Peppermint Treats (Printable Version)
Chocolatey bars with creamy mint frosting and crushed candy topping. A cozy, winter-ready dessert to share or enjoy alone!
# Ingredients:
→ Chocolate Base
01 -
1 teaspoon vanilla essence
02 -
2 large eggs
03 -
½ cup unsalted butter
04 -
⅓ cup cocoa powder
05 -
¼ teaspoon salt
06 -
¾ cup white sugar
07 -
½ cup plain flour
→ Minty Frosting
08 -
½ teaspoon peppermint flavoring
09 -
1 cup powdered sugar
10 -
2 tablespoons softened butter
11 -
1-2 tablespoons milk
12 -
Optional: 2-3 drops of red food dye
→ Decorations
13 -
¼ cup crushed peppermint candies
# Steps:
01 -
Heat your oven to 350°F. Line a square 8x8 pan with some parchment paper, making sure to leave extra hanging over the edges for easy lifting later.
02 -
In a heatproof bowl, melt the butter. Stir in sugar until smooth. Mix in eggs one at a time, then toss in the vanilla. Finally, gently add the cocoa powder, flour, and salt, mixing just enough to combine.
03 -
Spread the brownie mixture evenly in the lined pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking with a toothpick—it should have a few soft crumbs. Set them aside to cool completely in the pan.
04 -
Beat the softened butter until it's creamy. Slowly mix in the powdered sugar. Stir in milk and peppermint essence until smooth. If you'd like, fold in some food coloring to get a light pink hue.
05 -
Smooth the frosting over the cooled brownie base, or swirl it for a pretty effect. Sprinkle the crushed candy pieces on top, slice into square portions, and you're ready to dig in!
# Notes:
01 -
Keep them fresh by storing in an airtight box at room temperature for up to three days.
02 -
For a crunchier candy topping, sprinkle the crushed mints just before you eat.
03 -
You can pop leftovers in the freezer and thaw on the counter when needed.