Name: Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites for the Perfect Holiday Indulgence
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 31 min
Ingredients: 1 box Dark Chocolate Brownie Mix (Can substitute with a regular fudge brownie mix); 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (For chewy texture and structure); 2 large Eggs (Essential for binding the mixture); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Melted) (Can substitute with vegetable oil); 1/4 cup Chocolate Syrup (Intensifies chocolate flavor); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Adds depth of flavor); 1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips (Adjust amount to liking); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (For coating the cookies); 1/2 cup Crushed Candy Canes or Peppermints (Add post-baking for crunch); 12 pieces Hershey Kisses (Press into cookies while warm)

As I reached for the festive candy canes sitting on my kitchen counter, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. There’s something uniquely charming about holiday baking that transforms even the simplest of treats into a joyful celebration. Today, I’m excited to share my Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites, a quick and delightful twist on traditional brownies that perfectly captures the spirit of the season. With just a few ingredients, including a convenient brownie mix, these cookies will not only satisfy your chocolate cravings but also bring a touch of holiday cheer to your gatherings. They’re ideal for busy bakers, ready in no time, and sure to be a hit at any Christmas party. Are you ready to add a sprinkle of holiday magic to your baking?

Why Will You Love These Brownie Bites?

Simple Recipe: Just a few ingredients and a brownie mix mean you can whip these up in no time!
Festive Flavor: The peppermint kisses combined with crushed candy canes create a delightful holiday experience.
Crowd Pleaser: Bake a batch for your Christmas party and watch them vanish—everyone loves a good brownie!
Customizable Options: Switch up the brownie mix or try white chocolate kisses for a unique twist.
Convenient Storage: Keep them fresh for days in an airtight container, or freeze the dough for last-minute baking!

Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites Ingredients

For the Brownie Mixture
• Dark Chocolate Brownie Mix – This is the base of the cookie, providing a rich chocolate flavor; you can substitute with a regular fudge brownie mix for varied taste.
• All-Purpose Flour – Added to create the perfect chewy texture and structure for your bites.
• Eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients together while adding moisture to the mix.
• Unsalted Butter (Melted) – Brings richness and fudginess; feel free to use vegetable oil for a lighter alternative.
• Chocolate Syrup – Intensifies the fudgy, chocolatey goodness; omitting it will make cookies drier and more cake-like.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds a lovely depth of flavor to enhance the overall taste.

For the Topping
• Mini Chocolate Chips – These chips provide delightful pockets of melted chocolate; adjust the amount to your liking.
• Granulated Sugar – Coats the cookies to create a sweet, sugary exterior, adding extra crunch.
• Crushed Candy Canes or Peppermints – Crucial for that festive flavor and crunch; add them post-baking for best results in your Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites.
• Hershey Kisses – Soft chocolate candies to place on top for a sweet finish; they melt a little when added warm, creating a luscious treat.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites don’t stick. The smell of warming oven will set the perfect tone for your holiday baking!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine your dark chocolate brownie mix with the all-purpose flour. Stir them together until well mixed, ensuring no dry pockets remain. This blend forms the foundation of your cookies, creating that rich chocolatey flavor you love.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Next, add the eggs, melted unsalted butter, chocolate syrup, and vanilla extract into the dry mixture. Use a spatula or spoon to gently stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick and deliciously fudgy, ready for the next step.

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips into your brownie batter. This will create delightful pockets of melty chocolate throughout each bite. Make sure these tiny chips are evenly distributed for maximum chocolatey goodness in your Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites.

Step 5: Shape & Coat Cookies
Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Then, roll each ball in granulated sugar for a sweet, crunchy exterior. Space them about 1.5 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets, as they will spread a little while baking.

Step 6: Bake the Bites
Place your baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 7 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should look slightly puffed and set with a beautiful outer crust. The aroma of melting chocolate and peppermint will fill your home, making the wait worthwhile!

Step 7: Add Festive Toppings
Immediately after removing your Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites from the oven, sprinkle them generously with crushed candy canes. Then, press a Hershey Kiss gently into the center of each cookie while they’re still warm. This will ensure the chocolate melts slightly and adheres beautifully.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 8-9 minutes. This lets them firm up just enough to handle. Afterward, transfer your delightful treats to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the candy canes and kisses to set for an irresistible holiday treat!

How to Store and Freeze Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites

Room Temperature: Store your brownie bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them soft and delicious.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookie dough before baking. Roll into balls, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: If you want to enjoy your brownie bites warm, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just enough to restore that gooey center while keeping the edges just right.

Thawing: When ready to bake from frozen, there’s no need to thaw! Simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for your Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites.

What to Serve with Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites?

