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The Ultimate Fudgy Peppermint Brownies with Creamy Peppermint Frosting

A fudgy square of peppermint brownies topped with white frosting and crushed candy canes.

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Make rich, fudgy peppermint brownies topped with a cool, creamy peppermint frosting and crushed candy canes. This easy, one-bowl recipe is perfect for holiday baking and gifting.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon 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 brownie batter)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
  • 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (for frosting)
  • 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (for frosting)
  • 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
  3. Whisk in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and flour. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Fold in the chocolate chips and 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. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar, milk, and 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
  8. Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the top.
  9. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of crushed candy canes over the frosting.
  10. Cut the brownies into squares. Store covered at room temperature.

Notes

  • For an extra fudgy texture, reduce the flour by 2 tablespoons.
  • If you are using this recipe as part of your meal planning for holiday gatherings, you can prepare the brownie base one day ahead and frost it just before serving.
  • To crush candy canes easily, place them in a zip-top bag and hit them with a rolling pin.

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