Peppermint Stick Brownies
SERVES 48
1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/4 cups sugar
3/4 cup butter
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup milk
3/4 cup mint chocolate chips
1 cup walnuts
Fudge Frosting
2 (1 ounce) unsweetened chocolate squares
1/4 cup butter
3 1/3 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
1 teaspoon vanilla
2-4 tablespoons hot water
1/2 cup broken peppermint stick candy (or coarsely crushed striped round peppermint candies)
In a medium bowl stir together flour, baking powder, and baking soda; set
aside.
In a large saucepan combine the sugar, butter and cocoa powder. Cook over
medium heat till butter melts, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.
Add eggs and vanilla. Using a wooden spoon, LIGHTLY beat just till combined
(DON’T OVERBEAT). Add the flour mixture and milk alternately to the
chocolate mixture, beating after each addition. Stir in the chocolate pieces
and nuts.
Spread batter into a 15x10x1-inch baking pan.
Bake in a 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes or till a wooden toothpick
inserted near center comes out clean.
Fudge frosting: In a small heavy saucepan melt unsweetened chocolate and
butter over low heat, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat. Stir in
sifted powdered sugar and vanilla. Stir in enough hot water (2 to 4 tbsp) to
make a soft spreading consistency.
Sprinkle with crushed peppermint. Cut into bars.