If you love a sweet treat that combines rich chocolate, cool mint, and a creamy texture, you are going to fall head over heels for this Decadent Layered Peppermint Brownies Recipe. This dessert is a sensational blend of fudgy brownies, a luscious peppermint cream filling, and a silky chocolate ganache topped with festive crushed peppermint candies. It’s not just any brownie—you’ll find layers of flavor and texture that make every bite an absolute delight. Whether you’re serving these for the holidays or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe is guaranteed to wow your friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might be simple, but each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of rich, creamy, and minty flavors and that irresistible fudgy texture you’ll adore.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, melted): Adds moisture and richness, creating a tender crumb in the brownies.
- Granulated sugar (1 ½ cups): Sweetens the batter and contributes to the fudgy texture.
- Large eggs (4): Provide structure and help bind the ingredients for that perfect brownie chew.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances the chocolate flavor with a warm, aromatic undertone.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): The base that gives structure without making the brownies cakey.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (¾ cup): Delivers deep chocolate flavor and rich color.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate notes.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Creates the luscious, creamy peppermint filling that’s smooth and tangy.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese layer to a perfect spreadable consistency.
- Peppermint extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses a refreshing minty burst that gives these brownies their signature flavor.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): Used to make the silky chocolate ganache that seals in all the flavors.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 ½ cups): The rich chocolate base for the ganache that adds a glossy finish.
- Crushed peppermint candies (½ cup): A crunchy, festive topping that brings texture and peppermint pops with every bite.
How to Make Decadent Layered Peppermint Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Brownie Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, and lining a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper. This prep helps ensure easy removal of your beautiful brownies later. In a large bowl, mix the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Then whip in the eggs one at a time with vanilla extract so everything blends perfectly. This lovely base promises rich, fudgy brownies full of chocolate goodness.
Step 2: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt to your wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix here—just enough to combine so the brownies stay tender and moist rather than cakey. Pour this rich, chocolaty batter into your prepared pan and smooth it evenly across the surface. This sets the stage for your decadent layers to come.
Step 3: Bake and Cool
Bake the brownies for 30 to 35 minutes, watching for the edges to pull away from the sides and a toothpick inserted in the center to come out with a few moist crumbs. Cooling completely in the pan before adding the layers is key so your toppings set beautifully without sliding off. Patience here will reward you with neat, luscious layers.
Step 4: Make the Peppermint Cream Filling
Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy, then stir in the peppermint extract for that signature refreshing zip. Once brownies are cool, spread this luscious cream evenly over the base. This layer is where the magic happens—a creamy burst of mint that pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate below.
Step 5: Prepare and Add the Chocolate Ganache
Warm the heavy cream just until steaming, pour it over the semi-sweet chocolate chips, and let sit a minute to soften. Stir gently until the ganache is smooth and glossy, then pour it over the peppermint cream layer. This silky chocolate finish not only looks stunning but locks in all the flavors beneath it.
Step 6: Finish with Crushed Peppermint
Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies liberally over the warm ganache for a festive crunch and that unmistakable holiday vibe. Chill the brownies in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours so the layers set perfectly and the bars come together as a luscious, sliceable treat. Use the parchment overhang to lift them out effortlessly when ready to serve.
How to Serve Decadent Layered Peppermint Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little extra flair when serving your brownies elevates the experience. Fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar can brighten the presentation, while an extra sprinkle of crushed peppermint on each plate reinforces those refreshing mint notes. You can also drizzle a bit of white chocolate over the top for visual contrast and additional sweetness.
