As the chill settles in and festive lights begin to twinkle, the scent of peppermint and white chocolate fills my kitchen, igniting memories of holiday joy and warm gatherings. The delightful combination of flavors is perfectly captured in my White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies, a treat that’s as easy to whip up as it is to share with loved ones. After a long week juggling work and holiday preparations, I found myself craving the sweetness of homemade desserts without the fuss. These blondies deliver that indulgence in every bite, with a gooey center, a sweet drizzle of chocolate, and just the right crunch from crushed candy canes.
Whether you’re planning a festive dessert table or just in need of a cozy, satisfying snack to enjoy with a warm drink, these blondies are your answer. Trust me, they’ll become a new holiday staple that impresses guests without requiring you to spend hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to bring smiles and warmth to your home!
Why are White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies a must-try?
Deliciously festive: These blondies encapsulate the holiday spirit with a delightful blend of peppermint and white chocolate that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you won’t need to be a professional chef to impress your friends and family.
Perfect for sharing: Bake a tray and watch them disappear at parties, gatherings, or cozy nights in.
Customizable joy: Feel free to switch up the toppings, like adding nuts or your favorite candies, to make them uniquely yours!
Quick bake: In just 25-30 minutes, you can have these delectable treats ready to enjoy fresh from the oven.
Indulge in these White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies and create delightful memories this holiday season!
Ingredients for White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies
For the Blondie Batter
- Butter – adds a rich flavor and a tender texture to your blondies.
- Sugar – balances sweetness; feel free to experiment with brown sugar for a deeper flavor!
- Brown Sugar – provides moisture and enhances caramel notes in the blondies.
- Eggs – binds the ingredients together, creating a soft and chewy consistency.
- Flour – the main structure; substituting with almond flour can give a gluten-free option.
- Salt – elevates the sweetness, allowing the flavors to shine.
- Peppermint Extract – gives a refreshing holiday punch; adjust if you prefer a milder taste.
- Vanilla – enhances overall flavor and complements the peppermint.
- White Chocolate Chips – these sweet morsels melt into each bite, creating gooey perfection.
For the Drizzle
- White Chocolate Chips – for drizzling; they add a rich creamy finish and visual appeal.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – adds a contrasting flavor that balances the sweetness.
For the Topping
- Crushed Candy Cane – sprinkle over warm blondies for a festive crunch and a pop of color!
These White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies are the perfect way to spread holiday cheer with every delicious bite!
How to Make White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking. This step helps your blondies bake evenly and develop that gorgeous golden color.
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Line a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with foil and then spray it lightly with baking spray. This prevents sticking and makes for easy removal later.
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Cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a mixing bowl. Beat until the mixture is fluffy and light; this should take about 2-3 minutes.
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Incorporate the eggs and both extracts—peppermint and vanilla—into the sugar mixture, mixing until everything is well combined and smooth.
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Gradually add the flour and salt to the bowl. Stir gently until blended; be careful not to overmix, which could make your blondies dense.
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Fold in the white chocolate chips, ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter. These chips will melt beautifully, creating gooey pockets of sweetness.
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Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out slightly gooey.
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Cool the blondies for a few minutes before carefully lifting them out of the pan using the foil. Let them sit on a wire rack to cool completely.
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Melt 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, then drizzle over the cooled blondies. Use a spoon or fork to create a delightful pattern!
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Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and drizzle them over the blondies as well, adding a nice contrast to the sweetness of the white chocolate.
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Sprinkle the crushed candy cane over the top while the chocolate is still wet, ensuring it sticks. This adds a festive and crunchy touch to your blondies.
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies
Room Temperature: Keep the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This ensures they stay soft and chewy, perfect for snacking!
Fridge: For longer freshness, store the blondies in the fridge for up to a week. Place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: You can freeze white chocolate peppermint blondies for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for best results.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen blondies, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or microwave for a few seconds for that just-baked warmth.
What to Serve with White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies?
Get ready to elevate your dessert experience with delightful accompaniments that complement the rich, sweet flavors of these festive blondies.
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Hot Cocoa: The classic combination of warm chocolate with hints of peppermint enhances the holiday spirit, making each bite even more indulgent.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla adds a delightful contrast to the chewy texture, creating a delicious balance of flavors that melts in your mouth.
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Fresh Berries: The juicy tartness of raspberries or strawberries cuts through the sweetness, adding a refreshing element that brightens up each bite.
