Peppermint Cheesecake Brownie Bars are the ultimate holiday dessert, combining rich, fudgy brownies with a creamy peppermint cheesecake swirl. This festive treat brings together deep chocolate flavor and cool peppermint in one indulgent bite, making it perfect for Christmas baking, cookie trays, and holiday gatherings.
These bars are visually stunning and surprisingly easy to make. A dense brownie base is topped with a smooth cheesecake layer infused with peppermint, then swirled for a beautiful marbled finish. Finished with crushed candy canes or peppermint pieces, these Peppermint Cheesecake Brownie Bars are guaranteed to impress both chocolate lovers and holiday dessert fans alike.
Why You’ll Love These Peppermint Cheesecake Brownie Bars
- Rich, fudgy brownie base
- Creamy peppermint cheesecake swirl
- Festive flavor perfect for Christmas
- Beautiful marbled presentation
- Easy to slice and serve
- Ideal for holiday parties and gifting
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you love brownies and cheesecake, this recipe gives you the best of both worlds. The peppermint adds a refreshing holiday twist without overpowering the chocolate. These bars are make-ahead friendly, travel well, and stay moist for days, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Brownie Layer
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping (Optional)
- ½ cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
How to Make Peppermint Cheesecake Brownie Bars
Step 1 — Prepare the Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
Step 2 — Make the Brownie Batter
In a bowl, whisk melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla extract and mix well. Stir in flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just combined.
Step 3 — Make the Cheesecake Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add egg, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy.
Step 4 — Assemble and Swirl
Spread brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Spoon cheesecake mixture over the top. Use a knife to gently swirl the layers together.
Step 5 — Add Toppings
Sprinkle crushed candy canes evenly over the surface, pressing lightly into the batter.
Step 6 — Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 7 — Cool and Slice
Allow bars to cool completely before lifting from the pan and slicing into squares.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per bar)
- Calories: 310
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Sugar: 26g
- Protein: 5g
Values may vary based on ingredients used.
Tips for the Best Peppermint Cheesecake Brownie Bars
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for smooth cheesecake
- Do not overmix the brownie batter
- Swirl gently to keep layers distinct
- Let bars cool completely before cutting
- Use peppermint extract sparingly—it’s strong
Variations & Substitutions
- Swap peppermint extract for mint chocolate flavor
- Use boxed brownie mix for a shortcut
- Add chocolate chips to the brownie layer
- Use white chocolate drizzle on top
- Make gluten-free with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
What to Serve With Peppermint Cheesecake Brownie Bars
- Hot chocolate or cocoa bar
- Coffee or espresso
- Christmas cookie trays
- Holiday dessert boards
- Vanilla ice cream
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking (leads to dry brownies)
- Using too much peppermint extract
- Cutting before fully cooled
- Skipping parchment paper
- Over-swirling the layers
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
- Bring to room temperature before serving
- Freeze bars (without candy cane topping) for up to 2 months
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator
Conclusion
Peppermint Cheesecake Brownie Bars are a festive, decadent dessert that belongs on every holiday table. With their rich chocolate base, creamy peppermint swirl, and eye-catching presentation, they’re perfect for Christmas baking, gifting, and celebrations. This recipe delivers bold flavor, beautiful texture, and reliable results every time.
General Information
- Course: Dessert / Bars
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 12 bars
- Difficulty: Easy
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes. They taste even better the next day and are perfect for making ahead.
Can I reduce the peppermint flavor?
Yes. Use ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract for a milder taste.
Do these need to be refrigerated?
Yes. Because of the cheesecake layer, refrigeration is recommended.
Can I use boxed brownie mix?
Absolutely. Prepare brownie batter as directed and continue with the cheesecake layer.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes. Freeze without candy cane topping for best texture.