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