Description
Indulgent peppermint brownies bring festive chocolate magic to holiday dessert tables. Rich fudgy layers meld classic brownie depth with cool mint notes, offering sweet seasonal comfort that delights chocolate and peppermint enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
Frosting Ingredients:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2–3 drops red food coloring (optional)
Topping Ingredient:
- 1/4 cup crushed candy canes
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the baking vessel by preheating the oven to 350°F and lining an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, ensuring edges extend for easy brownie removal.
- Create the chocolate base by melting butter in a microwave-safe bowl, then whisking in sugar until thoroughly incorporated. Integrate eggs individually, followed by vanilla extract, then gently fold in cocoa powder, flour, and salt until just combined.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared pan, distributing evenly across the surface. Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick that should emerge with a few moist crumbs. Allow brownies to cool completely within the pan.
- Craft the peppermint topping by whipping softened butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar, then blend in milk and peppermint extract until the mixture reaches a silky consistency. Optional: add red food coloring to achieve a delicate pink hue.
- Adorn the cooled brownies by spreading the peppermint frosting across the surface, creating artistic swirls with a knife. Garnish with crushed candy canes for a festive touch, then slice into individual squares and serve.
Notes
- Adjust butter temperature for better mixing by letting it cool slightly after melting to prevent scrambling eggs.
- Avoid overmixing the brownie batter to keep the texture fudgy and prevent tough, dense brownies.
- Enhance peppermint flavor by using high-quality extract and adding a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.
- Control frosting consistency by adding powdered sugar or milk gradually to achieve the perfect spreadable texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg