Easy Peppermint Icing Brownies
A festive boxed-mix shortcut that looks homemade—without taking over your holiday schedule.
These brownies with peppermint icing are less of a complicated recipe and more of a very good idea: turn an ordinary pan of brownies into a festive dessert that looks like you spent far more time on it than you actually did. Rich chocolate, creamy peppermint frosting, and crunchy candy pieces make every square feel Christmas-ready.
What You Need
- 1 box brownie mix, plus the water, oil, and eggs listed on the package
- 1 tub prepared vanilla or cream cheese-style frosting
- Peppermint extract, added a little at a time
- Soft peppermint candies or candy canes, crushed
That’s it! This shortcut saves time during the busiest season of the year, and the ingredients are easy to keep on hand. Watch for brownie mix, frosting, and peppermint candy sales, then stock up before holiday baking begins.
How to Make Peppermint Icing Brownies
- Prepare and bake the brownie mix according to the package directions, using the pan size recommended on the box.
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan. Warm brownies can melt the frosting and turn it runny.
- Stir a small amount of peppermint extract into the frosting. Taste, then add more only if needed—peppermint gets strong quickly.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled brownies with a spatula.
- Sprinkle crushed peppermint candy over the top and press it in gently so it stays put.
- For cleaner slices, chill the pan for about 15 minutes to set the frosting, then cut and serve.
Would I Change Anything?
I kept the peppermint in the frosting because I didn’t want it to overpower the chocolate, especially with crushed candy on top. After tasting the finished brownies, though, I thought a little peppermint in the batter could be delicious too. If you love a bold mint-chocolate flavor, add a small amount to the batter before baking. If you prefer a gentler flavor, keep it in the frosting only.
Because brands and extracts vary in strength, taste the frosting as you go. If you try peppermint in the brownie batter, let me know in the comments how it turned out—I may do the same next time.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Brownies
- Line the pan: A parchment-paper sling makes it easier to lift the brownies out and cut tidy squares.
- Don’t overmix: Stir the batter just until combined so the brownies stay tender rather than tough.
- Check early: Ovens vary. Begin checking near the earliest time on the box; a toothpick should show moist crumbs, not wet batter.
- Cool completely: This is the secret to frosting that stays thick and smooth.
- Crush candy neatly: Place the peppermints in a sealed bag, cover it with a kitchen towel, and tap with a rolling pin.
- Use a clean knife: Wipe the blade between cuts. For extra-clean edges, chill the frosted brownies briefly before slicing.
- Add candy close to serving: Peppermint pieces can soften or become sticky as they sit on moist frosting.
Fun Facts
- Chocolate and peppermint are a holiday classic because cool mint brightens the rich cocoa flavor.
- Peppermint extract is concentrated, so a tiny amount can flavor an entire tub of frosting.
- A boxed mix is a semi-homemade shortcut, not a compromise—festive toppings and thoughtful presentation make the dessert feel special.
- Chilling the frosting briefly firms it up, which makes party-ready squares much easier to cut.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these brownies at room temperature for the softest texture, or slightly chilled for a firmer, fudgier bite. They pair nicely with hot cocoa, coffee, or a cold glass of milk. For dessert, warm an unfrosted or lightly frosted square briefly and add vanilla ice cream. For a party tray, cut the brownies into small bites and place each one in a mini paper liner. They also make an easy homemade gift: arrange the squares in a parchment-lined tin and separate layers so the frosting stays neat.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Room temperature: Keep the brownies tightly covered in a cool, dry place and follow the frosting package directions. A standard prepared frosting is commonly suitable at room temperature, but dairy-heavy or homemade frostings may require refrigeration.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container if your frosting label calls for chilling or if your kitchen is warm. Let the brownies sit out briefly before serving for a softer texture.
- Freezer: For best appearance, freeze the brownies before frosting. Wrap the cooled slab or individual squares well, place in a freezer-safe container, thaw covered, then frost and decorate.
- Make ahead: Bake the brownies a day in advance, cool them, and keep them covered. Frost and add the crushed peppermint closer to serving for the freshest crunch.
More Holiday Treats
If you like peppermint and minty flavors, try the Candy Cane Kisses Cheesecake.
Prefer another brownie idea? Try these Christmas Cake Brownies, made from cake mix.
Items Used in This Recipe
If you’re interested in items I used—or similar options—I’ve listed a few below. These are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use mint extract instead of peppermint?
They are not always the same flavor. Peppermint extract gives the familiar candy-cane taste, so check the bottle and use a light hand if substituting.
Can I add peppermint to both the batter and frosting?
Yes, especially if you love a strong mint flavor. Start small in each layer so the peppermint supports the chocolate instead of taking it over.
When should I add the crushed candy?
Add it after frosting. If you are making the brownies ahead, wait until closer to serving so the candy stays crisp and bright.
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Rock on!
~Bobbi
Brownies with Peppermint Icing
Equipment
- 9×13 Baking dish
Ingredients
- 1 Box Brownie Mix + ingredients required
- 1 12 oz Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1/8 Tsp Peppermint Extract More if you LOVE peppermint
- 10 Soft Peppermints
Instructions
- Preheat oven based on Brownie instructions
- Follow the steps on the Brownie Box to make your brownies.
- Pour brownie mix into a 13 x 9 dish. Bake as directed. Cool for 1 – 1 1/2 hours.
- Add the peppermint extract to the tub of frosting/icing. Stir well. Slather on top of the cooled brownies.
- Crush Soft Peppermints. Either by hand, or food processor. Sprinkle over Icing.
- Slice and Serve.
Notes
Nutrition
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