Peppermint Brownies are a festive, rich chocolate treat infused with peppermint flavor, topped with crushed candy canes, and finished with a creamy peppermint frosting and chocolate glaze. This dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings, offering a delightful balance of fudgy chocolate and refreshing peppermint.
You’ll love these brownies because the chocolate base is dense and fudgy, enhanced with peppermint extract for a seasonal twist. The peppermint frosting adds a sweet, creamy layer that melts in your mouth, while the chocolate topping gives a glossy finish with crunchy candy cane bits for texture. They come together quickly and are a showstopper with their festive appearance and decadent flavor.
Ingredients
Brownie Base:
- 1 box brownie mix (prepared as per package instructions)
- Eggs, oil, and water as called for on the box
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing the pan
Peppermint Frosting:
- 2 tablespoons softened butter
- 2 ounces softened cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon milk or cream
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract
Chocolate Topping:
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- ¼ cup butter
- ¾ cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan with cooking spray or butter and line the bottom with parchment paper, leaving a small overhang on two sides for easy removal.
Prepare the brownie batter according to the instructions on your box. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for the specified time, usually around 25-30 minutes, until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
To make the peppermint frosting, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add the milk and beat again until combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated and smooth. Finally, stir in the peppermint extract. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled brownies.
Place the pan in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to set the frosting.
For the chocolate topping, melt the chocolate chips and butter together in a bowl, microwaving in 30-second bursts and stirring until smooth. Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the frosting layer. Immediately sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top, pressing them slightly into the chocolate to adhere.
Chill the brownies for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set. Once ready, lift from the pan using the parchment overhang, cut into squares, and serve.
My Best Tips for Success
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Use high-quality chocolate for the topping for rich flavor.
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Chill the frosting in the freezer to set quickly and minimize smudging when spreading.
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Do not overbake the brownies; check for doneness early to keep them fudgy and moist.
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Crush candy canes finely for even distribution and better adhesion to the chocolate topping.
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Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water to cut clean squares without cracking.
Delicious Variations to Try
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Swirl melted peppermint candy or peppermint bark into the brownie batter for an extra peppermint punch.
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Add chopped peppermint candies or chocolate chips into the brownie batter for more texture.
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Use white chocolate chips and crushed peppermint for a white chocolate peppermint variation.
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Decorate with sprinkles or edible glitter for extra holiday sparkle.
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Drizzle white chocolate over the finished brownies for an elegant look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade brownie batter?
Yes, you can make your favorite brownie recipe from scratch instead of a box mix. Follow the baking time accordingly.
How long do these brownies stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, wrap individual squares or the whole batch tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Can I omit the frosting?
Yes, the brownies are delicious on their own, but the peppermint frosting adds a festive, creamy layer.
What if I want a less intense peppermint flavor?
Reduce the peppermint extract in the frosting or skip it altogether if you prefer a milder taste.
Print
Peppermint Brownies
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Luscious, fudgy chocolate brownies layered with creamy peppermint frosting, glossy chocolate topping, and crushed candy canes for a festive finish. Perfect for gifting or winter celebrations.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
1 box brownie mix (prepared as per package directions)
Eggs, oil, and water as called for on the box
Cooking spray or butter for greasing pan
Peppermint Frosting
2 tbsp butter, softened
2 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tbsp milk or cream
2 cups powdered sugar
⅛ tsp peppermint extract
Chocolate Topping
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
¼ cup butter
¾ cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
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Bake brownies: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×9‑inch square pan with parchment, leaving an overhang. Prepare brownie batter according to package instructions. Pour into the pan and bake 25–30 minutes, or until edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center has moist crumbs. Cool completely on a wire rack.
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Prepare frosting: Beat butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy. Add milk and mix until smooth. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until thick and creamy, then stir in peppermint extract. Spread frosting evenly over cooled brownies. Freeze 15–20 minutes to firm.
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Make chocolate topping: Melt chocolate chips and butter together in a microwave‑safe bowl using 30‑second intervals, stirring until smooth. Spread evenly over the chilled frosting layer.
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Finish and chill: Sprinkle crushed candy canes over melted chocolate, pressing lightly to adhere. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes to set.
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Slice and serve: Lift brownies from the pan with parchment overhang. Warm a sharp knife under hot water, wipe dry, and cut clean squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Use quality chocolate for richest flavor.
Chill layers to keep neat.
Avoid overbaking for fudgy texture.
Press candy canes in while chocolate soft.
Store airtight to preserve freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Holiday Treat
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (1/16 recipe)
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 27 g
- Sodium: 130 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Keywords: peppermint brownies, chocolate mint dessert, candy cane brownies, holiday brownies, christmas chocolate bars
