My {Peppermint} Fix

The combination
of peppermint and chocolate.
Ok, call me basic. 

It's a simple fact. The marriage of chocolate and mint has become a symbol of the holidays. Falling second to the dreadful pumpkin craze of course.

But why do these iconic flavors we hold so near and dear to our hearts trigger our seasonal cravings? It's no wonder why peppermint mocha lattes are so popular.

Maybe it's the calming nature of peppermint that draws us in. It flavors our tea, gum and toothpaste, but when you add rich and decadent chocolate, it becomes something else entirely.

I know the holidays can be busy enough with surprise visits from your in-laws and that last minute gift you have to buy for the kind-of, sort-of friend from your yoga class who just ambushed you with a super thoughtful present. So here's a way to jazz up store bought brownie mix, by adding your own personal, holiday touch. Outside of what the brownie mix calls for, you only need three additional ingredients.

Peppermint Oreo Brownies
Makes 20 Brownies

You Need:
-1 box triple chocolate Ghirardelli Brownie Mix
-Peppermint extract
-6 candy canes
-1 container of Oreos

Wet Ingredients:
-2/3 cup water
-2/3 cup vegetable oil
-2 eggs

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees.

Pour two packets of brownie mix into a large mixing bowl. Combine water, oil and eggs in a separate bowl and whisk together until blended.

Crush candy canes into fine pieces in a blender or plastic bag. Pour half of the crushed candy canes in the brownie mix bowl, and set the others aside.

Add the bowl of wet ingredients into your large mixing bowl and stir together until everything is well mixed. Add a few drops (2-4) of peppermint extract and mix thoroughly into the batter. {Peppermint extract in very strong. The small amount packs a lot of flavor.}

Scoop half of the batter into a 9x13 in baking dish. Layer whole Oreos on top of the batter and then add another layer of batter on top.

Place the brownies in the oven, and set a timer for 55 minutes. This recipe makes the texture very soft and gooey. If you like your brownies more well done, add 5 minutes to the baking time.

Once the brownies are cooked to your liking, take them out of the oven and sprinkle remaining candy cane pieces and Oreos on top. Let them cool for about an hour before cutting.

These are great to bring to a holiday party. The brownie mix tackles all the hard work for you, and guests will be impressed that you added your own, homemade spin. Or serve them up with peppermint ice cream. It's both and fun and indulgent way to enjoy the season.