Pin Recipe This dessert combines a fudgy chocolate brownie base with a smooth, creamy cheesecake layer scented with peppermint. The two are swirled together to create a marbled effect, then baked to set into bars. Peppermint candies add a refreshing crunch and festive flair. Perfect for celebrations or cozy gatherings, these bars balance rich chocolate with a cool minty twist. They require basic mixing and baking techniques and take under an hour to prepare and bake.
Easy to slice and serve, they keep well refrigerated for several days and can be customized by swapping peppermint for vanilla or using gluten-free flour blends.
I still remember the first winter I made these Peppermint Cheesecake Swirl Bars; their creamy cheesecake and rich chocolate brownie swirls instantly made my kitchen smell like holiday magic.
One evening, unexpected guests arrived just as I pulled these bars from the oven, and watching everyone’s faces light up made me know I had nailed it.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: I always melt it gently to keep the texture silky smooth for the brownie base.
- Granulated sugar: Using the right amount ensures the perfect balance between sweetness and richness.
- Large eggs: Fresh eggs help the batter bind beautifully and give that moist texture.
- Vanilla extract: A splash adds warmth and depth to the base flavors.
- All-purpose flour: I sift it to avoid any lumpy bits in the batter.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: It gives the brownie its deep chocolate flavor without overpowering the swirl.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances every other ingredient.
- Cream cheese: Softened is key for that creamy, luscious swirl.
- Peppermint extract: A little goes a long way to infuse the whole bar with that refreshing holiday spirit.
- Crushed peppermint candies: These add delightful texture and garnish that festive look.
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Warm your oven to 175°C and line a 22x22 cm baking pan with parchment paper leaving a handy overhang for easy removal later.
- Whisk the Brownie Base:
- In a big bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar until smooth, then add eggs and vanilla, mixing until well combined and glossy.
- Fold in Dry Ingredients:
- Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and salt into the wet mixture, gently folding until just blended to keep it tender.
- Spread Batter:
- Pour and spread three quarters of this rich batter evenly in the pan – already smells like a treat!
- Mix the Cheesecake Swirl:
- Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until silky, add egg and peppermint extract for that fresh kick. If you want a pretty swirl, a drop or two of red food coloring works wonders. Finally, fold in crushed peppermint candies for surprise bursts of flavor.
- Create the Swirl Effect:
- Dollop spoonfuls of this creamy mixture over the brownie layer, top with the remaining brownie batter, then swirl gently with a knife to get that marbled magic.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake for 33 to 36 minutes until the center sets but still moist; you can smell the festive aroma filling the kitchen.
- Cool and Chill:
- Allow the bars to cool fully in the pan, then refrigerate at least 2 hours before lifting out and cutting into squares. Don’t forget to garnish with extra peppermint candies for that final sparkle.
Pin Recipe This recipe became more than a seasonal snack; it turned into a warm tradition for gatherings, each bite reminding everyone of cozy winters and shared smiles.
Keeping It Fresh
Store your bars in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll stay wonderfully fresh for up to five days, perfect for unexpected guests or a sweet treat any time.
When You're Missing Something
If you’re out of peppermint extract, swapping in vanilla creates a classic, comforting cheesecake brownie that’s just as delightful — sometimes simplicity is best.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
Pair these bars with a steaming mug of hot chocolate or a light mint tea to amplify that festive feeling around the table.
- Last minute thought you'd call out as a friend leaves your kitchen
- Another 'oh wait one more thing' moment
- Final helpful note
Pin Recipe Thanks for spending a little time baking together — I can’t wait for you to try these and share the magic.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve the perfect swirl pattern?
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Drop spoonfuls of each batter in the pan, then gently swirl with a knife or skewer to create a marbled effect without overmixing.
- → Can I substitute peppermint extract?
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Yes, vanilla extract can be used for a classic flavor without the minty notes.
- → What is the best way to store these bars?
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Keep the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Can I make these gluten-free?
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Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make the bars suitable for gluten intolerance.
- → How do crushed peppermint candies affect the texture?
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The crushed candies add a subtle crunch and enhance the mint flavor, complementing the creamy and fudgy layers.
