Double Peppermint Ganache Brownies Recipe

If you crave a festive dessert that packs a serious chocolate punch with a refreshing twist, this Double Peppermint Ganache Brownies Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine fudgy, richly chocolatey brownies infused with cool peppermint flavor, crowned by a silky peppermint ganache and a crunchy peppermint candy topping. These brownies bring together the best of chocolate and mint in every bite, making them perfect for holiday celebrations or anytime you want to impress friends and family with a show-stopping treat. Get ready to fall in love with this ultimate chocolaty mint delight!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Double Peppermint Ganache Brownies Recipe lies in its simple yet powerful ingredients. Each is chosen to create that perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color—from the creamy butter that ensures moistness to the espresso powder that subtly enhances the chocolate depth. Let’s take a look!

• Unsalted butter, 1 ½ cups (3 sticks): Provides rich moisture and a velvety texture for the brownies.
• Chocolate chips, 2 ½ cups (divided): Divided use ensures gooey pockets in the batter and silky smoothness in the ganache.
• Cocoa powder, 1 ½ cups: Packs intense chocolate flavor and deep color that makes these brownies irresistible.
• Salt, 1 tsp: Balances sweetness and enhances all the chocolate notes.
• Sugar, 1 ½ cups: Adds sweetness and a tender crumb to the brownies.
• Brown sugar, 1 ½ cups (packed, light or dark): Brings caramel undertones and moistness.
• Large eggs, 6: Bind everything together and give a fudgy richness.
• Vegetable oil, 4 Tbsp: Keeps the brownies extra moist and soft.
• Peppermint extract, 2 tsp (1 tsp in batter, 1 tsp in ganache): Delivers that refreshing mint flavor that makes this recipe stand out.
• All-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups: Provides structure while keeping the interior tender.
• Espresso powder, 1 Tbsp (optional): Enhances and deepens the chocolate flavor without adding coffee taste.
• Heavy cream, 1 cup: Creates the silky smooth ganache topping.
• Unsalted butter, 2 tsp (for ganache): Adds shine and richness to the ganache.
• Pinch of salt (for ganache): Balances sweetness and rounds out flavors.
• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes: Adds a festive crunch and more peppermint zest on top.

How to Make Double Peppermint Ganache Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure your brownies don’t stick and come out in perfect, neat squares. This simple prep means no stress when it’s time to slice your masterpiece.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate

In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt your unsalted butter together with 1 ¼ cups of the chocolate chips. Stir this mixture until it’s silky smooth and lump-free. This melted duo is the heart of your brownies, bringing velvety richness and deep chocolate flavor.

Step 3: Combine Cocoa, Sugars, and Eggs

Whisk in the cocoa powder, salt, sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Keep whisking until the batter turns glossy and thick—this is the luscious base that will give your brownies that perfect fudgy bite and a hint of refreshing mint.

Step 4: Fold in Flour, Espresso Powder, and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, espresso powder if you’re using it, and the remaining chocolate chips. This step is where the batter thickens, and the chocolate chips spread throughout, ready to melt into pockets of ooey-gooey delight once baked.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour your batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, just until the edges are set but the center still looks slightly underdone—this is key for that fudgy texture that brownies are famous for.

Step 6: Cool and Chill

Allow the brownies to cool completely at room temperature, then pop the pan into the refrigerator for at least an hour. Chilling is essential because it firms up the brownies so they slice cleanly and beautifully later.

Step 7: Make the Peppermint Ganache

Heat your heavy cream until steaming (don’t boil!). Pour it over 1 cup of chocolate chips, butter, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Let it rest for 3 minutes, then stir until luxuriously smooth. Stir in the remaining 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract for that extra minty punch.

Step 8: Spread the Ganache and Add Peppermint Toppings

Spread the shiny ganache evenly over your chilled brownies. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or candy canes generously on top—this adds both a festive look and a delightful crunch that complements the creamy ganache perfectly.

Step 9: Final Chill and Slice

Chill the brownies again briefly to set the ganache firmly in place. Once set, slice into 32 delicious squares and prepare to wow your taste buds with this ultimate Double Peppermint Ganache Brownies Recipe sensation.

How to Serve Double Peppermint Ganache Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a little extra flair to your brownies is always a great idea. Consider topping each square with a small fresh mint leaf or a tiny dollop of whipped cream for an elegant touch. For a festive sparkle, a light dusting of powdered sugar over the crushed candies adds a snowy effect.

Side Dishes

These brownies are so rich and refreshing, they pair beautifully with simple accompaniments. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream balances the minty richness, while a hot cup of coffee or peppermint tea complements the peppermint notes perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, serve these brownies on a festive platter lined with evergreen sprigs or holly for a holiday vibe. You can also cut them into bite-sized nuggets and place on cocktail sticks for fun, dunkable treats. Gift them in a pretty box lined with parchment for a homemade gift that will impress anyone lucky enough to receive it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Double Peppermint Ganache Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For best texture and flavor, refrigeration is recommended if your kitchen is warm or humid, where they will stay moist and the ganache fresh for up to a week.

Freezing

You can freeze these brownies! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store in a freezer-safe container. They freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bring to room temperature before serving to enjoy that perfect fudgy texture and rich peppermint ganache.

Reheating

If you prefer your brownies a little warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This melts the ganache just slightly, making the chocolate extra gooey and the peppermint aroma even more inviting. Avoid overheating to keep the ganache smooth and glossy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?

Absolutely! While semi-sweet chocolate chips are perfect for balancing sweetness and richness, you can experiment with dark chocolate for a more intense flavor or milk chocolate for extra sweetness. Just make sure to adjust the sugar levels in the batter if you go much sweeter.

Is espresso powder necessary in this Double Peppermint Ganache Brownies Recipe?

Espresso powder is optional but highly recommended because it enhances the chocolate flavor without adding a coffee taste. If you don’t have any, you can skip it and your brownies will still be incredible, just a tad less rich in chocolate depth.

Can I substitute the peppermint extract with fresh peppermint leaves?

Fresh mint leaves won’t provide the same intense peppermint flavor concentrated in the extract. You can infuse cream with fresh mint for the ganache, but for that unmistakable peppermint bite throughout the brownies, peppermint extract is your best bet.

How do I ensure my brownies are fudgy and not cakey?

The key to fudgy brownies is the balance of fat (butter and oil) to flour, and not overbaking. Bake until just set, cool completely, and chill before slicing. This recipe’s generous butter, combined with eggs and oil, guarantee a dense, moist brownie that melts in your mouth.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

You can try substituting with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary slightly in texture. Be sure your baking powder or espresso powder is gluten-free as well. These brownies are so delicious that gluten-free adaptations are definitely worth experimenting with!

Final Thoughts

Sharing this Double Peppermint Ganache Brownies Recipe has been a true joy because it combines the very best of chocolate and mint in a fudgy, festive, and utterly irresistible way. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or simply treating yourself, these brownies are sure to become a beloved classic. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and watch your friends and family fall in love bite after bite!

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