York Peppermint Brownies
Decadent peppermint brownies with a rich chocolate base and peppermint patties layered throughout, perfect for chocolate lovers and festive occasions alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- In a large bowl, stir together the melted margarine, sugar, and vanilla.
- Add eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition.
- Stir until the mixture is well blended.
- In another bowl, combine flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing well.
- Reserve 2 cups of batter and set aside.
- Spread the remaining batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- Arrange peppermint patties in a single layer over the batter, about 1/2 inch apart.
- Spread the reserved batter over the peppermint patties.
- Bake for 50 minutes or until the brownies pull away from the edges of the pan.
- Allow to cool before cutting and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened chocolate instead of cocoa powder. You can substitute the margarine with butter for a more traditional taste. If you want a mintier kick, add a few drops of peppermint extract to the batter. Be sure not to overmix once the dry ingredients are added, as this can lead to dense brownies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They also pair well with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or whipped cream. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with crushed peppermint candies or serving alongside a cup of coffee. They make a delightful treat for gatherings or as a sweet complement to Philly-Style Cheese Steaks.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to a week. To reheat, microwave individual pieces for about 10-15 seconds until warm, or enjoy them cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of York Peppermint Brownies contains roughly 531 calories, with 10g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value) and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another type of chocolate instead of cocoa powder?
Yes, you can substitute cocoa powder with an equal amount of melted unsweetened chocolate for a richer taste. Just remember to adjust the fat content by reducing the margarine slightly, as melted chocolate contains cocoa butter.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
The brownies are done when they pull away from the edges of the pan and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. They may seem slightly underbaked, but they will continue to set as they cool.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the brownies a day in advance. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. This will enhance their flavor and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).