Introduction

These peppermint brownies combine rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint in a festive treat perfect for the holidays. Topped with a creamy peppermint frosting and crushed candy canes, they’re delightfully indulgent and easy to make.

A grid of sixteen square pieces of brownies is shown on a black cooling rack lined with brown parchment paper. Each brownie has two layers: a dark brown, dense-looking chocolate base topped with a thick, white frosting layer with a creamy and smooth texture. The frosting is generously covered with small, uneven red and white crushed peppermint candy pieces, scattered all over the top surface. Around the rack are broken peppermint sticks, loose crushed candy, and some green fir sprigs, adding a festive touch. The whole scene is set on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

10 tablespoons unsalted butter
2/3 cup + 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup dutch-processed cocoa powder
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 large egg yolk
2/3 cup + 1 tablespoon all purpose flour
2/3 cup peppermint baking chips
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
3-5 tablespoons hot boiling water
Peppermint baking chips and candy canes, for decorating

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir until smooth, then whisk in the cocoa powder. Set aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and egg yolk for about 1 minute until combined.
Step 4: Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture to the sugar and eggs, whisking until smooth.
Step 5: Gently fold in the flour, peppermint chips, and sea salt until just combined.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 7: Allow the brownies to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Step 8: To make the frosting, combine powdered sugar, softened butter, and peppermint extract in a large bowl. Add 3 tablespoons of hot water and mix until smooth and spreadable, adding more water a little at a time if needed.
Step 9: Spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Sprinkle with extra peppermint chips and crushed candy canes.
Step 10: Let the frosting set for 2-3 hours at room temperature or 30 minutes in the fridge before cutting into 16 squares to serve.

Tips & Variations

Use the spoon-level method when measuring flour to avoid using too much—fluff it, spoon it into your cup, then level off with a knife.
For best consistency, use a kitchen scale to measure your dry ingredients.
A metal baking pan helps ensure even baking compared to glass or ceramic.
Add crushed candy canes inside the batter for extra peppermint crunch.
Substitute peppermint extract with vanilla for a classic chocolate frosting.

Storage

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The frosting will firm up when chilled—allow brownies to return to room temperature for the best flavor and texture before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows 16 square pieces of peppermint brownies arranged on light brown parchment paper over a black wire cooling rack. Each brownie has two layers: a dark brown base layer with a rich, fudgy texture, and a thick, smooth white frosting on top. The frosting is generously sprinkled with crushed red and white peppermint candy pieces, adding a festive pop of color. Around the cooling rack, there are whole and broken candy canes and sprigs of green pine, placed on a white marbled surface. The overall scene gives a cozy, holiday feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of peppermint baking chips?

Yes, you can substitute regular semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips if peppermint chips aren’t available. The brownies will still taste delicious, but without the minty flavor.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. This ensures the brownies stay fudgy and not dry.