Chocolate Peppermint Brownie Balls are a bite-sized holiday classic: fudgy brownie centers rolled with a hint of mint and dipped in glossy chocolate. I’ve made these for cookie exchanges and weeknight dessert cravings, and they’re always the first tray to disappear. They’re quick to assemble and forgiving, which makes them perfect for busy home cooks.
Why Make This Recipe
- Rich, fudgy chocolate flavor balanced by bright peppermint makes each bite irresistible.
- No fancy tools required—just a mixer or spatula, cookie scoop, and a microwave or double boiler.
- They’re excellent for gifting, parties, or make-ahead holiday trays because they store well.
- You can use leftover brownies or a boxed mix to save time without sacrificing taste.
- Personal insight: I love this recipe because it transforms ordinary brownies into elegant bite-sized treats that feel special with minimal extra work. Also, if you like brownie bombs, try this related recipe: Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs (https://www.meinlabradorretriever.com/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-brownie-bombs/).
Recipe Overview
- Prep time: 25 minutes (plus chilling)
- Cook time: 20–25 minutes for homemade brownies (or use store-bought)
- Total time: About 1 hour including chill time
- Servings: Makes ~30 brownie balls (1 inch / 1 tbsp each)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Method: Bake (or use pre-baked brownies), crumble and bind the brownie crumbs with a bit of frosting or cream cheese, roll, chill, then dip in melted chocolate and decorate with crushed peppermint.
My Experience Making This Recipe
When I first tested these, the biggest learning was chilling time: the mixture needs at least 20–30 minutes to firm up so the balls hold shape. I also learned that using a small cookie scoop creates uniform pieces that look professional when dipped.
How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Brownie Balls
Start by baking a 9×13 pan of brownies at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, then cool completely. Crumble the cooled brownies into a large bowl and mix in 1/2–3/4 cup of cream cheese frosting or softened cream cheese to bind; add 1/2–1 teaspoon peppermint extract to taste. Scoop and roll tablespoon-sized balls, chill them on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20–30 minutes, then dip each in melted semi-sweet chocolate (melt at low power in 15–20 second bursts or use a double boiler). Finish with crushed candy cane or a drizzle of white chocolate and let set at room temperature or chill briefly.
Expert Tips for Success
- Chill the mixture: Refrigerate the brownie-frosting mixture for at least 20 minutes to make rolling easier and neater.
- Use a small cookie scoop: A 1-tablespoon scoop yields uniform balls that dip evenly and set consistently.
- Melt chocolate gently: Use a double boiler or microwave in 15–20 second bursts, stirring between, to avoid seizing. A candy thermometer isn’t required, but keep melted chocolate below 90°F for best shine.
- Prevent moisture: Ensure there’s no water on tools — even a drop can make the chocolate seize. Dry spatulas and bowls thoroughly.
- Quality ingredients matter: Choose a good-quality semi-sweet chocolate for dipping and pure peppermint extract (not mint oil) to avoid bitter notes.
How to Serve Chocolate Peppermint Brownie Balls
- Party platter: Arrange on a parchment-lined tray with mini holiday candies and powdered sugar dusting.
- Gift boxes: Pack in small tins or cellophane bags with tissue paper for holiday gifts.
- Dessert plate: Serve three balls per person with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or hot chocolate for a cozy pairing.
- Presentation tip: Use colored sprinkles or crushed peppermint for contrast and a festive touch.
Storage and Reheating Guide
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days; separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Freezing: Freeze uncoated or coated balls on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheating: Let chilled balls come to room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving for best texture. If you prefer slightly warm centers, microwave one ball for 8–10 seconds on medium power (test first).
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free brownies or a boxed gluten-free brownie mix to make the base gluten-free.
- Dairy-free: Substitute vegan butter, dairy-free cream cheese, and dairy-free chocolate for dipping. Make sure to choose dairy-free peppermint extract-friendly products.
- Extra minty: Fold 1/4 cup finely crushed peppermint candies into the brownie mixture for texture and extra peppermint bursts.
- Boozy version: Add 1–2 tablespoons of peppermint schnapps or crème de menthe to the binding frosting for adult-only treats; reduce liquid elsewhere if mixture gets too soft.
Nutritional Highlights
- These are indulgent treats—rich in fat and sugar—so portion control (1–2 balls) helps keep servings reasonable.
- Peppermint adds flavor without calories, and using dark chocolate can slightly increase antioxidant content compared to milk chocolate.
- Allergen note: Contains gluten (unless modified), dairy (unless using alternatives), and eggs if you bake homemade brownies; read ingredient labels for boxed mixes.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Mixture too wet or sticky: Add more crumbled brownie or chill the mixture longer; a tablespoon of cocoa powder can help absorb excess moisture.
- Chocolate coating cracks or dulls: Avoid rapid temperature changes; let coated balls set at room temperature or chill briefly, and don’t refrigerate immediately if you want shine.
- Balls fall apart after dipping: Ensure the center is well chilled and reasonably firm before dipping; thin the melted chocolate slightly with a teaspoon of coconut oil for a smoother coating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use boxed brownies or leftover brownies?
A: Absolutely. Boxed or leftover baked brownies work well. Crumble them finely and adjust binding (frosting or cream cheese) a tablespoon at a time to get a firm, rollable texture.
Q: How much peppermint extract should I use?
A: Start with 1/2 teaspoon for a subtle flavor and increase up to 1 teaspoon for pronounced mint. Peppermint extract is potent, so add gradually and taste the batter.
Q: Can I make these ahead for a party?
A: Yes—make and dip them up to 3 days ahead and store in an airtight container in the fridge, or freeze for longer storage and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Q: My melted chocolate seized—what can I do?
A: If chocolate seizes from moisture, you can sometimes smooth it with a teaspoon of neutral oil or 1 tablespoon of warm heavy cream (if not dairy-free). If that fails, start with new chocolate and ensure all utensils are bone-dry.
Conclusion
Looking for more peppermint brownie ideas or variations? Check these useful resources for inspiration and alternate techniques: Peppermint Brownie Truffles – Inside BruCrew Life, Chocolate Peppermint Brownie Balls – The Soccer Mom Blog, Chocolate Mint Brownie Bites, Peppermint Brownie Bites – The Dizzy Cook, and a low-carb take at Peppermint Brownie Balls (Gluten/DairySugar-Free) – Pretty Pies.
Chocolate Peppermint Brownie Balls
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 30 brownie balls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Bite-sized holiday treats with fudgy brownie centers, a hint of mint, and a glossy chocolate coating.
Ingredients
- 1 batch homemade brownies (or store-bought)
- 1/2–3/4 cup cream cheese frosting or softened cream cheese
- 1/2–1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate for dipping
- Crushed candy cane for decoration
Instructions
- Bake brownies in a 9×13 pan at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, then cool completely.
- Crumble cooled brownies in a large bowl and mix with cream cheese frosting or cream cheese.
- Add peppermint extract to taste.
- Scoop and roll tablespoon-sized balls, chill on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20–30 minutes.
- Dip each ball in melted semi-sweet chocolate and decorate with crushed candy cane.
- Let set at room temperature or chill briefly.
Notes
Use quality ingredients for the chocolate and peppermint extract. Chill the mixture for easier rolling.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American