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Peppermint Brownies Recipe

4.5 from 66 reviews

These Peppermint Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with a creamy peppermint frosting and a decadent chocolate ganache topping, finished with festive crushed candy canes for a delicious holiday treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Base

  • 1 (18.3-ounce) box fudge brownie mix, plus ingredients as directed on the box

Peppermint Frosting

  • 2½ cups powdered sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 23 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

Chocolate Ganache Topping

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened and divided (½ cup for frosting, ½ cup for ganache)
  • 1½ cups mini chocolate chips

Decoration

  • Crushed candy canes, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  2. Make and Bake Brownies: Prepare the brownie mix according to the instructions on the box, then pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs.
  3. Prepare Peppermint Frosting: While the brownies cool, in a large bowl beat together 2½ cups powdered sugar, ½ cup softened butter, 2-3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream, and 1 teaspoon peppermint extract until smooth and creamy. Adjust cream quantity to achieve desired spreading consistency.
  4. Frost the Brownies: Once the brownies have completely cooled, evenly spread the peppermint frosting over the top. Place the frosted brownies in the refrigerator to chill for 30 minutes to set the frosting.
  5. Make Chocolate Ganache: In a small pot over low heat, melt 1½ cups mini chocolate chips with ½ cup softened butter, stirring constantly to create a smooth ganache.
  6. Top with Ganache and Candy Canes: Spread the warm ganache evenly over the chilled peppermint frosting. Sprinkle generously with crushed candy canes for a festive crunch.
  7. Chill to Set: Return the brownies to the refrigerator and chill for an additional 30 to 60 minutes to help the ganache set firmly before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Ensure brownies are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
  • Adjust heavy cream in frosting for desired thickness.
  • Crushed candy canes add a festive look and peppermint crunch; adjust quantity to preference.
  • Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Allow brownies to come to room temperature before serving for best texture.

Keywords: peppermint brownies, chocolate brownies, holiday dessert, peppermint frosting, chocolate ganache, candy cane brownies