Frosted Peppermint Brownies

why make this recipe

Frosted Peppermint Brownies are a delightful treat that combines rich, fudgy brownies with a sweet and minty frosting. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or even just a cozy night at home. The bold flavors of chocolate and peppermint create a festive dessert that brings joy and warmth to any occasion.

how to make Frosted Peppermint Brownies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, melt the butter and stir in the sugar until combined.
3. Add in the eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in the crushed candy canes.
6. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Let cool completely.
9. For the frosting, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth. Spread on top of the cooled brownies, then sprinkle with additional crushed candy canes.
10. Cut into squares and serve.

how to serve Frosted Peppermint Brownies

These brownies are best served at room temperature. You can cut them into squares and place them on a festive plate. They are great on their own, but you can also enjoy them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

how to store Frosted Peppermint Brownies

To store your brownies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving to enjoy their rich flavors.

tips to make Frosted Peppermint Brownies

• Make sure to let the brownies cool completely before adding the frosting to avoid melting.
• You can crush the candy canes in a plastic bag with a rolling pin for less mess.
• For extra flavor, consider using dark chocolate cocoa powder in the brownie batter.

variation

You can try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for added texture. If you prefer a lighter treat, you can replace some of the butter with applesauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use white chocolate instead of the regular frosting?
   Yes, you can melt white chocolate and drizzle it over the brownies instead of the peppermint frosting if you prefer.

2. How can I make these brownies gluten-free?
   You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix.

3. Can I freeze these brownies?
   Yes, you can freeze them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To serve, let them thaw at room temperature.

Frosted Peppermint Brownies

Rich, fudgy brownies topped with sweet minty frosting and crushed candy canes, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 12 squares

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Holiday

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Brownie Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour Can be substituted with gluten-free flour.
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Consider using dark chocolate cocoa powder for extra flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes For added decoration.

Frosting Ingredients

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, melt the butter and stir in the sugar until combined.
3. Add in the eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in the crushed candy canes.

Baking

1. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
3. Let cool completely.

Frosting

1. For the frosting, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth.
2. Spread on top of the cooled brownies, then sprinkle with additional crushed candy canes.
3. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

Brownies are best served at room temperature. Great on their own or with vanilla ice cream. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.