Get ready to transform your ordinary baking routine into a festive flavor explosion! These Frosted Holiday Mint M&M Brownies are not just a dessert—they're a celebration in every bite. Imagine rich, chocolatey brownies studded with vibrant holiday mint M&Ms, topped with creamy frosting and a sprinkle of peppermint crunch that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're hosting a holiday party, looking for a show-stopping treat, or simply craving something decadently delicious, these brownies are guaranteed to become your new seasonal obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup holiday mint M&Ms
- 1 cup frosting (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Whisk or mix with an electric mixer until the batter is smooth and no dry ingredients remain, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gently fold in 3/4 cup of the holiday mint M&Ms into the brownie batter, reserving the remaining 1/4 cup for topping.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform thickness.
- Sprinkle the reserved mint M&Ms across the top of the batter, pressing them lightly so they slightly sink into the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 24-27 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center - it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for approximately 1 hour.
- Once cooled, spread the frosting evenly across the top of the brownies using an offset spatula or knife.
- Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the frosted surface, creating a festive and crunchy topping.
- Cut into 16 equal squares, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.
- Serve and enjoy the festive mint brownies at room temperature. Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure eggs and other ingredients are at room temperature for smoother batter integration.
- Don't Overmix: Gently fold ingredients to keep brownies tender and avoid a tough texture.
- Check Doneness Early: Start checking brownies 2-3 minutes before recommended baking time to prevent overcooking.
- Cool Completely: Allow brownies to cool entirely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
- Cutting Trick: Use a warm, clean knife and wipe between cuts for perfectly neat brownie squares.
- Storage Hack: Store in an airtight container with parchment between layers to maintain freshness.
- Make Ahead: These brownies actually taste better the next day as flavors meld together!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 214kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 23mg