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Coffee or Espresso: A cup of rich, aromatic coffee provides a warm and cozy experience, balancing the sweetness with its depth and intensity.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream on top adds an elegant finish, making every serving even more indulgent and satisfying.
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Mint Tea: For a cozy twist, serve these blondies with a comforting cup of peppermint or chamomile tea, enhancing the seasonal vibes of your dessert.
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Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a bit of this luscious sauce over your blondies takes them to an extravagant level, adding a sweet and salty flavor explosion.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Enhance the existing drizzles with a touch of dark chocolate to deepen the flavor profile while providing a beautiful gourmet appearance.
Pairing your White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies with these delightful options ensures a memorable dessert experience that will warm hearts and create joyful gatherings!
Make Ahead Options
These White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time during busy holiday weeks! You can mix the blondie batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking—just be sure to cover it tightly to keep it fresh and prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can bake the blondies in advance, then let them cool completely. Once cooled, slice them and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply drizzle with melted chocolate and crushed candy canes for a festive touch; they’ll be just as delicious as if freshly made!
Expert Tips for White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter that blends well, ensuring the perfect texture in your blondies.
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Don’t Overmix: When adding the flour, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense blondies instead of the desired chewy consistency.
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Check for Doneness: A toothpick inserted should come out slightly gooey, as the blondies will continue to firm up while cooling. Avoid baking them until completely dry!
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Customize with Toppings: Feel free to mix in chopped nuts, or other festive treats like M&M’s for added texture and flavor. Make your White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies truly unique!
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Drizzling Technique: Melt your chocolate slowly to avoid burning, and drizzle it with a fork for a beautiful finish. This adds an elegant touch to your delicious blondies.
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Storage Tip: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to keep them moist and fresh.
White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these blondies! Customize them to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
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Nutty Twist: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for an added crunch and rich, nutty flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness.
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Egg-Free: For a vegan option, swap eggs with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce to maintain moisture and binding.
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Minty Boost: Use crushed peppermint candies instead of candy canes for a more intense mint flavor that adds a delightful brightness to the blondies.
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Chocolate Lovers’ Dream: Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips alongside the white chocolate chips for a delightful contrast and a richer chocolate experience.
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Seasonal Spice: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter for a warm spice that pairs beautifully with the sweetness and minty freshness.
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Coconut Delight: Fold in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist that adds a chewy texture and a pleasant surprise.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love some heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter. The warmth will create an exciting flavor contrast with the sweetness!
White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies Recipe FAQs
How can I select the best ingredients for my White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies?
Absolutely! For the freshest flavors, choose unsalted butter that’s at room temperature for proper creaming with the sugars. Look for high-quality white chocolate chips that melt smoothly and add richness. For the peppermint extract, opt for pure extract rather than imitation for a stronger, more authentic peppermint flavor.
How should I store my White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies, and how long will they last?
I recommend keeping your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This helps maintain their softness and lovely chewiness. If you’re looking to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week, but be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Can I freeze my White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies? If yes, how?
Very! To freeze your blondies, first, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each blondie individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Place them in a freezer bag, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge or microwave them for a few seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
What if my blondies turn out too dry?
No worries! If you’ve accidentally baked them too long, you can revive their moisture by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top or serving with whipped cream. For next time, keep an eye on them while baking: they should look golden brown around the edges, and the center should remain slightly gooey when you insert a toothpick.
Are these White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies safe for people with common allergies?
You might want to take care! These blondies contain gluten (from flour), dairy (from butter and chocolate), and eggs. If you’re accommodating dietary considerations, consider substituting almond flour for a gluten-free version, using dairy-free butter and chocolate chips, and substituting flax eggs for the regular eggs. Always check labels to ensure the ingredients are safe for those with allergies.
Can I customize the toppings for my White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies?
Absolutely! The beauty of baking is that you can personalize your treats. Instead of crushed candy canes, you might try chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch. Alternatively, mix in festive sprinkles or mini chocolate candies to celebrate the season! Let your creativity shine while making these delightful White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies!
Irresistible White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies for the Holidays
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Line a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with foil and spray with baking spray.
- Cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Incorporate eggs and both extracts into the sugar mixture.
- Gradually add flour and salt; stir gently until blended.
- Fold in white chocolate chips.
- Spread the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out slightly gooey.
- Cool for a few minutes, then lift out using foil and let sit on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Melt white chocolate chips and drizzle over cooled blondies.
- Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips and drizzle over the blondies.
- Sprinkle crushed candy cane over the top while the chocolate is still wet.