Side Dishes
These brownies are so rich and satisfying, they pair beautifully with something light like a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an adult twist, serve alongside a cup of hot cocoa or peppermint mocha coffee to complement and amplify the flavors. Even a simple glass of cold milk brings balance to the decadent layers.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow guests, consider serving these brownies on a festive board alongside peppermint bark or dark chocolate truffles for a full-on chocolate mint experience. Cutting them into mini squares or using cookie cutters to create fun shapes adds a playful touch especially for holiday parties. Layer them in clear glass jars for gift-giving or as a pretty dessert display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover brownies covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keeping them chilled preserves the peppermint cream layer’s freshness and maintains the ganache’s glossy smoothness. Make sure to use an airtight container or wrap in plastic wrap to prevent the brownies from absorbing other fridge odors.
Freezing
These brownies also freeze well, making them perfect to prepare ahead of time. Slice them first into individual servings, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months and defrosted overnight in the fridge for a delightful treat whenever the mood strikes.
Reheating
For a warm, fudgy bite, you can gently reheat individual pieces in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This softens the ganache slightly and warms the brownie without melting the peppermint cream too much. Serve warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect dessert experience.
FAQs
Can I use peppermint oil instead of peppermint extract?
Peppermint oil is much more concentrated than extract, so if you want to substitute, use it sparingly. Start with just a drop or two and adjust carefully to avoid overpowering the delicate flavors in the Decadent Layered Peppermint Brownies Recipe.
What if I don’t have cream cheese for the peppermint layer?
The cream cheese provides the tangy richness necessary for the peppermint filling. You could try substituting with mascarpone cheese or a thick Greek yogurt, but results may vary. The classic cream cheese version really gives these brownies their signature decadence.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking. Ensure the cocoa powder and other ingredients are gluten-free certified for best results while maintaining the fantastic layering and texture.
Do these brownies need to be refrigerated?
Because of the cream cheese and ganache layers, it’s best to store these in the fridge to keep them fresh and safe. Bringing them to room temperature before serving helps restore their creamy texture and lets the peppermint flavor shine fully.
Can I make these brownies ahead for a party?
Absolutely! That is one of the best things about the Decadent Layered Peppermint Brownies Recipe. You can make them up to 2 days in advance and keep them chilled in the refrigerator. They keep well and taste just as fabulous when served later, making your party prep a breeze.
Final Thoughts
This Decadent Layered Peppermint Brownies Recipe truly is a showstopper for any occasion. The combination of fudgy chocolate, creamy peppermint filling, and luscious ganache topping makes for an irresistible holiday or anytime dessert. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these brownies as much as I do—they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and will keep everyone coming back for more!
Print
Decadent Layered Peppermint Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Decadent Layered Peppermint Brownies combine rich chocolate brownie base with a smooth peppermint cream filling and a glossy chocolate ganache topped with crushed peppermint candies. Perfect for holiday celebrations, this festive dessert delivers a delightful combination of fudgy texture, creamy mint flavor, and crunchy peppermint topping.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Peppermint Cream Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
Chocolate Ganache and Topping
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing it to hang over the edges for easy removal of the brownies later.
- Mix Brownie Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add four large eggs and two teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt, taking care not to overmix. Once combined, pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the surface.
- Bake Brownies: Bake the batter in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. The edges should pull away from the pan and a toothpick inserted in the center will come out with a few moist crumbs. Let brownies cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare Peppermint Cream Filling: In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Stir in peppermint extract to flavor the cream filling. Once brownies are cooled, spread this mixture evenly over the top.
- Make Chocolate Ganache: Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until just warm. Pour warm cream over semi-sweet chocolate chips in a bowl and let sit for one minute to soften. Stir until the ganache is smooth and glossy.
- Assemble and Chill: Pour the ganache evenly over the peppermint cream layer. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies generously on top. Refrigerate the brownies for about 2 hours until fully set.
- Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies from the pan. Cut into squares with a sharp knife and enjoy your festive layered peppermint brownies!
Notes
- Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before adding the cream cheese layer to prevent melting.
- The ganache should be spread while still pourable but not hot to avoid melting the cream layer.
- Use high-quality peppermint extract for the best mint flavor.
- For easier cutting, chill brownies thoroughly and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.
- Store leftover brownies refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
