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Rich, Fudgy One-Bowl Peppermint Brownies with Candy Cane Frosting

A rich, dark chocolate peppermint brownie slice topped with thick white frosting and crushed candy canes.

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Make these rich, fudgy peppermint brownies in one bowl for easy cleanup. They feature a cool mint flavor, creamy peppermint frosting, and a festive topping of crushed candy canes, perfect for holiday baking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (for brownie batter)
  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
  • 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (for frosting)
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (for frosting)
  • 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar together until combined.
  3. Whisk in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing only until just combined. Do not overmix. Fold in the chocolate chips, if using.
  6. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
  7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out with moist crumbs attached, not wet batter, for fudgy results.
  8. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is important before frosting.
  9. Prepare the frosting: In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk or cream, and 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract until smooth and creamy. Add more milk, one teaspoon at a time, if the frosting is too stiff.
  10. Once the brownies are cool, spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the top.
  11. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the frosting immediately so they stick.
  12. Cut the brownies into squares and serve. These are excellent festive chocolate treats.

Notes

  • For extra fudgy peppermint brownies, use melted chocolate along with the cocoa powder in the batter.
  • If you want a thicker, chewier brownie, use a 9×9 inch pan instead, but reduce the baking time slightly and check often.
  • You can use store-bought peppermint extract or natural mint extract for a different flavor profile.
  • Save leftover candy canes specifically for making these peppermint bark brownies.

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