Ingredients
- Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), melted
- Granulated Sugar: 1 cup
- Large Eggs: 2
- All-Purpose Flour: 3/4 cup
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: 1/2 cup
- Peppermint Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Crushed Candy Canes: 1/2 cup, divided
- Pinch of Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 inch metal baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the edges to overhang for easy removal.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the peppermint extract.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing only until just combined. Fold 1/4 cup of the crushed candy canes into the batter.
- Step 4: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Step 5: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before using the parchment paper overhang to lift them onto a wire rack. While still warm, immediately sprinkle the remaining crushed candy canes evenly over the top, pressing gently so they adhere to the surface.
- Step 6: Let the brownies cool completely before cutting into squares for clean slices.
Notes
- To maintain the festive crunch and prevent the candy cane topping from becoming sticky, store the cooled brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for no more than 3 days.
- For an extra gooey texture, reheat chilled individual squares in the microwave for just 8-10 seconds; this subtle warmth amplifies the peppermint flavor beautifully.
- Pair a square with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or serve alongside a hot peppermint mocha for an unbeatable holiday treat.
- Since peppermint extract is potent, use precisely 1 teaspoon as noted, because being heavy-handed can easily cause the flavor to overpower the rich chocolate base.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American