Description
These Dark Chocolate Peppermint Brownies are a decadent, low-sugar treat combining rich dark chocolate with refreshing peppermint flavor. Made with almond flour and no-sugar-added sweeteners, these brownies feature a moist chocolate base topped with a creamy peppermint layer and festive sprinkles, perfect for holiday celebrations or any time you want a guilt-conscious indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Base
- 6 Tablespoons butter or coconut oil
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1 large egg plus 1 large yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup no-sugar-added applesauce
- 3/4 cup blanched almond flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder (Special Dark or natural)
- 3 Tablespoons granulated monk fruit sweetener or granulated stevia
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Peppermint Topping
- 1/2 cup coconut cream
- 1 large egg
- 2 Tablespoons granulated monk fruit sweetener or granulated stevia
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Festive sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray an 8-inch square baking pan with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butter or coconut oil. Microwave on high for about 60 seconds until almost melted, then stir until the mixture is completely smooth and fully combined.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Stir in the whole egg and egg yolk, then mix in the vanilla extract and unsweetened applesauce until thoroughly incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, cocoa powder, granulated sweetener, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients and stir until well blended.
- Spread Brownie Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly to create a smooth layer. Set aside while you prepare the peppermint topping.
- Mix Peppermint Topping: In another bowl, whisk the coconut cream and one large egg until combined. Stir in the granulated sweetener and peppermint extract until the mixture is smooth.
- Add Topping to Brownies: Carefully pour the peppermint mixture over the chocolate brownie batter in the pan, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
- Add Sprinkles: If using, distribute festive sprinkles evenly on top of the peppermint layer for a decorative touch.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a tester or toothpick; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Chill and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool, then refrigerate them thoroughly before slicing. Chilling ensures the layers set properly and enhances the texture and flavor.
Notes
- Using Special Dark cocoa powder intensifies the chocolate flavor but natural cocoa powder works fine too.
- Chilling the brownies before slicing is essential to maintain the peppermint topping and to get clean slices.
- Substitute coconut oil for butter to make the recipe dairy-free.
- Sweeteners like monk fruit or stevia make this recipe lower in sugar, suitable for sugar-conscious diets.
- Use an 8-inch square pan for the right thickness and bake time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: dark chocolate brownies, peppermint brownies, low sugar brownies, keto brownies, gluten free brownies, holiday dessert
