The Art of Layered Peppermint Brownie Perfection

Creating the Fudgy Foundation

Master the technique of building a deeply chocolatey brownie base with perfect texture - not cakey but fudgy and dense enough to support multiple layers.

Whipping Peppermint Cream

Learn the art of achieving cloud-like cream cheese filling that's fluffy yet stable, flavored with just the right amount of mint extract for refreshing contrast.

Smooth Ganache Technique

Perfect the simple but crucial skill of making silky chocolate ganache that spreads easily and sets with beautiful glossy finish.

Layering with Precision

Discover the importance of patience in allowing each layer to properly set before adding the next, preventing color bleeding and maintaining distinct beautiful layers.

Professional Cutting Method

Master the final presentation technique of cutting clean squares using proper knife heating and wiping method for bakery-quality edges that showcase all three layers.

Mastering the Perfect Peppermint Brownie Layers

Temperature Control: Ensure all ingredients for the cream layer are at room temperature for smoothest texture and easiest spreading without tearing the brownie layer beneath.

Baking Precision: Do not overbake the brownie base - slight underbaking creates the fudgiest texture, and remember brownies continue cooking slightly as they cool in the hot pan.

Candy Selection: Use high-quality peppermint candies or candy canes and crush them just before using to prevent them from becoming sticky from humidity exposure.

Layer Assembly: Each layer must be completely cooled and set before adding the next layer to prevent mixing and maintain distinct beautiful layers when cut.

Cutting Technique: For cleanest cuts, use a large sharp knife heated under hot water and dried completely, then wipe clean after each cut for professional-looking edges.

Flavor Variation: Adjust peppermint extract to taste starting with 1/2 teaspoon and adding more as desired, or substitute with 1/4 teaspoon pure mint extract for less intense flavor.

Ultimate Layered Peppermint Brownies with Fudgy Chocolate Base Creamy Peppermint Filling and Crushed Candy Topping

Name: Ultimate Layered Peppermint Brownies with Fudgy Chocolate Base Creamy Peppermint Filling and Crushed Candy Topping
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Brownie Base:; 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs, room temperature; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; For the Peppermint Cream Layer:; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon peppermint extract; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; For the Chocolate Peppermint Topping:; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes; For Special Equipment:; 9x13 inch baking pan; Parchment paper; Electric mixer

The ultimate layered peppermint brownies featuring rich fudgy chocolate, smooth cream cheese peppermint filling, and crushed candy cane topping. This holiday dessert combines the decadent richness of dark chocolate brownies with the cool refreshing burst of peppermint, creating an unforgettable three-layer experience that elevates the classic brownie to extraordinary heights perfect for Christmas celebrations, holiday cookie exchanges, or any time you crave the perfect balance of chocolate and mint.

Prep Time

20 Minutes

Cook Time

35 Minutes

Total Time

55 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Brownie Base:

1 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 cups granulated sugar

4 large eggs, room temperature

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

For the Peppermint Cream Layer:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

3 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon peppermint extract

2 tablespoons heavy cream

For the Chocolate Peppermint Topping:

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

For Special Equipment:

9x13 inch baking pan

Parchment paper

Electric mixer

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on sides for easy removal.

In large bowl, whisk together melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined, then add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Stir in vanilla extract, then sift in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder, mixing until just combined without overmixing.

Pour brownie batter into prepared pan and spread evenly, then bake for 30-35 minutes until toothpick inserted in center comes out with few moist crumbs.

Allow brownies to cool completely in pan on wire rack for at least 1 hour before adding layers.

Beat softened cream cheese and butter together with electric mixer until fluffy and smooth, about 3 minutes on medium-high speed.

Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time, then mix in peppermint extract and heavy cream, beating until light and spreadable.

Spread peppermint cream layer evenly over cooled brownie base using offset spatula, then refrigerate for 30 minutes until firm.

Heat heavy cream in microwave until just simmering, then pour over chocolate chips and let stand 2 minutes before stirring until smooth ganache forms.

Pour chocolate ganache over chilled peppermint layer and spread quickly before it sets, working from center outward.

Immediately sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over wet chocolate layer, pressing gently so pieces adhere.

Refrigerate brownies for at least 2 hours or until all layers are completely set before cutting.

Use parchment overhang to lift brownies from pan, then cut into 16 squares with sharp knife, wiping blade clean between cuts.

Serve chilled or at room temperature, storing leftovers covered in refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Ultimate Layered Peppermint Brownies with Fudgy Chocolate Base Creamy Peppermint Filling and Crushed Candy Topping

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Layered Peppermint Brownie Perfection

Ultimate Layered Peppermint Brownies with Fudgy Chocolate Base Creamy Peppermint Filling and Crushed Candy Topping

Ingredients

Instructions