There’s something magical about the first taste of these Peppermint Mocha Sourdough Brownies—a rich blend where velvety mocha meets refreshing peppermint and a hint of tangy sourdough charm. This Vegan Holiday Delight embodies everything cozy and celebratory. In this article, we’ll explore the story behind this crowd-pleasing treat, the essential ingredients, a step-by-step Mocha Brownies Recipe, expert baking tips, and answers to your most common questions. Perfect for gifting or enjoying fireside, these Vegan Peppermint Brownies join the finest Dairy Free Brownies and Plant-based Holiday Treats to make your Vegan Christmas Recipes collection shine.

A Holiday Memory Wrapped in Chocolate and Peppermint
Every December, my kitchen transforms into a wonderland of aromas—dark chocolate melting gently, espresso brewing softly, and peppermint swirling into the air. Those scents have always meant home, comfort, and joy. When I first crafted these Vegan Peppermint Brownies, I wanted to bottle up that feeling—the warmth of shared laughter while snow drifted outside, the sparkle of lights reflecting off mugs of cocoa, and the promise of something sweet cooling on the counter.
As I stirred together the batter for this Mocha Brownies Recipe, I realized that it was more than dessert—it was memory and meaning blended with each ingredient. The deep mocha flavor brings coziness, while the peppermint refreshes like crisp winter air. And because they’re Dairy Free Brownies, even friends with varying dietary choices can join in the taste of the holidays. Every bite carries the same nostalgic comfort of childhood treats, reimagined for a plant-based lifestyle that honors both indulgence and intention.
For me, these Vegan Peppermint Brownies symbolize connection. They remind me that baking for loved ones, especially during the holidays, isn’t only about sweets—it’s about slowing down to savor moments that matter. Each batch I bake becomes a gentle echo of that joy, wrapping every occasion in rich chocolate and love.
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Peppermint Mocha Sourdough Brownies – Vegan Holiday Delight
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
Description
These Peppermint Mocha Sourdough Brownies combine rich cocoa, espresso, refreshing peppermint, and tangy sourdough for a plant-based holiday treat. Dairy free and vegan, they yield fudgy squares with a crackly top and molten chocolate pockets. Perfect for festive gatherings or gifting, this brownie recipe highlights sustainability by using sourdough discard and mindful ingredients. You'll love the balance of mocha warmth and peppermint brightness in every bite, and simple steps ensure reliable results for both novice and experienced bakers. Serve cooled or warmed, plain or topped with crushed candy canes, for an unforgettable vegan Christmas delight.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl whisk together flax eggs, melted coconut oil, maple syrup and coconut sugar until smooth.
3. Stir in sourdough starter, non-dairy milk, espresso powder and peppermint extract until combined.
4. Sift flour, cocoa powder and sea salt into a medium bowl, then gently fold into wet ingredients until no streaks remain.
5. Fold in chopped vegan dark chocolate until evenly distributed.
6. Spread batter into prepared pan and sprinkle with crushed candy canes if using.
7. Bake for 28–32 minutes until the top is set and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
8. Cool in pan for at least 30 minutes before lifting out and slicing into squares.
9. Serve as is or drizzle with melted vegan chocolate and extra peppermint pieces.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 50
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 2
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 2
- Cholesterol: 0
Keywords: vegan peppermint brownies, dairy free brownies, mocha brownies recipe, plant-based holiday treats, vegan christmas recipes
Why Sourdough Adds the Magic Touch
While the peppermint and mocha deliver classic seasonal flavor, the real secret to these brownies lies in the sourdough. Adding sourdough starter doesn’t just reduce waste in the kitchen—it transforms texture and depth. The natural fermentation brings an unexpected tang that balances sweetness beautifully, creating a moist, fudgy crumb unique to these Vegan Peppermint Brownies.
