Festive Peppermint Brownies (Print Version)
Fudgy chocolate brownies with creamy frosting and crushed peppermint candy - a perfect holiday treat everyone will love.
# Ingredients:
→ Brownies
01 -
½ cup salted butter, melted
02 -
¾ cup + 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
03 -
2 large eggs, at room temperature
04 -
¾ teaspoon peppermint extract
05 -
¾ cup all-purpose flour
06 -
¾ cup cocoa powder
07 -
¾ teaspoon espresso powder (optional)
08 -
1 tablespoon cornstarch
09 -
½ teaspoon baking powder
10 -
½ cup chocolate chips or chunks
→ Frosting
11 -
¼ cup salted butter, melted
12 -
½ cup cocoa powder
13 -
2⅓ cups powdered sugar, sifted
14 -
2-3 tablespoons whole milk
15 -
Crushed peppermint candy for decoration
# Steps:
01 -
Preheat oven to 165°C and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Lightly butter the sides for clean removal.
02 -
Melt the salted butter until smooth, then stir in the light brown sugar until glossy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add the peppermint extract.
03 -
In a separate bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder (if using), cornstarch, and baking powder. Fold into wet mixture just until no flour streaks remain.
04 -
Fold in chocolate chips or chunks, reserving a few to scatter on top before baking.
05 -
Spoon batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for about 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
06 -
Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
07 -
Mix melted butter, cocoa powder, sifted powdered sugar, and milk until smooth and creamy. Add additional milk if needed for desired consistency.
08 -
Spread frosting over cooled brownies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candy.
# Notes:
01 -
Sift cocoa and flour for a smoother batter texture
02 -
Store leftover brownies with a slice of bread in the container to maintain softness
03 -
Experiment with dark, milk, or white chocolate chips for flavor variations