Indulging in chocolatey treats is even better when paired with delightful companions that elevate your holiday gathering.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the rich chocolate flavors, creating a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist. The combination of warm brownie bites and cold ice cream is a comforting, nostalgic favorite for many.
Hot Chocolate: Cozy up with a warm cup of rich hot chocolate, topped with whipped cream or marshmallows. This indulgent drink will enhance the peppermint flavor, making each bite even more festive.
Peppermint Tea: A soothing cup of peppermint tea offers a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the brownie bites. Its herbal notes create a lovely harmony, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit adds a light and refreshing contrast. The juiciness of berries and citrus offsets the richness of the brownie bites, making for a well-rounded dessert spread that pleases every palate.
Chocolate Milkshake: For an extra indulgent experience, serve a thick and creamy chocolate milkshake. The combination of flavors and textures creates a rich dessert that feels like a sweet dream come true.
Coffee or Espresso: A hot cup of coffee or a shot of espresso complements the chocolate and peppermint notes perfectly. This pairing adds depth and intensity to your dessert experience, making it a great choice for those looking to add a sophisticated touch.

Each pairing creates a unique experience, transforming your Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites into a centerpiece for holiday magic!

Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites Variations

Feel free to put your creative spin on these charmingly festive treats and make them your own!

Flavor Swap: Try Caramel Brownie Mix instead of dark chocolate for a sweet twist that’s equally delicious. Just imagine that rich caramel complementing the peppermint!
Peppermint Extract: Substitute Vanilla Extract with peppermint extract for an even more intense holiday flavor. This simple change makes every bite feel like a winter wonderland!
White Chocolate Kisses: Use White Chocolate Kisses in place of regular for a stunning contrast against the chocolate brownie. The sweetness of white chocolate paired with peppermint is simply heavenly.
Nutty Crunch: Add Chopped Nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) to the mix for a delightful crunch. It gives your brownie bites an extra layer of texture that your guests will love!
Mini Marshmallows: For a gooey center, fold in some Mini Marshmallows into the batter before baking. Picture that melting marshmallow oozing out with every bite!
Spicy Kick: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of Cayenne Pepper to the batter. The gentle heat will contrast beautifully with the sweet peppermint flavors.
Candy Cane Variation: Experiment with Different Candy Toppings, such as crushed Oreo cookies or festive sprinkles, to add color and a fun twist to your brownie bites.
Layered Treats: For a two-layer treat, bake the brownie bites halfway, add a layer of peppermint frosting before finishing the bake. This extra step will impress at any holiday gathering.

Embrace these variations and share your flavorful creations, or check out my Crispy Smashed Carrots Bites for a savory holiday side that pairs beautifully with your sweet desserts!

Tips for the Best Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites

Baking Time Matters: Keep an eye on your brownie bites while baking—overbaking can lead to a dry texture.

Mix With Care: Avoid overmixing your batter when combining wet and dry ingredients; this ensures soft, fudgy Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites.

Chill the Dough: If the batter feels too soft, refrigerate it for a few minutes before shaping; this helps maintain their form while baking.

Top at the Right Time: Add crushed candy canes and Hershey Kisses immediately after baking, so they melt slightly and stick, enhancing your brownie bites’ flavor.

Store Smart: Keep your brownie bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer freshness, freeze the cookie dough and bake as needed.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites are an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to take the stress out of last-minute holiday baking! You can prepare the brownie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients together and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, shape the cookie balls and roll them in sugar, then refrigerate them for up to 3 days before baking. Just remember to add the crushed candy canes and Hershey Kisses right after baking to maintain their fresh appearance. When you’re ready to indulge, simply bake them straight from the fridge and enjoy the same deliciously fudgy results with minimal effort!

Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites Recipe FAQs

What kind of brownie mix works best for Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites?
Absolutely! I recommend using a dark chocolate brownie mix for a rich and fudgy flavor. However, if you’d like a different twist, you can substitute it with a regular fudge brownie mix for a slightly milder taste.

How should I store these brownie bites?
To keep your Easy Peppermint Brownie Bites fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 to 5 days. This will keep them soft and delicious. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookie dough and bake as needed.

Can I freeze the cookie dough? If so, how?
Very much! To freeze the cookie dough, scoop out individual portions and roll them into balls. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Once firm, transfer the cookie dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, you can pop them in the oven straight from the freezer—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time!

How do I know when my brownie bites are done baking?
Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; you want them to look puffed and slightly set, with a moist, fudgy center. The total baking time is about 7 minutes. If they start cracking on the surface, that’s a great indicator that they’re ready to come out.

Can I modify this recipe for dietary needs?
Certainly! If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, you can substitute the eggs with a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg). Also, for a dairy-free option, use a vegan brownie mix and replace melted butter with coconut oil or any dairy-free butter substitute. Enjoy the flexibility!