Dark Chocolate Peppermint Brownies

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a cold day, you’ve come to the right place! These Dark Chocolate Peppermint Brownies have become one of my all-time favorites. They are rich, fudgy, and just the right amount of minty. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy family nights, or even a little indulgence after a busy week. The best part? They’re gluten-free and paleo-friendly, so everyone can enjoy them!

These brownies hold a special place in my heart because they remind me of festive celebrations with friends and family. The combination of dark chocolate and peppermint is simply irresistible and brings back memories of joyful moments spent together. Trust me; once you try these brownies, they’ll quickly become your go-to treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these decadent brownies in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves chocolate! These brownies are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for sharing: Whether it’s a potluck or just a sweet surprise for your loved ones, these brownies are great for sharing (or not!).
• Make-ahead convenience: You can bake them ahead of time and keep them chilled until you’re ready to serve.
• Deliciously fudgy: Each bite is packed with rich chocolate flavor that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create these delightful Dark Chocolate Peppermint Brownies. Most of these items are probably already in your pantry!

For the Brownie Base

• 6 Tablespoons butter or coconut oil
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1 large egg plus 1 large yolk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 cup no-sugar-added applesauce
• 3/4 cup blanched almond flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder (Special Dark is recommended, natural is fine too)
• 3 Tablespoons granulated monk fruit sweetener or granulated stevia
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Peppermint Layer

• 1/2 cup coconut cream
• 1 large egg
• 2 Tablespoons granulated monk fruit sweetener or granulated stevia
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Festive sprinkles, if desired

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste.

• Add nuts: For an extra crunch, throw in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter.
• Try different extracts: If peppermint isn’t your thing, swap it out for almond or orange extract for a unique twist!
• Top with frosting: Add a layer of dairy-free chocolate frosting on top for an even more indulgent treat.
• Mix in some superfoods: Consider adding chia seeds or flaxseed meal to boost the nutrition without compromising flavor.

How to Make Dark Chocolate Peppermint Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step ensures that your brownies will bake evenly and come out perfectly fudgy! While it’s heating up, coat an 8 square pan with nonstick spray—this will help prevent any sticky situations later.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture

In a large microwave-safe mixing bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butter (or coconut oil). Microwave on high for about 60 seconds until nearly melted. Stir until completely smooth. Melting these two together creates that luscious base where all the rich flavors begin!

Step 3: Mix in Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time to stir in the whole egg, yolk, vanilla, and applesauce. Mixing these wet ingredients well is crucial as they contribute moisture and enhance the brownie’s texture.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the almond flour, cocoa powder, sweetener, and salt. Once mixed well, gently fold this dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. This step keeps our brownies from becoming tough—nobody wants dry brownies!

Step 5: Prepare the Pan

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan and smooth it into an even layer. It’s important that every corner gets filled! Set this aside while we prepare our peppermint layer.

Step 6: Make the Peppermint Layer

In another bowl, whisk together coconut cream and one egg until combined. Stir in sweetener and peppermint extract until everything is blended nicely. This creamy layer adds that refreshing minty kick!

Step 7: Layering Time!

Pour the peppermint mixture over the brownie base in the pan then spread it into an even layer. If you’re feeling festive, now’s your chance to sprinkle some colorful decorations on top.

Step 8: Bake Away!

Bake those lovelies in your preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes until a tester comes out mostly clean—this means they’re perfectly baked but still wonderfully fudgy.

Step 9: Chill Before Serving

This step might be tough because you’ll want to dive right in! But chilling them in the refrigerator helps them set properly before slicing. Patience pays off here!

Once chilled and ready to serve, slice them up and watch everyone smile as they enjoy these delightful Dark Chocolate Peppermint Brownies!

Pro Tips for Making Dark Chocolate Peppermint Brownies

These brownies are a treat you won’t want to miss, and with these tips, you’ll make them even more delightful!

• Use quality chocolate chips: Choosing high-quality chocolate can elevate the flavor of your brownies, making them richer and more decadent.

• Don’t skip the chilling step: Chilling the brownies before slicing allows them to set properly, resulting in cleaner cuts and a fudgier texture.

• Measure ingredients accurately: Precision in measuring your almond flour and cocoa powder can significantly affect the texture of your brownies, ensuring they turn out perfectly dense and fudgy.

• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add some chopped nuts or dairy-free peppermint candies to the batter for an extra crunch and festive flair.

• Check for doneness carefully: Since ovens vary, checking your brownies a few minutes early helps prevent overbaking, which can dry them out.

How to Serve Dark Chocolate Peppermint Brownies

Serving these brownies is part of the fun! With a few simple touches, you can create a beautiful presentation that will impress everyone at your table.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on top adds a creamy texture that complements the dense brownie beautifully.
• Crushed peppermint candies: Sprinkling crushed peppermint candies on top gives a festive touch while enhancing that refreshing mint flavor.
• Chocolate drizzle: A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the brownies can make them look even more indulgent and appealing.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich brownies and balances out the sweetness.
• Coconut milk ice cream: This dairy-free dessert pairs nicely with warm brownies, offering a creamy texture that’s perfect for cooling down your palate.
• Mint tea: A warm cup of peppermint or spearmint tea complements the brownie’s flavor profile while providing a soothing finish to your meal.
• Nutty granola: A small serving of nutty granola can add texture and offer a wholesome crunch alongside your rich dessert.

Whether shared with friends or savored alone, these Dark Chocolate Peppermint Brownies are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Dark Chocolate Peppermint Brownies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making them an ideal treat to have on hand for any occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator where they will last up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To enjoy later, simply thaw them at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds.

Reheating

• For a warm treat, microwave brownies for about 10-15 seconds until just warm.
• If you prefer them slightly crispy, you can reheat them in a toaster oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delicious brownies!

Can I make Dark Chocolate Peppermint Brownies without gluten?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free due to the use of blanched almond flour instead of traditional flour.

How do I ensure my Dark Chocolate Peppermint Brownies are fudgy?

To achieve that perfect fudgy texture, make sure not to overbake them. They should be set on the outside but still soft in the center. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs when they’re done.

Can I substitute the sweetener in Dark Chocolate Peppermint Brownies?

Yes! You can use any granulated sweetener of your choice. Just make sure it measures similarly to monk fruit or stevia for best results.

How long do these brownies last?

If stored properly, these brownies can last up to a week in the refrigerator and even longer if frozen.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Dark Chocolate Peppermint Brownies! They’re rich, decadent, and perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself). Enjoy every bite knowing they’re both delicious and made with wholesome ingredients. Happy baking!