored.

These brownies freeze exceptionally well. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving.

You can bake the brownie base up to two days in advance, keeping it tightly wrapped at room temperature. Add the peppermint bark topping on the day you plan to serve or gift them for the freshest appearance.

Serving Suggestions

These festive brownies shine as part of a holiday dessert spread. Arrange them on a beautiful platter alongside other Christmas treats like sugar cookies, fudge, and gingerbread. They also make wonderful gifts when packaged in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon.

Serve these brownies with a cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea for an extra-special holiday moment. For an indulgent dessert, warm a brownie slightly and top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Nutrition Information

Per serving (based on 24 brownies):

• Calories: 245
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 85mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 33g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 26g
• Protein: 3g

Note that nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

These peppermint bark brownies represent everything we love about holiday baking: they’re beautiful, delicious, and filled with seasonal cheer. The combination of fudgy chocolate brownies with crisp peppermint bark topping creates a dessert that tastes as impressive as it looks. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting your holiday baking journey, this recipe delivers consistent, crowd-pleasing results every time. The festive red and white candy cane pieces scattered across the glossy white chocolate make each square a miniature celebration. As you gather with loved ones this Christmas season, let these peppermint bark brownies become part of your treasured holiday traditions. With their irresistible flavor and stunning presentation, they’re destined to become a recipe you return to year after year.