Moreover, using sourdough fits perfectly into Plant-based Holiday Treats that celebrate sustainability and mindful eating. It’s a lovely reminder that even festive desserts can be rooted in eco-conscious choices. Each spoonful of starter you add gives new life to what’s often discarded, proving that Vegan Christmas Recipes can be both delectable and resourceful.
Beyond flavor, sourdough adds personality. It connects bakers across time and place, linking rustic traditions with creative modern twists. When you fold it into your batter for this Mocha Brownies Recipe, it breathes life into the dough—lending not just tang, but heart. As you pull your Peppermint Mocha Sourdough Brownies from the oven, still warm and fragrant, you’ll realize why sourdough truly is the magic touch that turns an ordinary brownie into a Vegan Holiday Delight.
Ingredients & Tools – Creating the Perfect Dairy Free Brownies Base
Ingredients You’ll Need for Peppermint Mocha Sourdough Brownies
Before we turn on the oven, let’s gather everything needed to make these rich and satisfying Peppermint Mocha Sourdough Brownies. This ingredient list keeps things simple and plant-forward, ensuring that anyone—vegan or not—can enjoy these Dairy Free Brownies with confidence. Each item is chosen for maximum flavor, balanced texture, and that signature fudgy finish that defines irresistible Vegan Peppermint Brownies.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Vegan Substitution / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup (120 g) | Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if needed |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | ¾ cup (65 g) | Use high-quality Dutch-process for a deep flavor |
| Sourdough starter (unfed/discard) | ½ cup (120 g) | Adds moisture and mild tang—can use a mix of whole wheat starter for depth |
| Coconut oil (melted) | ½ cup (120 ml) | Refined coconut oil keeps flavor neutral; substitute with avocado oil |
| Flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flax + 6 tbsp water) | Equivalent of 2 eggs | Essential vegan binder for these Vegan Peppermint Brownies |
| Maple syrup | ½ cup (120 ml) | Can replace with agave or date syrup for different sweetness levels |
| Coconut sugar | ½ cup (100 g) | Offers caramel undertones—brown sugar also works |
| Instant espresso powder | 1 tbsp | Enhances the mocha depth in this Mocha Brownies Recipe |
| Peppermint extract | 1 ½ tsp | Adjust to taste; pure extract works best for fresh minty flavor |
| Vegan dark chocolate (chopped or chips) | ¾ cup (125 g) | Opt for at least 70% cacao for robust mocha flavor |
| Non-dairy milk | ¼ cup (60 ml) | Almond, oat, or soy milk all work beautifully |
| Sea salt | ¼ tsp | Balances the sweetness |
| Crushed vegan candy canes (optional) | For topping | Adds festive crunch and color |
These thoughtfully curated ingredients deliver a lush, chocolatey base, with peppermint adding brightness and sourdough lending structure and tenderness. Together, they create the hallmark of a true Vegan Holiday Delight—flavor that feels both classic and brand new.
Baking Tools and Preparation Tips
Now that your ingredients are ready, let’s talk about the practical side of crafting your perfect Dairy Free Brownies. Using the right tools and a bit of pre-baking prep ensures your Peppermint Mocha Sourdough Brownies bake evenly and come out with that coveted crackly top and fudgy center.
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining wet and dry ingredients with ease.
- Medium Bowl: To whisk together the dry components like flour and cocoa.
- Whisk or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for folding rather than overmixing—keep that batter silky!
- 9×9-inch Baking Pan: Lined with parchment paper for easy removal and clean edges.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key to achieving consistent results.
- Sieve or Fine Mesh Strainer: To aerate cocoa and flour, ensuring a smoother brownie texture.
- Cooling Rack: Helps brownies cool evenly while locking in moisture.
Preparation Tips:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before mixing. Getting it perfectly heated is the first secret to evenly baked Vegan Peppermint Brownies.
- Prepare your sourdough starter slightly ahead—it can be an unfed discard at room temperature.
- Grease your pan lightly with coconut oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Melt your vegan chocolate and coconut oil together slowly to achieve a glossy, lump-free base.
