9 Peppermint Dessert Recipes That Make the Holidays That Much Sweeter

By Tara Fuller

Pumpkin is to fall what peppermint is to the holiday season. It’s added to everything from cookies to coffee to popcorn, making it impossible to avoid and resist.

While peppermint ice cream may be belle of the ball, there are tons of other treats worthy of the minty infusion, so we rounded up the best of ’em. Some will keep you warm, and most of the ones that made this list are actually healthy.

It’s time to crush some candy (we’re talking real-life candy canes, not the addictive game), sweeten up winter, and treat yo’self.

Photo: Sweet C’s Designs

1. Peppermint Brownies

Traditional brownies taste great without fancy fixings. Gooey fudge squares cooked to perfection—what more could you need? While we’re firm believers in the powers of chocolate, a little peppermint goes a long way in this holiday-inspired recipe. Simply add a dash of peppermint extract to brownie mix and top with crushed candy canes. It doesn’t get easier than that!

2. Peppermint Bark Milkshake

Colder temperatures may have you yearning for soup and hot chocolate, but that doesn’t mean milkshakes should be shunned. This simple recipe sticks to three ingredients (four including whipped cream) and is ready to slurp in less than 10 minutes. Tip: To make it healthier, use a combination of Greek yogurt, vanilla almond milk, and ice cubes in place of the dairy milk and ice cream.

3. Slow Cooker Peppermint Mochas

For the times when something cold simply won’t do, turn to this warm winter beverage. Brewed in a Crock-Pot, this recipe is ideal for holiday parties or any group gathering. The recipe is delicious as is, but we’re big fans of subbing dark chocolate chips for semi-sweet, nixing the syrup in favor of extra peppermint extract, and sweetening with agave instead of granulated sugar.

Photo: Cooking Classy

4. Peppermint Bark Popcorn

When craving piles of peppermint cookies, turn to our healthier friend, peppermint bark popcorn. Made with all the good stuff—almond bark, candy canes, and chocolate chips—this recipe satisfies those sugar cravings but keeps things on the lighter side. Bonus: It also makes a great last-minute gift.

5. No-Bake Chocolate and Peppermint Cheesecakes

Some days, turning on the oven feels like such a chore. Who wants to wait for cookies to bake when you can have them, well, now? These mini cheesecakes skip …read more

Source:: Greatist