Ingredients
Brownies
- 1 cup salted butter, melted
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups (212g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup chopped pecans or semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
Frosting
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup salted butter, softened
- 4 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes, plus more for decorating
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Line a 9×13-inch rectangular baking pan with parchment paper, creating a sling for easy removal of the brownies later.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted salted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well combined and smooth.
- Add dry ingredients: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and unsweetened cocoa powder using a spatula or wooden spoon until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
- Incorporate mix-ins: Stir in the chopped pecans or semisweet chocolate chips evenly throughout the batter.
- Bake the brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting: While the brownies cool, beat together the softened salted butter, heavy cream, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and powdered sugar in a large bowl. Continue beating for 3 to 4 minutes until the frosting is creamy and light in texture.
- Add candy cane crunch: Fold the crushed candy canes into the frosting carefully to retain some texture and festive flavor.
- Frost the brownies: Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the top. Sprinkle additional crushed candy canes on the frosting as a decorative and tasty garnish.
- Serve: Cut the frosted brownies into 15 squares and serve. Enjoy this festive and flavorful dessert!
Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and increase chocolate chips or add other mix-ins.
- Allow the brownies to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Use high-quality peppermint extract for the best flavor impact.
- Crush candy canes finely but leave some small pieces for texture in the frosting and topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 27 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American