Decadent Peppermint Dream Brownies
Indulge in these decadent Peppermint Dream Brownies that are bursting with holiday spirit! Inspired by my sister-in-law's delicious Christmas treat, these brownies have transformed into a perennial favorite that I can’t resist baking for any gathering. With a moist, fudgy base topped with a rich peppermint icing and a smooth chocolate glaze, they're guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. Not only are they a hit with my kids, but they are also a festive eye-catcher that everyone will be begging for the recipe. A touch of crushed candy canes adds a delightful crunch and a stunning visual appeal, making these brownies a must-try during the holiday season and beyond!
24
Servings
125
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Brownie mix
1 (22 1/2 ounce) package (Use a brownie mix such as Betty Crocker with the included Hershey's syrup pouch.)
Powdered sugar
2 cups (Sifted for a smoother icing.)
Milk
2 tablespoons (Regular or any non-dairy milk.)
Peppermint extract
1/2 teaspoon (For a burst of minty flavor.)
Butter
4 tablespoons (Softened for the icing.)
Semi-sweet chocolate baking squares or chips
3 ounces (Chopped if using squares.)
Butter
3 tablespoons (To melt with chocolate.)
Candy canes
2 (Crushed for topping (optional).)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven and prepare a 9 x 13 inch baking pan according to the brownie mix package directions.
2
Prepare and bake the brownies as directed on the package. Allow them to cool completely in the pan.
3
In a mixing bowl, combine the sifted powdered sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and 4 tablespoons of softened butter. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4
Once the brownies are cooled, spread the peppermint icing evenly over the top using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
5
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate and 3 tablespoons of butter. Microwave in short intervals (approximately 12 seconds at a time), stirring after each interval, until completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overcook.
6
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peppermint icing and use a spatula to spread it evenly.
7
If desired, sprinkle the top with the crushed candy canes for extra crunch and festive flair.
8
Allow the chocolate topping to set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares. Store in an airtight container.
Nutrition Information
6.25g
Fat
18.75g
Carbs
1.25g
Protein
14.58g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Decadent Peppermint Dream Brownies?
They are a festive dessert featuring a moist, fudgy brownie base, a creamy peppermint icing layer, and a smooth semi-sweet chocolate glaze topped with crushed candy canes.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 24 servings.
What size pan should I use for these brownies?
A 9 x 13 inch baking pan is required for this recipe.
What type of brownie mix is recommended?
A 22.5 ounce package of brownie mix, such as Betty Crocker with the Hershey's syrup pouch, is suggested.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 125 calories per serving.
What are the ingredients for the peppermint icing?
The icing consists of 2 cups of sifted powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract, and 4 tablespoons of softened butter.
Do I need to sift the powdered sugar?
Yes, sifting the powdered sugar is recommended to ensure a smoother icing texture.
Can I use non-dairy milk for the icing?
Yes, you can use regular milk or any non-dairy milk alternative.
How do I prepare the chocolate glaze?
Combine 3 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate with 3 tablespoons of butter and microwave in short 12-second intervals until melted.
Can I use chocolate chips for the glaze?
Yes, you can use either semi-sweet chocolate baking squares or chocolate chips.
When should I apply the peppermint icing to the brownies?
The icing should be spread only after the brownies have cooled completely in the pan.
How do I prevent the chocolate from burning in the microwave?
Microwave in short 12-second intervals and stir after each interval until the mixture is smooth.
What is the optional topping for these brownies?
You can sprinkle the top with 2 crushed candy canes for added crunch and festive visual appeal.
How long should the chocolate topping set?
The chocolate topping should set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cutting.
How should the brownies be stored?
Store the brownies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
What is the total fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 6.25g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in each brownie?
Each serving contains 18.75g of carbohydrates.
What is the sugar content of these brownies?
There are 14.58g of sugar per serving.
Is there any protein in these brownies?
Yes, there is approximately 1.25g of protein per serving.
What category of food does this recipe belong to?
This recipe is categorized as a Bar Cookie.
How many total ingredients are needed for this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients required for this recipe.
What is the inspiration behind this recipe?
The recipe was inspired by a delicious Christmas treat made by the creator's sister-in-law.
Are these brownies suitable for a holiday gathering?
Yes, they are described as a festive eye-catcher that is bursting with holiday spirit.
Can I make these brownies outside of the holiday season?
Yes, they have become a perennial favorite suitable for any gathering year-round.
What gives the icing its minty flavor?
The minty flavor comes from 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract.
How much butter is used in total for the recipe?
A total of 7 tablespoons of butter is used: 4 for the icing and 3 for the chocolate glaze.
Does this recipe include sodium information?
Sodium information is not provided for this specific recipe.
How should I prep the brownie mix?
Preheat your oven and prepare the pan according to the directions on the specific brownie mix package you purchased.
Is the candy cane topping necessary?
The candy cane topping is optional but adds a delightful crunch and stunning visual appeal.
How should the brownies be cut?
Once the chocolate has set, cut the brownies into squares using a knife or spatula.