Peppermint Brownies

If there's one thing guaranteed to get me in the holiday spirit, it's peppermint recipes. I love the flavor in hot chocolate, coffee, cookies, candy, you name it! In my Christmas movie, Candy Coated Christmas, a few years back, I played a bakery owner in the fictional town of Peppermint Hollow (fitting!) who was known for her mint brownie bites. They're just the cutest homemade food gift to box up and share with friends, stick on a Christmas cookie plate, or bring to a Christmas party. They're also a great way to use up all those stray candy canes you've accumulated throughout December. If you're planning to make these be sure to make an extra batch for yourself, too!

How do you know when peppermint brownies are done baking?

Use the toothpick test: Stick a toothpick in the center and if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they're done. The moist crumbs just mean the brownies will be good and fudgy which is exactly what you want. If the toothpick looks like it's covered in batter, though, they'll need to bake longer.

Do these peppermint brownies use peppermint extract?

They sure do—that's what makes them taste like Christmas! I like them nice and minty, but if you like a more subtle peppermint flavor you can use half the amount called for in the recipe.

Where do you find peppermint extract?

Peppermint extract can be found in the baking aisle at most grocery stores near where you'd find the vanilla extract.

Is butter or oil better for brownies?

I like using butter in homemade brownies. Boxed mixes will have you use oil, but butter gives brownies a richer taste and cakey texture.

What's the best way to store peppermint brownies?

To keep them fresh for several days, store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. You can cut pieces of parchment paper and use them to layer the brownies on one another without hurting the topping.