Indulgent Peppermint Brownie Bites
Indulgent Peppermint Brownie Bites are the perfect festive treat to satisfy your sweet tooth while bringing festive cheer. These bite-sized brownies blend rich chocolate flavor with a refreshing hint of peppermint, making them an irresistible addition to any holiday gathering or cozy dessert table. With their fudgy texture and delightful crunch from the peppermint topping, these brownie bites are sure to be a hit with friends and family alike.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 30-33 minutes
- Servings: 24 bites
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 85mg
Why Make This Indulgent Peppermint Brownie Bites
Indulgent Peppermint Brownie Bites are not just any dessert—they’re a celebration of flavors and textures. The rich chocolate base combined with peppermint extract creates a delightful treat that’s festive yet easy to make. These brownie bites are perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or simply as a sweet escape on a chilly day. Plus, their mini size means you can enjoy just one (or a few!) without feeling too guilty.
How to Make Indulgent Peppermint Brownie Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- Crushed peppermint candies for topping
- Chocolate ganache for drizzling (optional)
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin. This ensures the brownie bites come out easily after baking.
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Step 2: Mixing
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until combined.
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Step 3: Cooking
Beat in the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt to the mixture. Mix until just combined, then stir in peppermint extract and chocolate chips for a delicious chocolatey and minty flavor.
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Step 4: Finishing
Spoon the batter into the mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Let your brownie bites cool for a few minutes in the tin, then gently remove them. Top with crushed peppermint candies and drizzle with chocolate ganache if desired. Allow to cool completely before serving.
How to Serve Indulgent Peppermint Brownie Bites
Serve these brownie bites on a festive platter or in colorful cupcake liners for a fun presentation. They make a great addition to holiday dessert tables or as a sweet treat alongside a warm cup of cocoa or coffee. They’re also perfect for gifting in a decorative tin or box.
How to Store Indulgent Peppermint Brownie Bites
To keep your brownie bites fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Expert Tips for Perfect Indulgent Peppermint Brownie Bites
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour; this keeps your brownies fudgy.
- Allow the brownie bites to cool completely before adding toppings to prevent them from melting.
- Feel free to omit the chocolate ganache if you want a lighter treat, or use white chocolate chips for a different flavor twist.
Delicious Variations
- Mint Chocolate Chip: Add extra chocolate chips infused with mint for a burst of flavor.
- Dark Chocolate: Replace half the granulated sugar with brown sugar and use dark cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Top with Frosting: Instead of just ganache, frost the brownie bites with a mint-flavored buttercream for an extra indulgent treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine, but it might slightly alter the texture and flavor. -
How can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour. -
Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
You can reduce the sugar by about 1/4 cup, but this may affect the taste and texture of the brownies. -
What if I don’t have a mini muffin tin?
You can use a regular muffin tin; just adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes. -
Can I serve these brownies warm?
Yes! They are delicious warm with a scoop of ice cream, but be careful with the chocolate ganache so it doesn’t melt off!
Conclusion
Indulgent Peppermint Brownie Bites are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint. They are easy to make, perfect for sharing, and guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up these sweet bites in no time. So gather your loved ones and enjoy the festive goodness that these brownie bites bring to your holiday celebrations!