- Use room-temperature ingredients; cold elements can affect the final texture and rise.
Step-by-Step Method & Expert Baking Tips for Plant-Based Holiday Treats
How to Bake Peppermint Mocha Sourdough Brownies
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for lifting.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together flax eggs, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and coconut sugar. Add sourdough starter, non-dairy milk, peppermint extract, and espresso powder until creamy.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift flour, cocoa powder, and sea salt. Pour into wet mixture.
- Fold to Combine: Gently fold until smooth; overmixing can create cake-like texture.
- Add the Chocolate: Fold in chopped vegan dark chocolate or chips for a molten texture.
- Pour and Smooth: Spread evenly in the pan; top with crushed candy cane pieces.
- Bake: Bake 28–32 minutes until top is shiny and set.
- Cool: Let cool completely for at least 30 minutes before slicing for perfect fudginess.
- Slice and Serve: Lift, cut, and top with more melted chocolate or peppermint flakes if desired.
Expert Tips for Fudgy and Flavorful Vegan Brownies
- Don’t overmix: keeps texture dense and moist.
- Use quality cocoa and dark chocolate: rich flavor makes the mocha shine.
- Balance peppermint: test batter before baking to fine-tune taste.
- Mind bake time: underbake slightly for extra fudgy results.
- Cool fully before slicing: ensures neat squares that hold shape.
- Decorate for the holidays: drizzle melted vegan chocolate, sprinkle candy canes, or add coconut cream.
- Pair creatively: serve with oat-milk coffee or vegan cocoa; gift-wrapped squares make festive treats.
- Store properly: airtight container at room temperature up to three days, refrigerated up to a week for deeper flavor.
FAQs & Conclusion – Your Vegan Christmas Recipes Questions Answered
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend containing xanthan gum and use a gluten-free sourdough starter such as brown rice or buckwheat. You’ll still enjoy indulgent, fudgy Dairy Free Brownies that fit perfectly into your Vegan Peppermint Brownies tradition.
2. How do I store them?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for a week. The mocha and peppermint flavors intensify overnight, enhancing this Mocha Brownies Recipe beautifully.
3. Substitute for sourdough starter?
Mix ½ cup non-dairy yogurt with 1 tablespoon flour for similar tang and moist texture. It won’t have the ferment flavor but maintains that fudgy quality loved in Plant-based Holiday Treats.
4. How long do they stay fresh?
Stored correctly, they stay soft for up to five days. Warm slices gently before serving to revive that freshly baked scent.
5. Can I freeze them?
Yes, slice into squares, separate layers with parchment, and freeze up to two months. Thaw at room temperature or heat briefly for holiday-ready Dairy Free Brownies anytime.
Sweet Conclusion – Why These Peppermint Mocha Sourdough Brownies Belong on Your Holiday Table
There’s something unmistakably special about a dessert that balances comfort, creativity, and conscience—all in one bite. These Peppermint Mocha Sourdough Brownies embody everything wonderful about Vegan Christmas Recipes. Each square offers a medley of rich mocha depth, cool peppermint brightness, and tender sourdough tang—a true Vegan Holiday Delight.
Beyond flavor, these Vegan Peppermint Brownies create connection. They bring loved ones together, honor dietary preferences, and celebrate mindfulness in baking. Sharing these Dairy Free Brownies around a festive table reminds us that joy resides in simple acts—mixing, baking, and tasting together.
Whether shared as edible gifts or savored by the fireplace, these Plant-based Holiday Treats capture seasonal cheer perfectly. Every fudgy morsel sparkles with warmth, intention, and joy. So let these Peppermint Mocha Sourdough Brownies take center stage. This Mocha Brownies Recipe isn’t just dessert—it’s an invitation to celebrate compassion, flavor, and love through vegan baking, destined to become a cherished Vegan Christmas Recipe tradition.
















