Peppermint Shortbread Brownie Layer Bars
Peppermint Shortbread Brownie Layer Bars are an irresistible dessert that combines rich brownie layers, buttery shortbread, and a refreshing peppermint cream. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in, these bars offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will leave everyone reaching for seconds. With their stunning presentation and delicious taste, they are sure to impress your guests and become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder (high-quality)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp peppermint extract (pure)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, melt butter and mix with granulated sugar until combined. Stir in cocoa powder, then add eggs one at a time until smooth.
- Fold in flour gently until just combined. Pour batter into pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- While brownies cool, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually mix in powdered sugar and peppermint extract until fluffy.
- Spread the peppermint mixture over cooled brownies, sprinkle chocolate chips on top, and chill until set.
- Slice into squares and serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: For easier cutting, chill the bars in the refrigerator for an hour before slicing. Swap peppermint extract for vanilla if you prefer a different flavor. Add crushed candy canes on top for extra crunch.