Make rich, fudgy peppermint brownies easily in a single bowl, topped with mint frosting and crushed candy canes. This recipe is perfect for quick holiday baking.
Author:leogrant
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 unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup peppermint extract (for brownie batter)
1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (for frosting)
1/2 cup crushed candy canes
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 together the melted butter and granulated sugar until combined.
Whisk in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract and 1/4 cup peppermint extract.
In the same bowl, add the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix 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, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Do not overbake for fudgy results.
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Prepare the frosting: Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the cooled brownies.
Sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the frosting before it sets.
Once the frosting is set, lift the brownies out using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares.
Notes
For extra fudgy texture, use both melted chocolate and cocoa powder in the base recipe.
If you want a layered look, chill the brownies briefly before applying the frosting.
Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.