Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray an 8x8 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add in sugar and stir until sugar starts to dissolve. Remove pan from heat and allow to cool for a few minutes. Add eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
3. Stir in cocoa powder until well blended. Add in flour, baking soda and salt. Stir until combined, Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Remove to a wire rack to cool.
6. While brownies are cooling, melt white candy melts according to package instructions. If you are adding the peppermint extract, work quickly by whisking in the extract and immediately spreading the melted candy over the cooled brownies. (Candy will thicken quickly but should still be spreadable)
7. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the top and gently press into the white candy. Once candy topping has hardened slightly, cut into pieces and allow to harden completely before serving.
8. Store leftovers in an airtight container.