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Fudgy peppermint brownies with a rich chocolate and mint flavor

Fudgy Peppermint Brownies

These rich, decadent fudgy peppermint brownies feature a dense chocolate base topped with a cool, creamy peppermint frosting and a festive sprinkle of crushed candy canes, perfect for holiday indulgence.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 16 brownies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Brownie Layer
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
Peppermint Frosting
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3-4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt pinch of
Garnish
  • 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Large saucepan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Electric mixer
  • Wire rack

Method
 

Brownies
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until combined.
  3. Whisk in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated, then stir in vanilla extract.
  4. Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly, then bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
  6. Let brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
Peppermint Frosting
  1. In a large bowl, beat softened butter until light and fluffy using an electric mixer or by hand.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar, peppermint extract, milk or cream, and a pinch of salt, then beat until smooth and creamy.
Assemble
  1. Once brownies are completely cool, spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the top.
  2. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or candy canes over the frosting.
  3. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

Ensure brownies are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting. For extra holiday cheer, add a drop of red food coloring to the frosting.