Easy Peppermint Brownies (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base

01 - 1 stick (113g) butter, melted and cooled slightly
02 - 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee, at room temperature
05 - 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
06 - 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour
07 - 1/2 cup (50g) cocoa powder
08 - Pinch of kosher salt

→ Topping

09 - 1/2 cup crushed candy canes, divided

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
02 - In a large bowl, stir together melted butter and sugar until combined. Add eggs, coffee, and peppermint extract, stirring until well incorporated.
03 - Fold in flour, cocoa powder, and salt, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
04 - Gently fold half of the crushed candy canes into the batter.
05 - Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking dish with parchment paper. Pour batter into the pan and spread into an even layer using a spatula.
06 - Sprinkle most of the remaining crushed candy canes over the batter, reserving about 1/2 tablespoon for garnish after baking. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until edges pull away from the pan and center is set.
07 - Sprinkle with reserved crushed candy canes. Allow to cool for at least one hour before slicing into squares.

# Notes:

01 - For extra chocolatey brownies, use high-quality cocoa powder.
02 - The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without adding coffee taste.