Description
These Peppermint Bark Brownies feature a rich, fudgy chocolate base topped with a creamy white chocolate layer and sprinkled with festive chopped candy cane pieces. Perfect for holiday gatherings, Christmas parties, or as a standout dessert at any potluck.
Ingredients
Brownies:
- 6 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup salted butter, cubed
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon table salt
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
Topping:
- 1 ½ cup white chocolate chips
- 2 Tablespoons vegetable shortening
- ⅔ cup chopped candy cane pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Adjust oven rack to the middle position and preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Melt chocolate and butter: Place chopped unsweetened chocolate and cubed butter in a medium heat-proof bowl. Microwave at 50% power for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving at 50% power for 30 seconds, stir and repeat until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. Let cool for 5 minutes.
- Mix wet ingredients and sugar: In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add flour and combine: Gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour until just combined with no flour streaks remaining.
- Incorporate the chocolate mixture: Whisk the cooled melted chocolate and butter mixture into the batter until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Pour and bake: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Melt white chocolate topping: Place white chocolate chips and vegetable shortening in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, stir, then continue microwaving for additional 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth. Take care to avoid burning the white chocolate by using short bursts of time.
- Spread topping and add candy cane pieces: Pour the melted white chocolate mixture over the cooled brownies and spread into an even layer. Immediately sprinkle the chopped candy cane pieces evenly on top.
- Cool completely: Allow the brownies to cool on a wire rack for about 2-3 hours until the white chocolate topping firms and sets properly.
- Slice and serve: Once fully cooled and set, slice the brownies into squares and serve at room temperature. Enjoy your festive peppermint bark brownies!
Notes
- Ensure the brownies are fully cooled before spreading the white chocolate topping to prevent melting and uneven layers.
- The white chocolate can burn easily in the microwave, so use short intervals when melting and stir frequently.
- For best results, use fresh candy canes for crisp texture and vibrant flavor.
- If you prefer a more intense peppermint flavor, add a few drops of peppermint extract to the white chocolate topping before spreading.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American