Chocolate Peppermint Brownies from the Green Gables Inn
Chocolate and peppermint are a classic holiday pairing, and these popular brownies from the Green Gables Inn lean into the festive flavors in decadent fashion. They start with a deep cocoa base—boosted by a splash of coffee—and then get a lift from a cool ribbon of peppermint. Once spread into the pan, the batter is sprinkled with crushed peppermint candies, which add a touch of sparkle and crunch.
Perched above the rocky shoreline in Pacific Grove, the storied Green Gables Inn is one of the most iconic Queen Anne Victorians lining the Monterey Bay. The 1888 Victorian mansion was completely revamped in 2023 with stunning interiors that are only rivaled by its panoramic ocean views. The redesign sought to reflect the natural beauty of the sea while restoring the Victorian’s treasured architectural details.
The interiors—including all 11 guest rooms—were renovated with a serene, coastal-inspired color palette and paired with contemporary furnishings. In the oceanfront parlor, the grand fireplace is flanked by beautifully restored stained-glass windows and intricate crown molding. It’s a magical setting for curling up next to the fire while winter storms brew outside.
The magic glows even brighter each December, when the Green Gables Inn is decked in its sparkling holiday finery. The Victorian has long been a favorite stop along Pacific Grove’s annual Christmas at the Inns tour, which is held in early December. It’s also a splendid place to escape the holiday hustle and enjoy a quiet seaside getaway. Guests are treated to an afternoon wine hour, a full breakfast, and freshly baked indulgences like chocolate peppermint brownies while enjoying the mesmerizing views.
Chocolate Peppermint Brownies
Courtesy of Green Gables Inn
Makes 16 brownies
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons brewed coffee, cooled
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 8″ x 8″ pan with parchment paper.
Cream the butter and sugar together in a large bowl.
Stir in the eggs, coffee, and peppermint extract until well mixed.
In another bowl, mix the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients with the wet.
Fold in half of the crushed peppermint candies.
Using a spatula, spread the batter into the prepared pan.
Sprinkle the remaining crushed candies over the top, distributing evenly. Press gently to adhere.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until center is set and edges begin to pull away from the pan.
Let cool for one hour before slicing.
