There’s something undeniably comforting about brownies baking in the oven. The deep chocolate aroma filling the kitchen, the quiet anticipation as you wait for them to cool, and that first rich bite — these are moments that have always drawn me back to the kitchen. They remind me why I fell in love with home baking in the first place.

My journey with food began by watching simple ingredients come together to create joy at the table. Over time, and through traveling, I learned that desserts often carry the strongest memories. They mark celebrations, holidays, and small moments worth savoring. That belief is at the heart of Maison Recipes — where baking feels achievable, joyful, and meant to be shared.

These Peppermint Fudge Brownies bring together everything I love about holiday baking. They’re rich and fudgy, deeply chocolatey, and finished with a refreshing hint of peppermint that feels festive without being overwhelming. Perfect for holidays, cookie trays, or cozy winter evenings, this is a brownie recipe you’ll want to return to every year.

Table of Contents

Why Make These Peppermint Fudge Brownies

Peppermint and chocolate are a classic pairing, especially during the holidays. These brownies strike the perfect balance between indulgence and freshness.

Here’s why this recipe stands out:

Ultra-fudgy texture with deep chocolate flavor
Cool peppermint finish without overpowering sweetness
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfect for holiday baking and gifting
Crowd-pleasing and visually festive

They’re rich enough to feel special, yet easy enough for home bakers of any level.

How to Make Peppermint Fudge Brownies

These brownies are made in one bowl and baked until just set, ensuring that signature fudgy center. The peppermint is added gently so it complements the chocolate rather than dominating it.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

¾ cup unsalted butter
1½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon peppermint extract
2 large eggs
¾ cup all-purpose flour

For the Topping

1 cup chocolate chips
½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

Directions

Steps for making peppermint fudge brownies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat.
Stir in sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until smooth.
Add vanilla and peppermint extract and mix well.
Beat in the eggs one at a time until the mixture looks glossy.
Fold in the flour gently until just combined.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 22–25 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly soft.
Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips over the top.
Let sit for a few minutes, then spread melted chocolate evenly.
Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the top.
Allow brownies to cool completely before slicing.

How to Serve Peppermint Fudge Brownies

These brownies are best served once fully set, allowing the fudge layer to firm up slightly.

Serving ideas include:

On a holiday dessert platter
With coffee or hot chocolate
Wrapped individually for gifts
As part of a cookie exchange

Their bold chocolate flavor pairs beautifully with warm winter drinks.

How to Store Peppermint Fudge Brownies

Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Store up to 5 days for a firmer texture.
Freezing: Freeze sliced brownies for up to 2 months.

Let frozen brownies thaw at room temperature before serving.

Tips to Make Peppermint Fudge Brownies Perfect

Do not overbake — fudgy brownies need a soft center
Use peppermint extract sparingly
Let brownies cool fully before slicing
Line pan with parchment for easy removal
Use good-quality cocoa powder for best flavor

These details help ensure rich texture and balanced peppermint flavor.

Variation

These brownies are easy to customize:

Extra chocolate: Add chocolate chunks to the batter
Mint swirl: Swirl peppermint-flavored cream topping on top
White chocolate drizzle: Drizzle melted white chocolate after cooling
Less minty: Reduce peppermint extract slightly

FAQs

Can I use mint extract instead of peppermint extract?
Peppermint extract works best, as mint extract can be too strong.

Why are my brownies dry?
They were likely overbaked. Remove them while the center is still soft.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they taste even better the next day.

Conclusion

These Peppermint Fudge Brownies are rich, festive, and full of holiday charm. With their fudgy texture, deep chocolate flavor, and refreshing peppermint finish, they’re a dessert that brings warmth and celebration to any table.

I hope these brownies become part of your holiday baking tradition. From my kitchen to yours, happy baking with Maison Recipes