Make rich, fudgy peppermint brownies using a simple one-bowl method. Top them with creamy peppermint frosting and crushed candy canes for a decadent holiday dessert.
Author:julianmaxwell
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
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon peppermint extract (for batter)
1 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint bark (for topping)
1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (for frosting)
1/2 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 well combined.
Whisk in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract.
Sift the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder directly into the wet ingredients. Mix gently with a spatula until just combined; do not overmix.
Fold in the chocolate chips. 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, for a fudgy texture.
While the brownies cool completely, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract until smooth and creamy. 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.
Immediately sprinkle the crushed candy canes or peppermint bark over the frosting.
Let the frosting set for about 30 minutes before cutting into rich chocolate mint squares.
Notes
For the fudgiest texture, do not overbake the brownies. Check them early.
You can substitute peppermint bark pieces for candy canes in the topping for extra chocolate flavor.
Chill the brownies for 30 minutes after frosting to help the topping adhere before slicing.