These Peppermint Brownie Bites are the perfect holiday treat! Fudgy, minty, and delightfully decadent, these bite-sized brownies are a festive way to indulge in your favorite seasonal flavors. With a rich chocolate base, a hint of peppermint, and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes on top, they are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday celebrations.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
What makes these Peppermint Brownie Bites so irresistible? First, they combine the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the refreshing flavor of peppermint, creating a delightful contrast that is both satisfying and invigorating. Second, their bite-sized nature makes them easy to share, perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying at home with loved ones. Finally, they are quick and simple to prepare, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time, leaving you with more moments to cherish during this busy season.
Introduction
The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and, of course, delicious treats! Among the many confections that grace our tables, brownies hold a special place in our hearts. They are versatile, loved by all ages, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. This year, why not add a festive twist to your traditional brownie recipe? Enter the Peppermint Brownie Bites—a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a sweet treat to enjoy by the fire, these brownie bites are the perfect solution. Let’s dive into the recipe and make this holiday season even sweeter!
Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp peppermint extract (adjust to taste)
- ⅓ cup cocoa powder
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional, for extra richness)
- ¼ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a mini muffin tin by greasing it lightly or lining it with mini cupcake liners. This will ensure that your brownie bites come out easily and maintain their lovely shape.
Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. The melted butter will help dissolve the sugars, creating a rich base for your brownie batter.
Step 3:
Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the sugar mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. The peppermint extract is what gives these brownie bites their distinctive flavor, so feel free to adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
Step 4:
Sift the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder into the mixing bowl. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser brownie. If you’re feeling indulgent, fold in the chocolate chips at this stage for an extra layer of richness.
Step 5:
Spoon the brownie batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cavity about three-quarters full. This will allow room for the brownies to rise without overflowing. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. A few moist crumbs clinging to the toothpick are perfectly fine; they will ensure your brownie bites remain fudgy.
After baking, allow the brownie bites to cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, sprinkle the tops with crushed peppermint candies or candy canes for a festive touch.
Serving Suggestions:
These Peppermint Brownie Bites can be enjoyed on their own or served with a variety of accompaniments. Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. They also make a delightful addition to a holiday dessert platter alongside cookies, fudge, and other festive sweets. For a cozy night in, enjoy them with a cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea.
Tips:
- Storage: Store any leftover brownie bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins! Chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, or even a swirl of cream cheese can add a unique twist to your brownie bites.
- Minty Freshness: If you love the taste of peppermint, consider adding more crushed peppermint candies on top for an extra crunch and burst of flavor.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on your brownie bites as they bake; ovens can vary, and you want to avoid overbaking them for that perfect fudgy texture.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
12-15 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 180 per serving
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
Conclusion
These Peppermint Brownie Bites are not just a treat; they are a celebration of the holiday spirit! With their fudgy texture, delightful peppermint flavor, and festive appearance, they are sure to become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire. Whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or savoring them all to yourself, these brownie bites are a delicious way to spread joy this season. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the holiday baking begin!
Questions and Answers
- Can I use different types of chocolate in this recipe?
- Absolutely! You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk chocolate or dark chocolate, depending on your preference. Each type will give a different flavor profile to the brownie bites.
- What can I do if I don’t have mini muffin tins?
- If you don’t have mini muffin tins, you can use a regular muffin tin. Just be sure to adjust the baking time, as larger muffins will take longer to bake.
- How can I make these brownie bites gluten-free?
- To make these brownie bites gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
- Can I make these brownie bites ahead of time?
- Yes! These brownie bites can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
- Is it possible to make these brownie bites vegan?
- You can try substituting the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) and using a plant-based butter alternative. The results may vary slightly, but they should still be delicious!
