Peppermint Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re anything like me and love the combo of rich chocolate and cool peppermint, you’re going to adore this Peppermint Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. It’s got that perfect fudgy brownie base that melts in your mouth, paired with a luscious cream cheese frosting that’s delicately infused with peppermint. Seriously, it’s the kind of treat that makes any day feel special, whether it’s the holidays or just a sweet craving. Stick around and I’ll walk you through making these brownies that my family absolutely goes crazy for!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Choosing quality ingredients makes a huge difference here. I always go for good quality bittersweet chocolate and fresh cream cheese because they really elevate the flavor. Don’t skip the peppermint extract – it’s the star that transforms these brownies from ordinary to magical.

• Bitter sweet chocolate: Using at least 60-70% cocoa ensures deep chocolate flavor without being too bitter.
• Butter: Unsalted is best so you can control the saltiness during baking.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create that delicate crust on top.
• Eggs: They’re the glue and add moisture; use large eggs for consistency.
• Peppermint extract: Adds that fresh, cool peppermint taste without overpowering.
• Vanilla extract: Just a touch enhances all the flavors together.
• All-purpose flour: The base structure for your fudgy brownies.
• Dark chocolate cocoa powder: Boosts the chocolate intensity and color.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and brings out the chocolate nuances.
• Cream cheese (softened): For a rich and tangy frosting that’s smooth and dreamy.
• Butter (softened): Helps create creamy, spreadable frosting texture.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• Heavy whipping cream: Makes the frosting luscious and silky.
• Bittersweet chocolate chips: For sprinkling on top — adds texture and extra chocolate punch.
• Candy cane (crushed): Gives that festive crunch and peppermint burst.

Variations

I love making this recipe my own depending on the occasion. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday party or just craving something minty and chocolatey midweek, there are fun tweaks you can try.

• Gluten-Free: I swapped the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend once, and the brownies still turned out fudgy and delicious — just watch the baking time closely.
• Dairy-Free: Using vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese works surprisingly well, though the frosting texture will be slightly different.
• Extra Minty Kick: When friends asked for a stronger peppermint flavor, I upped the peppermint extract in the frosting a bit, and everyone loved the refreshing bite.
• Crunchy Topping: Sometimes I add chopped dark chocolate nuts or crushed peppermint bark on top instead of candy cane for a fun change in texture.

How to Make Peppermint Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Melt Chocolate and Butter – The Flavor Base

Start by gently melting the bittersweet chocolate and butter together. I like to do this using a double boiler method or carefully in short bursts in the microwave, stirring in between to avoid burning. This step is crucial as it creates that rich, glossy base for your brownies that will make them irresistibly fudgy.

Step 2: Whisk in Sugar, Eggs, and Extracts

Once your chocolate mixture is smooth and cooled slightly, whisk in the granulated sugar. Then beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Finally, stir in your peppermint and vanilla extracts — this is where the lovely holiday magic begins!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Fold Gently

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt to ensure even distribution. Gradually fold these into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix — you want to preserve that tender fudgy texture. The batter will be thick and luscious, just perfect.

Step 4: Bake Until Set but Moist

Pour your batter into a prepared pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs but not wet batter. Resist the urge to overbake! I learned this the hard way when my brownies ended up cakey instead of fudgy.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and continue beating. Then drizzle in the heavy cream and peppermint extract, mixing until the frosting is light and spreadable. This frosting is what makes these brownies extra special — tangy, sweet, and peppermint-kissed.

Step 6: Spread, Garnish, and Chill

Once the brownies are cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly on top. Sprinkle bittersweet chocolate chips and crushed candy cane pieces for a festive crunch. Pop them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let everything set beautifully.

How to Serve Peppermint Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping these brownies with a little extra crushed candy cane and a few chocolate chips to make them pop visually and offer a nice texture contrast. Sometimes, I add a tiny mint leaf or a light dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant touch when serving guests.

Side Dishes

A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream pairs amazingly well with these peppermint brownies, especially if you want to turn them into a decadent dessert. For drinks, a hot cup of coffee, peppermint tea, or a mug of creamy hot chocolate makes the perfect companion.

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve taken these brownies to holiday parties served on a festive platter garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs and cranberries for a beautiful, seasonal look. Another fun idea is to cut them into bite-sized squares and arrange on a tiered dessert stand — they disappear fast!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually keep leftover peppermint brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The frosting holds up well, and chilling keeps the texture just right. Before serving leftovers, letting them come to room temperature brings out the fudginess again.

Freezing

If you want to freeze these brownies, I recommend freezing them without the frosting on top. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw completely, then spread the cream cheese frosting freshly made for that perfect finish.

Reheating

Warm a piece in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if you like your brownie slightly gooey. Just avoid reheating with the frosting on — it can melt and become runny. Adding frosting after warming is definitely my go-to tip for keeping these brownies irresistible.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Peppermint Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe balances that intense chocolate richness with the refreshing hint of peppermint and the tangy sweetness of the frosting. When I first made it, my family couldn’t get enough, and it quickly became our holiday favorite—and honestly, they’re so good any time of year! I hope you enjoy making and sharing these brownies as much as we do; they’re the kind of treat that brings a smile with every bite.

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