If you have a soft spot for festive treats that combine rich chocolaty goodness with refreshing peppermint flair, you are going to adore this Peppermint Oreo Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting and Chocolate Topping Recipe. This delightful dessert brings together the fudgy decadence of brownies, the crunch and flavor of Oreos, and the luxurious smoothness of cream cheese frosting, all crowned with a glossy chocolate topping that sets these brownies apart. Each bite is a celebration of textures and tastes that will have your friends and family begging for the recipe. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a showstopping sweet treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white marbled surface holds a collection of baking ingredients arranged neatly in white bowls and plates. In the top left, a bowl is filled with dark brown chocolate chips. Next to it is a white jar of coconut oil, lying on its side. A small white plate with a block of cream cheese sits beside the jar. To the right, a small shiny metal bowl with water and another white bowl with light yellow oil are placed. In front of these is a small white bowl holding a whole egg. A red and white box of Betty Crocker Supreme Triple Chunk brownie mix is on the far right. Below the chocolate chips, a small white plate holds a slice of light yellow butter. A tiny white dish with a pinch of white salt and two small bottles, one red food coloring and one dark peppermint extract, are also present. A white bowl filled with crushed black and white Oreo cookies sits next to a large white bowl full of fine white powdered sugar. All items are arranged clearly and spread out on the clean white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to achieving that perfect balance in this recipe. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s enhancing the fudgy texture, adding bursts of peppermint, or creating that irresistible shiny chocolate topping.

Brownie mix (1 package): I recommend Betty Crocker’s Supreme Triple Chunk for an extra chocolate kick and built-in chunks that add texture without fuss.
Oreos (6 cookies): Finely chopped with the creme filling intact, they blend seamlessly into the batter for delightful cookie pockets.
Cream cheese (3 ounces, full-fat): Provides the silky base for a frosting that is rich yet tangy, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Adds creaminess to the frosting and richness that enhances every layer.
Peppermint extract (1 teaspoon): Essential for authentic peppermint flavor—don’t substitute with mint extract to keep that fresh, festive zing.
Salt (1/16 teaspoon): Just a pinch to sharpen all the flavors without overpowering.
Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting, ensuring it spreads smoothly.
Red food coloring (optional): A splash for a festive holiday vibe or any occasion needing a pop of color.
Milk chocolate chips (1 cup): Melted to create a luscious topping; you can also use semi-sweet if you prefer a less sweet finish.
Coconut oil (2 teaspoons): Helps the chocolate topping set with a beautiful sheen and silky mouthfeel.
Crushed peppermint candy (2 to 3 tablespoons, optional): For sprinkling on top to add crunch and an extra burst of peppermint delight.

How to Make Peppermint Oreo Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting and Chocolate Topping Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Brownies

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang to lift the brownies out later. Follow the directions on your brownie mix package—but here’s the twist: don’t include the fudge packet yet, save that for later. Fold in the finely chopped Oreos, making sure the creme filling stays in for a moist, cookie-studded brownie batter. Pour this thick batter into the pan and bake as directed, taking care not to overbake so your brownies stay fudgy and soft.

Step 2: Add the Fudge Layer

Once the brownies come out of the oven, allow them to cool for about 3 to 4 minutes. If your mix included a fudge packet, spread it evenly over the warm brownies now. This extra layer of gooey chocolate will take the fudginess over the top. Cover the brownies tightly and chill them in the fridge or freezer while you prepare the frosting to ensure each layer sets beautifully.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the room-temperature cream cheese and butter until the texture is smooth and creamy. Then add the peppermint extract—start with about 1 teaspoon, but feel free to adjust for your preferred peppermint intensity. Add a pinch of salt, powdered sugar, and red food coloring if you’re going festive. Beat the mixture until it transforms into a smooth, spreadable frosting. It might look a bit tricky at first, but patience is key here—keep beating and scrape down the sides as needed. Spread this luscious frosting evenly over the cooled brownies, then return the pan to the fridge while you make the chocolate topping.

Step 4: Create the Chocolate Topping

Place the milk chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt the mixture in 20-second increments, stirring well between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and silky smooth. Pour this decadent topping over the cream cheese layer, smoothing it out into an even coat. Allow it to sit at room temperature until the chocolate firms up, forming a shiny, delightful finish to these layered beauties.

Step 5: Cut and Serve

Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan gently. For clean, precise slices, run your knife under hot water and dry the blade between each cut. This prevents sticking and keeps those layers crisp. Let your peppermint Oreo brownies sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving so all the layers meld together just right.

How to Serve Peppermint Oreo Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting and Chocolate Topping Recipe

The image shows a stack of two square dessert bars on a white plate with a white marbled background. Each bar has three distinct layers: the bottom layer is dark brown with visible chocolate chunks and a moist texture, the middle layer is thick and white with a smooth creamy look, and the top layer is a thin, shiny dark brown chocolate coating sprinkled with broken pieces of red and white candy. Some candy pieces are also scattered around the plate, adding color contrast. The bars are sharply cut to show clean edges, and the focus is close up, highlighting the layers' details and textures. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While these brownies are showstoppers on their own, adding a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy on top just before the chocolate topping sets gives a festive crunch and visual sparkle. For an extra holiday touch, a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate can make them even more special.

Side Dishes

Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a dessert experience that feels like a celebration. A warm cup of peppermint tea or a mug of rich hot chocolate is also a delightful companion to this already indulgent treat, amplifying that mint-chocolate harmony.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these brownies on a festive platter lined with evergreen sprigs, holly berries, or even edible silver stars to bring a holiday glow. For gatherings, consider stacking individual brownie squares with parchment between layers in a clear glass dish for a stunning visual display that invites everyone to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep these brownies stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making them even more irresistible the next day. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

Want to make these delightful brownies ahead of a party? Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

If you prefer a soft, warm brownie experience, pop a square in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Just remember that the cream cheese frosting and chocolate topping will soften, so warming gently is best to keep those layers intact while enhancing their fudgy appeal.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownies instead of boxed mix?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade brownie recipe, feel free to use it as the base. Just be sure the batter is thick enough to hold the chopped Oreos well and bake it in an 8×8-inch pan to maintain the proper thickness for layering the frosting and topping.

What if I don’t have peppermint extract? Can I use mint extract?

It’s best to use peppermint extract specifically, as it has a brighter, cooler flavor profile. Mint extract tends to be sweeter and less crisp, which can alter the refreshing balance this recipe relies on.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?

You can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives, as well as vegan brownie mixes and chocolate chips. Keep in mind these substitutions might change the texture and flavor slightly, but it’s a great way to adapt it for special diets.

How do I get clean cuts through the layers?

Running your knife under hot water and drying it between cuts is the key to getting those perfect slices without the chocolate topping cracking or frosting smearing. The warm knife glides more smoothly through the layers.

Can I skip the fudge packet layer?

Yes, the fudge packet adds a bonus gooey layer that enhances the brownies, but the recipe still turns out fantastic without it. If you prefer a less sweet or simpler brownie, just omit that step and follow the rest as is.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to dive into a dessert that’s as festive as it is delicious, the Peppermint Oreo Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting and Chocolate Topping Recipe is your ticket. It’s the perfect blend of textures and flavors that feels like a hug on a plate—rich, refreshing, and utterly addictive. Treat yourself and those you love to a batch, and prepare to hear compliments for days. Happy baking and even happier tasting!