These keto peppermint layer brownies are positively addictive! A moist brownie layer, topped with a peppermint buttercream, all topped with an easy peppermint ganache, this low carb holiday treat is perfect for Christmas or anytime you're craving an ultra-rich dessert that's ultra low in carbs!
Prep 15 minutesminutes
Cook 1 hourhour
Chill 30 minutesminutes
Total 1 hourhour45 minutesminutes
Recipe Makes (Approximate): 16brownies
Equipment
9x9 baking dish
parchment paper
wire cooling rack
Stand mixer or hand mixer
Large bowl
Silicone spatula
Wax paper
Microwave safe bowl
Sharp knife
Ingredients
For the Brownies
110.2-ounce bagKeto and Co Fudge Brownie Mix(or other preferred keto brownie mix, see Notes)
any ingredients needed to prepare brownies according to package instructions
For the Peppermint Buttercream
6tablespoonsbutter(melted)
2 ⅓cupsConfectioners Swerve(one 12-ounce bag)
3tablespoonsheavy cream
1teaspoonpeppermint extract
For the Chocolate Ganache
6tablespoonsbutter(at room temperature, cut into small squares for ease)
sugar-free candy canes or peppermint candies(crushed)
Instructions
For the Brownies
Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit. Line 9x9 baking dish with parchment paper. Prepare brownie mix as instructed on package. Transfer batter to baking dish and bake 30 minutes (see Notes).
Once baked, let brownies cool in baking dish on wire rack. While brownies cool, prepare buttercream.
For the Peppermint Buttercream
In large bowl, use mixer to combine melted butter, Confectioners Swerve, heavy cream, and peppermint extract. Beat all ingredients together on medium speed until mixture is smooth.
When brownies are completely cooled, spread buttercream over top of brownies in one even layer. Press wax paper lightly on top of buttercream to smooth layer evenly if needed. Place brownies in refrigerator and chill 30 minutes.
For the Chocolate Ganache
Place butter and chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring well in between each burst, until chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Stir peppermint extract into melted chocolate, then spoon ganache on top of chilled buttercream frosting.
Use silicone spatula to smooth out ganache into one even layer. If desired, top with crushed candy canes or peppermint candies, then return dish to refrigerator and chill until ganache is hardened.
Once hardened, use sides of parchment paper to lift brownies out of baking dish. To serve the brownies, use a sharp knife that's been warmed under hot running water. It'll slice through the ganache more smoothly than a cold or room temperature knife. Slice into 16 brownies and serve.
Recipe Notes
Brownies: How good your brownie mix is will dramatically change how moist your brownie layer is. I LOVE Keto and Co.'s Fudge Brownie mix, and it gave me totally perfect, moist brownies here. If you use another brand, like Miss Jones, I recommend baking them for 20 to 25 minutes, rather than 30 minutes as directed here. Leaving the brownies slightly underbaked will give you a fudgier, more moist brownie.
Chocolate: Be sure there is absolutely NO moisture at all on your microwave-safe bowl and silicone spatula for stirring. Even the tiniest bit of moisture can make the chocolate seize. If that happens, stirring in a little oil or melted butter can help it smooth back out.