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The Ultimate Fudgy Peppermint Brownies with Creamy Peppermint Frosting

Close-up of a fudgy peppermint brownies square topped with light green mint frosting and crushed candy canes.

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Make rich, fudgy peppermint brownies layered with a cool peppermint frosting and topped with crushed candy canes. This recipe is simple to follow and perfect for holiday baking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (for batter)
  • For Frosting: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 12 tablespoons milk
  • Pinch of salt
  • For Topping: 1/4 cup crushed candy canes

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar together until combined.
  3. Whisk in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract.
  4. Sift the cocoa powder and flour over the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
  5. Fold in the chocolate chips and the 1/2 cup of crushed candy canes.
  6. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.
  7. While the brownies cool completely, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
  8. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Add the peppermint extract, milk, and salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Add more milk, one teaspoon at a time, if the frosting is too stiff.
  9. Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the top.
  10. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of crushed candy canes over the frosting.
  11. Cut the brownies into squares. Store covered at room temperature.

Notes

  • For an extra fudgy texture, use melted dark chocolate in addition to cocoa powder in the brownie base.
  • If you want a layered look, chill the brownies for 30 minutes before spreading the frosting.
  • Use high-quality peppermint extract for the best flavor.

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