Peppermint Swirl Brownies

If you’re dreaming of a festive dessert that combines rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and refreshing peppermint, these Peppermint Swirl Brownies are your ultimate holiday treat. Picture fudgy brownies layered with a smooth peppermint cheesecake filling, swirled with peppermint chips or crushed candy canes—each bite is indulgent, chocolatey, and perfectly minty. These brownies are ideal for holiday parties, cozy winter nights, or gifting to friends and family. They’re as beautiful as they are delicious, making them a must-bake this festive season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fudgy, rich brownies with a creamy peppermint cheesecake layer
• Perfect balance of chocolate and mint—classic holiday flavors
• Beautifully swirled with peppermint chips or candy canes
• Make-ahead friendly; chills well for easy slicing and serving
• Ideal for holiday gatherings, dessert platters, or gifting

Ingredients

Brownie Layer

• Large eggs (4, room temperature) – Adds structure and richness.
• Granulated sugar (2 cups) – Sweetens the fudgy base.
• Unsalted butter (¾ cup, melted) – Adds richness and moisture.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Enhances chocolate flavor.
• All-purpose flour (1½ cups) – Forms the structure of the brownies.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (⅓ cup) – Delivers deep chocolate flavor.
• Baking powder (½ tsp) – Gives slight lift for a tender texture.
• Kosher salt (¼ tsp) – Balances sweetness and intensifies flavor.
• Peppermint chips or crushed candy canes (½ cup) – Adds festive minty crunch.

Peppermint Cheesecake Layer

• Cream cheese (16 oz, room temperature) – Provides creamy cheesecake texture.
• Sour cream (¼ cup, room temperature) – Adds tang and smoothness.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens the cheesecake layer.
• Lemon juice (½ tbsp) – Brightens flavor and balances richness.
• Peppermint extract (1 tsp) – Infuses classic mint flavor.
• Large eggs (2, room temperature) – Helps the cheesecake set.
• Peppermint chips or crushed candy canes (1½ cups, divided) – Adds festive crunch and flavor.

How to Make Peppermint Swirl Brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Layer

In a large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined. Stir in ½ cup peppermint chips or crushed candy canes.

Step 3: Par-Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes. The top should be set but not fully baked—this ensures a chewy, fudgy texture.

Step 4: Make the Peppermint Cheesecake Layer

Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream, sugar, lemon juice, and peppermint extract, mixing until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each. Stir in the remaining ½ cup peppermint chips or crushed candy canes.

Step 5: Assemble and Swirl

Pour the cheesecake layer over the partially baked brownies. Sprinkle additional peppermint chips on top. Use a knife to gently swirl the cheesecake and chocolate layers together for a beautiful marbled effect.

Step 6: Bake Again

Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set and the edges are lightly golden.

Step 7: Cool and Chill

Allow the brownies to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into 16 bars. Chilling ensures clean slices and perfect texture.

Tips for Success

• Bring all dairy ingredients to room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Par-bake the brownie layer for chewy texture and better layer separation.
• Chill fully before slicing to prevent cheesecake from cracking.
• Use crushed candy canes or peppermint chips to add festive crunch.
• Store chilled in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife for swirling

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Peppermint Swirl: Add mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer.
• Double Mint: Increase peppermint extract slightly for a more intense mint flavor.
• Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the brownie layer.
• White Chocolate Peppermint: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled brownies for extra decadence.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled with a hot cup of cocoa for a festive treat.
• Cut into small squares for a holiday dessert platter or cookie swap.
• Pair with peppermint ice cream for a minty chocolate dessert duo.
• Wrap in parchment and tie with ribbon for edible gifts.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the brownies a day in advance and store them in the fridge. They actually taste even better after chilling.

Can I use a different chocolate layer?
Yes, substitute cocoa powder with your favorite chocolate brownie mix, but adjust baking time as needed.

How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake layer?
Beat the cream cheese thoroughly and avoid overmixing after adding eggs. Bake until just set and chill completely before slicing.

Can I freeze the brownies?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Can I use peppermint extract instead of chips?
Peppermint chips or crushed candy canes provide both flavor and texture, but you can adjust extract levels for extra minty taste.

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Final Thoughts

These Peppermint Swirl Brownies are the ultimate festive dessert—fudgy, creamy, and minty with a visually stunning swirl. Perfect for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or indulging yourself, they bring rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint together in every bite. Make them ahead, slice them up, and watch them disappear at your holiday table. Each bar is a delicious celebration of winter flavors!