Chocolate Peppermint Brownie Balls: Festive Fudge Treats

When the holidays roll around, it’s hard to resist sweet treats that bring both joy and indulgence. These Chocolate Peppermint Brownie Balls are the perfect festive dessert — rich, fudgy brownies transformed into bite-sized delights, coated in smooth chocolate, and finished with a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for a cheerful holiday crunch.

Whether you’re preparing treats for a party, gifting a batch to friends, or simply satisfying your own sweet tooth, these brownie balls are quick, fun to make, and absolutely irresistible. The combination of chocolate and peppermint delivers a classic holiday flavor that appeals to both kids and adults.

This recipe is versatile and forgiving, allowing you to adjust the level of peppermint flavor or even substitute the chocolate coating with white chocolate or milk chocolate. With easy-to-follow steps, you can have a platter of festive treats ready in no time.

Ingredients

Brownie Base

• 1 box standard brownie mix, including required ingredients as per package directions

Filling

• 1/2 cup chocolate frosting

Coating

• 8 oz Ghirardelli melting chocolate
• 1 cup crushed candy canes, divided

Instructions

1. Bake the brownies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray. Prepare the brownie batter according to the package instructions and pour it evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the brownies are set. Allow them to cool completely at room temperature.

2. Prepare the brownie mixture

Once cooled, crumble the brownies into a large mixing bowl using your hands. Add chocolate frosting and mix thoroughly until a thick, dough-like consistency forms. Fold in 1/4 cup of the crushed candy canes for a hint of peppermint flavor in every bite.

3. Shape the brownie balls

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, portion the dough into uniform balls and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This ensures that the brownie balls do not stick while being coated.

4. Melt the chocolate

Chop the Ghirardelli melting chocolate into small pieces for easier melting. Place in a microwave-safe bowl and melt in 20-second intervals, stirring between each until fully smooth. Continuous stirring prevents the chocolate from burning and ensures a silky coating.

5. Coat the brownie balls

Dip each brownie ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring full coverage. Place the coated balls back onto the parchment-lined sheet. While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the remaining crushed candy canes over the top to add color, flavor, and a festive crunch.

6. Allow to set

Let the chocolate coating set completely at room temperature before serving or storing. For faster setting, you can refrigerate the brownie balls for 10-15 minutes.

Tips and Tricks

• Chocolate melting tips: Chop the chocolate into small pieces before microwaving. Stir frequently and avoid overheating to prevent burning.
• Uniform sizing: Use a cookie scoop to ensure all brownie balls are the same size for even coating and presentation.
• Storage: Store the brownie balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Flavor variations: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the brownie mixture for a more intense peppermint flavor, or use white chocolate for the coating for a sweeter twist.
• Presentation: Place the finished brownie balls in festive cupcake liners or arrange them on a holiday platter for a beautiful holiday display.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Brownie balls can be made a day or two in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Coat with chocolate on the day you plan to serve for the freshest appearance.

2. Can I freeze these brownie balls?
Absolutely. Place uncoated brownie balls on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When ready to serve, thaw slightly and dip in melted chocolate, then sprinkle with candy canes.

3. Can I use a different chocolate for the coating?
Yes! Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate can all be used. Each variation gives a slightly different flavor profile, so choose based on your preference.

4. Do I have to use crushed candy canes?
No, they can be swapped with crushed peppermint candies or even sprinkles for a different look and texture. Candy canes provide that classic peppermint holiday flavor.

5. Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free brownie mix and ensure your chocolate frosting and chocolate coating are gluten-free.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Peppermint Brownie Balls are the perfect holiday treat: decadent, festive, and fun to make. With a fudgy brownie base, creamy chocolate filling, and a peppermint-coated exterior, they’re guaranteed to delight friends, family, and party guests alike.

Whether you’re gifting them, adding them to a dessert buffet, or enjoying them with a cup of hot cocoa, these brownie balls are a simple yet impressive way to celebrate the season. With easy-to-follow steps, versatile ingredients, and festive appeal, they are a must-add to your holiday dessert repertoire.

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