Frosted Peppermint Brownies Recipe

Frosted Peppermint Brownies are the perfect holiday treat that combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the refreshing sweetness of peppermint frosting. Each bite offers a delightful balance of chocolate richness and minty freshness, topped with a delicate crunch from crushed candy canes. These brownies are ideal for festive gatherings, winter celebrations, or simply as a comforting indulgence during cozy evenings at home. Making them from scratch ensures a homemade quality and flavor that store-bought treats simply cannot match.

Brownies themselves are timeless. Their dense, moist texture paired with sweet, decadent chocolate has made them a favorite for generations. By adding peppermint and frosting, these brownies take on a new level of sophistication, bringing both flavor and visual appeal. The frosting is creamy yet light, providing the perfect contrast to the rich chocolate base. Topping it with crushed candy canes adds a festive touch that instantly elevates the dessert’s presentation. The combination of textures and flavors makes these brownies irresistible to both children and adults alike.

This recipe walks you through each step to create Frosted Peppermint Brownies that taste as if they came from a professional bakery. From melting butter to creating the perfect frosting, you’ll learn how to balance flavors, achieve the ideal brownie texture, and decorate them beautifully. Additionally, we’ll include tips, variations, storage advice, and answers to frequently asked questions to make sure your brownies come out perfectly every time.

Ingredients

For the Brownies
▢ 1/2 cup unsalted butter – melted
▢ 1 cup granulated sugar
▢ 1/2 cup brown sugar
▢ 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
▢ 2 eggs
▢ 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
▢ 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – sifted
▢ 1/8 tsp baking powder
▢ 1/2 tsp salt
▢ 1/3 cup semisweet chocolate OR bittersweet chocolate, chopped (optional)

For the Frosting
▢ 4 oz white chocolate – chopped
▢ 1/2 cup unsalted butter – room temperature
▢ 1 cup powdered sugar
▢ 2 tbsp whole milk OR heavy cream
▢ 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
▢ 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
▢ pinch salt
▢ 1/4 cup candy canes – finely crushed and divided

Method

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper with overhang for easy removal. Proper preparation ensures even baking and prevents sticking. In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar, stirring until smooth and glossy. Add vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The mixture should be smooth and slightly thick, which helps create a chewy, fudgy texture.

In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent a cakier texture. If using chopped semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, fold it in now to create pockets of melted chocolate in the finished brownies. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Tap gently to remove air bubbles. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

To make the frosting, melt the chopped white chocolate gently in a microwave or double boiler, stirring until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before combining with the butter. In a large bowl, cream the room-temperature butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add milk or heavy cream, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and a pinch of salt, beating until smooth. Stir in the melted white chocolate until fully incorporated. Frost the cooled brownies evenly using a spatula and sprinkle half of the crushed candy canes on top. For extra festive appeal, you can reserve some candy cane pieces for decoration just before serving.

Tips for Perfect Frosted Peppermint Brownies

Use high-quality cocoa powder for the deepest chocolate flavor. Ensure butter is fully melted but not hot when adding to sugars, and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter. Do not overmix the batter to maintain a fudgy texture. Cool the brownies completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting. Crush candy canes finely for a more delicate texture or leave some larger pieces for added crunch and decoration. Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

Variations

For a more intense chocolate flavor, you can use dark cocoa powder or add espresso powder to the brownie batter. For a nutty twist, fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds. You can swap peppermint extract for other extracts such as orange or almond for a seasonal twist. For a festive look, drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate over the frosted brownies before adding crushed candy canes. For extra indulgence, layer the frosting and candy canes on mini brownie squares for bite-sized treats.

Serving Ideas

Serve these Frosted Peppermint Brownies as a dessert for holiday dinners, parties, or family gatherings. Pair them with hot chocolate, coffee, or a glass of milk for the ultimate indulgence. Cut into small squares for gift boxes or cookie trays. They also make a thoughtful homemade gift for neighbors, friends, or coworkers during the holiday season. For a winter-themed dessert platter, place brownies alongside peppermint bark, sugar cookies, or chocolate truffles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the brownies a day in advance and frost them the next day. Store unfrosted brownies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely. You can substitute semisweet chocolate with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chunks for a different flavor profile. Just remember that sweeter chocolates may affect the overall sweetness.

How do I prevent the frosting from melting?
Ensure that the brownies are completely cooled before spreading the frosting. If necessary, chill the brownies for 15–20 minutes before frosting to help set the base.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure the cocoa powder and any added chocolate are also gluten-free.

Can I store frosted brownies in the freezer?
Yes, frosted brownies can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What is the best way to crush candy canes?
Place candy canes in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush with a rolling pin or mallet. For finer pieces, pulse them briefly in a food processor.

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Frosted Peppermint Brownies are a show-stopping dessert that combines the best of chocolate and mint flavors in one treat. With careful attention to technique, quality ingredients, and these tips, you can create brownies that are moist, fudgy, and beautifully decorated with creamy peppermint frosting and festive candy cane topping. Perfect for gifting, sharing, or enjoying yourself, these brownies are sure to become a holiday favorite.