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Gluten-Free Peppermint Brownies: A Holiday Delight

As the holiday season approaches, the aroma of freshly baked treats fills the air. For those who follow a gluten-free diet, finding the perfect dessert can be a challenge. Enter gluten-free peppermint brownies—a decadent, festive treat that combines the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the refreshing zing of peppermint. In this blog post, we’ll explore the magic of gluten-free peppermint brownies, from their health benefits to a step-by-step recipe that will have your taste buds dancing.

Why Gluten-Free Peppermint Brownies?

Gluten-free baking has come a long way in recent years, and gluten-free brownies are no exception. These brownies are not only delicious but also cater to those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The addition of peppermint adds a festive twist, making them a perfect holiday treat. Peppermint is known for its digestive benefits and ability to soothe the stomach, making these brownies a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make these delightful gluten-free peppermint brownies:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Gluten-free flour blend	1 cup	Ensure it contains xanthan gum for binding
Cocoa powder	1/2 cup	Unsweetened, for a rich chocolate flavor
Butter or coconut oil	1/2 cup	Melted, for a moist texture
Sugar	1 cup	You can use coconut sugar for a healthier option
Eggs	2 large	Room temperature, for better mixing
Peppermint extract	1 tsp	Adjust to taste
Dark chocolate chips	1/2 cup	Optional, for extra richness
Crushed peppermint candies	1/4 cup	For topping

Step-by-Step Recipe

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create your gluten-free peppermint brownies:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend and cocoa powder. Set aside.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the melted butter (or coconut oil) and sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the peppermint extract.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chips if using.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Serve and enjoy!

Health Benefits of Gluten-Free Peppermint Brownies

These gluten-free peppermint brownies are not just a treat for your taste buds; they also offer several health benefits:

• Gluten-Free: Ideal for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, these brownies allow everyone to enjoy a festive treat without discomfort.
• Peppermint Benefits: Peppermint is known for its digestive properties, helping to soothe the stomach and reduce bloating. It also adds a refreshing flavor that complements the richness of the chocolate.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your dietary needs. For example, use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index or substitute eggs with a flaxseed mixture for a vegan version.

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