# Peppermint Mocha Brownies for the Holidays 🎄🍫
## Introduction
Welcome to our cozy corner of holiday recipes! Today, we’re going to be revealing the secrets to creating the most decadent and festive dessert of the season – Peppermint Mocha Brownies.
## Why Make this Peppermint Mocha Brownies Recipe?
Wonderfully moist with meltingly rich chocolate, a hint of coffee, and that refreshing zing of peppermint, these brownies will take your usual holiday desserts up a notch. Perfect for holiday parties, gifts, or simply a treat for yourself on a cold winter night.
## How to Make Peppermint Mocha Brownies
Creating these festive treats is as easy as combining a few basic ingredients and spending a bit of time in the kitchen, filled with the irresistible scent of baking brownies.
### Ingredients :
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup brewed coffee
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Crushed candy canes for topping
### Directions :
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Start by preheating the oven to 350°F
2. **Melt Butter and Add Ingredients:** Melt butter in a large saucepan, then stir in sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and brewed coffee.
3. **Incorporate Eggs and Extracts:** Cool the mixture slightly, then whisk in the eggs one at a time. Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts until well combined.
4. **Mix Flour and Chocolate Chips:** Gradually fold in the flour and chocolate chips until smooth.
5. **Bake:** Pour the mixture into the baking dish, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top, and bake for 30-35 minutes.
6. **Cool and Serve:** Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing into squares.
## How to Serve Peppermint Mocha Brownies
Serve these brownies as a delectable dessert after a holiday meal, or pair with hot cocoa for a cozy winter night in. They also make wonderful, edible holiday gifts!
## How to Store Peppermint Mocha Brownies
Store these brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To extend the freshness, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
## Tips to Make Peppermint Mocha Brownies
– Make sure not to overbake the brownies. They should be slightly moist in the middle to ensure they are fudgy and rich.
– Use high-quality chocolate and cocoa powder, as they are the key elements of these brownies.
– Brew strong coffee to enhance the mocha flavor.
– Allow brownies to cool completely before slicing, this prevents them from crumbling or falling apart.
## Variation (Optional)
For a slightly healthier version, you could swap out the all-purpose flour for whole wheat or almond flour.
## FAQs
**1. Can I use decaf coffee in the recipe?**
Yes, if you are sensitive to caffeine, feel free to use decaffeinated coffee.
**2. Can I use peppermint oil instead of peppermint extract?**
Yes, you can, but be careful with the quantity as peppermint oil is stronger than peppermint extract.
**3. Can the brownies be frozen?**
Yes, you can freeze the cooled and sliced brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Enjoy the festive season with these delightful Peppermint Mocha Brownies! 🎅❤️🍬