Description
A delightful layered dessert combining rich chocolate brownie, creamy filling, and festive peppermint for a nostalgic holiday treat.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Melt the butter in a large mixing bowl, then stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar until combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla.
- Fold in cocoa powder and flour until just combined.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes until a toothpick comes out with a few crumbs.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar and mix in peppermint extract.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on top of the baked brownie base.
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes or chocolate chips over the cream cheese layer.
- Return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Allow to cool completely before lifting out using parchment paper, then cut into squares.
Notes
For better slicing, chill the bars in the fridge before cutting. You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version or use vegan cream cheese as needed.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Christmas, dessert, brownie bars, holiday treats