Indulge in these rich, fudgy brownies topped with a festive swirl of peppermint frosting and crushed candy canes. A perfect holiday treat!
Author:Leo Abraham
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:35 minutes
Total Time:55 minutes
Yield:24 servings
Category:Desserts
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
For the Brownies:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
For the Frosting:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup peppermint extract
1/4 cup milk
Red and green food coloring (optional)
1/2 cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
For the frosting, beat the softened butter in a large bowl until creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the peppermint extract and milk, until smooth and fluffy.
If desired, divide the frosting into two bowls and tint one red and one green.
Spread or swirl the frosting over the cooled brownies.
Sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the frosting.
Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
For extra fudgy brownies, do not overbake.
Ensure your butter is at room temperature for the frosting to achieve a smooth consistency.
You can use store-bought peppermint extract or a natural peppermint oil for a stronger flavor.
Feel free to adjust the amount of peppermint extract to your preference.
For a cleaner cut, chill the brownies slightly before slicing.