One Bowl Peppermint Brownies | Easy Holiday Favorite

There’s something about One Bowl Peppermint Brownies that just feels like December. I made these brownies on a snowy afternoon with the fireplace crackling and a big mug of cocoa nearby. What came out of the oven was everything I wanted—fudgy, cool, rich, and so simple to make. No stand mixer. No fancy tools. Just One Bowl Peppermint Brownies, one pan, and a little holiday magic.

What You’ll Need to Make One Bowl Peppermint Brownies

Tools

• 8×8 inch baking pan
• Microwave-safe mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Knife

Brownie Ingredients

• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 1/4 cups chocolate chips (divided)
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons instant espresso powder (optional)
• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

Ganache Topping

• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 teaspoon unsalted butter
• Pinch of salt

Garnish

• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

How to Make One Bowl Peppermint Brownies Step by Step

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting some overhang for easy removal later.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 12 tablespoons of butter with 1/2 cup of chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until smooth and glossy.

Step 3: Stir in Cocoa and Espresso

Add the cocoa powder, salt, and optional espresso powder. Whisk until smooth. The batter will look thick and dark—just what you want.

Step 4: Add Sugars and Eggs

Mix in the white sugar and brown sugar until combined and shiny. Whisk in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each one.

Step 5: Add Peppermint and Oil

Stir in the peppermint extract and vegetable oil until the mixture becomes silky and smooth.

Step 6: Fold in Flour and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the flour. Once mostly incorporated, add the remaining 3/4 cup of chocolate chips and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes. The edges should be set, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.

Step 8: Make the Ganache

While the brownies cool, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium-low heat until warm (but not boiling). Pour it over the chocolate chips in a bowl and let sit for 3–4 minutes. Whisk until smooth. Stir in the peppermint extract, butter, and a pinch of salt.

Step 9: Spread and Garnish

Once the brownies are cool, spread the ganache over the top evenly. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the ganache while it’s still soft so they stick well.

Step 10: Chill

Place the pan in the fridge and chill for at least 1 hour. This helps the ganache set and makes slicing clean and easy.

Expert Tips for Making the Best One Bowl Peppermint Brownies

Slightly underbake the brownies for a gooey, fudgy center. Chill them before slicing for the cleanest cuts. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut. High-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips make a noticeable difference in flavor, so use the best you can find. Don’t skip the parchment—it makes lifting the brownies out of the pan much easier.

Storage and Make Ahead

Store brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To freeze, wait until the ganache is set, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

FAQs

One Bowl Peppermint Brownies Recipe Card

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More Such Recipes

If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy:
Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies for Holiday Baking
White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake – A Festive Favorite
Halloween Brownies with Cheesecake Swirl
Mummy Brownies – Fun Gluten-Free Halloween Treats

Final Thoughts

These One Bowl Peppermint Brownies are rich, fudgy, and full of holiday cheer. They’re easy enough for a weeknight bake but special enough for a party tray or cookie exchange. I love how the cool peppermint balances the deep chocolate, and that ganache? It’s the perfect finishing touch. If you make them, tag me on Pinterest or Facebook so I can see your beautiful brownies and share the joy.