Make rich, fudgy peppermint brownies in a single bowl. This easy holiday recipe features a deep chocolate flavor with a refreshing mint finish, topped with creamy frosting and crushed candy canes for a festive crunch.
Author:felixhayes
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:30 min
Total Time:45 min
Yield:16 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup crushed candy canes (for batter and topping)
1/2 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (for frosting)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar together until fully combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract.
Sift the cocoa powder and flour directly into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
Fold in the chocolate chips and half of the crushed candy canes.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out with moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.
While the brownies cool completely, prepare the frosting: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract until smooth. Add more milk, one teaspoon at a time, if the frosting is too thick.
Once the brownies are cool, spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the top.
Sprinkle the remaining crushed candy canes over the frosting.
Let the frosting set for about 15 minutes before cutting into squares.
Notes
For an extra fudgy texture, use high-quality dark chocolate in the batter.
If you want a stronger peppermint flavor in the brownie base itself, add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter.
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days.