Description
These Peppermint Brownies are rich, fudgy chocolate brownies infused with peppermint flavor and topped with a creamy, sweet peppermint frosting sprinkled with crushed candy cane for a festive finish. Perfect for holiday treats or anytime you crave a refreshing twist on classic brownies.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Base
- 5 ounces bittersweet chocolate
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 3/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons dark chocolate cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Peppermint Frosting
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter (1/2 stick), softened
- 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- 1 1/2 ounces bittersweet chocolate chips
- 1 candy cane, crushed
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Batter: Melt the 5 ounces of bittersweet chocolate and 1/2 cup of butter together until smooth. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before stirring in 1 cup granulated sugar. Beat in 2 eggs one at a time, then add 3/4 teaspoon peppermint extract and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for a refreshing flavor. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt, then gently fold into the chocolate mixture until fully combined.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined 8×8 inch baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Make the Peppermint Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 ounces softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar, mixing well to incorporate. Add 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream to loosen the frosting to spreadable consistency.
- Decorate the Brownies: Once the brownies are fully cooled, frost with the peppermint cream cheese frosting evenly. Sprinkle 1 1/2 ounces bittersweet chocolate chips on top, then finish by scattering the crushed candy cane pieces over the frosting for a festive crunch and minty flavor.
- Serve and Store: Cut into 16 equal squares and serve. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for optimum freshness.
Notes
- Fudgy chocolate brownies topped with a delicious peppermint frosting make a festive treat.
- Ensure brownies are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- Use high-quality bittersweet chocolate for deeper flavor.
- Crushed candy canes provide a delightful crunch and mint flavor.
- These brownies are perfect for holiday parties or gifting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (approximately 1/16 of batch)
- Calories: 303
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 148 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
