These festive peppermint brownies are perfect for the holiday season! A rich brownie base is topped with creamy peppermint frosting, a glossy chocolate layer, and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes.
1boxfudge brownie mix(18.3-ounce), plus water, 1 large egg, and vegetable oil per box directions
Peppermint Frosting
2.5cupspowdered sugar(confectioners' sugar)
0.5cupunsalted buttersoftened
2-3tbspheavy whipping cream
1tsppeppermint extract
Chocolate Topping
0.5cupunsalted buttermelted
1.5cupsmini chocolate chips
Crushed candy canesfor festive topping
Instructions
Get Ready: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides for easy lifting later.
Bake the Brownie Base: Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions in a large bowl. Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely.
Whip Up the Peppermint Frosting: While the brownies are cooling, grab a large bowl. Beat together 2½ cups of powdered sugar, ½ cup of softened butter, 2-3 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream, and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract until smooth and creamy. Spread this delightful frosting evenly over the cooled brownies.
Chill Time 1: Pop the frosted brownies into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the peppermint layer firm up nicely.
Create the Chocolate Topping: In a small saucepan, gently melt the remaining ½ cup of butter and 1½ cups of mini chocolate chips over low heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and glossy. You can also do this in the microwave, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring until melted.
Top it Off: Carefully pour the melted chocolate mixture over the chilled peppermint layer, spreading it gently to cover the brownies completely. Immediately sprinkle your crushed candy canes generously over the chocolate.
Chill Time 2: Return the brownies to the refrigerator for another 30-60 minutes. This final chill will set the chocolate topping and make slicing a breeze!
Notes
Nutrition Information (per serving): Calories: 434 kcal Total Carbs: 58g Net Carbs: 58g Fats: 21g Protein: 2g