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Ultimate Fudgy Peppermint Brownies with Creamy Peppermint Frosting

Close-up of a fudgy peppermint brownie slice topped with bright green mint frosting and crushed candy canes.

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Make rich, fudgy peppermint brownies featuring a cool peppermint frosting layer and crushed candy cane topping. This recipe is simple to follow and perfect for holiday baking or gifting.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon 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 topping)
  • For Frosting: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 12 tablespoons milk
  • Green food coloring (optional)

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 the melted butter and granulated sugar together until combined.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract.
  4. Whisk in the cocoa powder and salt until smooth. Gently fold in the flour until just combined; do not overmix. Fold in the chocolate chips.
  5. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.
  6. While the brownies cool completely, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and milk until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Add a drop of green food coloring if desired.
  7. Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the top.
  8. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the frosting layer. Let the frosting set for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares.

Notes

  • For the fudgiest texture, avoid overbaking. The center should still look slightly soft when you remove them from the oven.
  • You can make this a one bowl recipe by mixing dry ingredients into the wet ingredients in the same bowl.
  • Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best dark chocolate flavor.
  • These brownies keep well stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days.

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