These Peppermint Bark Brownies are rich, fudgy, chocolatey, and perfect for the holiday season. A soft brownie base loaded with chocolate chips is topped with smooth white chocolate and crushed peppermint candies for the ultimate Christmas dessert.
Every bite has the perfect mix of gooey chocolate, creamy white chocolate, and cool peppermint crunch. These brownies are festive enough for cookie trays, holiday parties, and Christmas dessert tables, but easy enough to make whenever you’re craving something sweet and minty.
Why You’ll Love These Peppermint Bark Brownies
- Rich, fudgy brownie base
- Topped with creamy white chocolate
- Finished with crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
- Perfect for Christmas and holiday baking
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Great for cookie trays and dessert boxes
- Can be made with homemade or boxed brownie mix
What Makes These Brownies Special?
These brownies combine two holiday favorites: fudgy chocolate brownies and peppermint bark.
The brownie layer is soft and gooey with plenty of chocolate chips. Once baked and cooled, it gets covered with melted white chocolate and a generous sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy. The result is festive, beautiful, and full of chocolate peppermint flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract, optional
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil or shortening
- ⅓ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
How to Make Peppermint Bark Brownies
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil. Lightly grease if using foil.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until the yolks break.
Add the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract if using.
Mix until smooth and combined.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients.
Fold gently with a spatula until just combined.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips
Fold the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the brownie batter.
Do not overmix.
Step 5: Bake the Brownies
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Spread it evenly with a spatula.
Bake for 25 to 28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with fudgy crumbs but no wet batter.
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
Step 6: Make the White Chocolate Topping
Place the white chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl.
Microwave at half power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth and melted.
Step 7: Add the Peppermint Bark Layer
Pour the melted white chocolate over the cooled brownies.
Spread evenly from the center toward the edges.
Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the top.
Step 8: Chill and Slice
Place the brownies in the refrigerator for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the white chocolate topping is set.
Slice into squares and serve.
Tips for the Best Peppermint Bark Brownies
Use Unsalted Butter
Unsalted butter gives you better control over the flavor and salt level.
Don’t Overbake
For fudgy brownies, remove them from the oven when the center is just set and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
Cool Before Topping
The brownies must be cooled before adding the white chocolate, or the topping may melt into the brownie layer.
Melt White Chocolate Slowly
White chocolate can burn easily, so melt it gently at half power and stir often.
Use Crushed Candy Canes
Candy canes add a festive look and classic peppermint crunch.
Can I Use Boxed Brownie Mix?
Yes. You can use your favorite boxed brownie mix as the base.
Prepare the brownie batter according to the package instructions. Add chocolate chips and peppermint extract if desired. Bake as directed, cool completely, then add the white chocolate and crushed peppermint topping.
Variations
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Brownies
Use dark chocolate chips in the brownie batter for a deeper chocolate flavor.
Extra Minty Brownies
Add a little extra peppermint extract to the batter, but be careful because peppermint extract is strong.
Oreo Peppermint Brownies
Fold chopped Oreos into the brownie batter before baking.
Double Chocolate Version
Drizzle melted semi-sweet chocolate over the white chocolate layer.
Nutty Peppermint Brownies
Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch.
Storage Instructions
Store peppermint bark brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer freshness, refrigerate for 4 to 5 days.
Let chilled brownies sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Freezing Instructions
Freeze the brownies in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make These Brownies Ahead of Time?
Yes. These brownies are great for making ahead because the topping sets well and the flavor stays delicious.
Can I Skip Peppermint Extract?
Yes. The crushed peppermint candies add plenty of peppermint flavor on their own.
Can I Use Milk Chocolate Instead of White Chocolate?
Yes, but white chocolate gives the brownies the classic peppermint bark look and flavor.
Why Did My White Chocolate Seize?
White chocolate can seize if overheated or if water gets into it. Melt slowly and use a dry spoon when stirring.
How Do I Cut Clean Brownie Squares?
Chill the brownies until the topping is firm, then use a sharp knife. Wipe the knife clean between cuts.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 12 brownies
Final Thoughts
These Peppermint Bark Brownies are the perfect holiday dessert for anyone who loves chocolate and peppermint together. The fudgy brownie base, creamy white chocolate topping, and crunchy peppermint pieces make every bite festive and delicious.
They are simple to prepare, beautiful to serve, and guaranteed to bring Christmas flavor to any dessert table.