Description
These Peppermint Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with a creamy peppermint frosting, perfect for the holiday season. The brownies are loaded with peppermint baking chips and topped with a smooth peppermint buttercream and festive crushed candy canes, creating a delightful balance of chocolate and refreshing mint flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2/3 cup + 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup dutch-processed cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2/3 cup + 1 tablespoon all purpose flour
- 2/3 cup peppermint baking chips
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
Peppermint Frosting
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 3–5 tablespoons hot boiling water
- Peppermint baking chips and candy canes for decorating
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line an 8×8 square baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter with the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir until smooth, then whisk in the dutch-processed cocoa powder. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix Sugars and Eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, eggs, and egg yolk vigorously for 1 minute until well combined and slightly fluffy.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually pour the melted chocolate mixture into the sugar and egg mixture while whisking continuously to create a smooth batter.
- Fold in Dry Ingredients and Peppermint Chips: Gently fold the all-purpose flour, peppermint baking chips, and fine sea salt into the batter until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Allow the brownies to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
- Prepare Peppermint Frosting: In a large bowl, combine the powdered sugar, softened butter, and peppermint extract. Add 3 tablespoons of hot boiling water and mix with a rubber spatula until thick and spreadable. If the frosting is too thick, add more water one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Frost the Brownies: Dollop the peppermint frosting over the cooled brownies and spread evenly with an offset spatula.
- Decorate and Set: Sprinkle extra peppermint baking chips and crushed candy canes on top for a festive touch. Let the frosting set for 2-3 hours at room temperature or 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Serve: Cut into 16 squares and enjoy these festive peppermint brownies!
Notes
- For best results measuring flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off rather than scooping directly to avoid packing and excess flour.
- Allow brownies to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
- Use high-quality peppermint extract for a more pronounced mint flavor.
- The frosting consistency is important; add hot water slowly to achieve a smooth but thick spread.
- Brownies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days room temperature or up to a week refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: peppermint brownies, chocolate peppermint dessert, holiday brownies, peppermint frosting, festive brownies
