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Festive Mint Brownies! $14
Ingredients:
-2/3 cup all-purpose flour
-1/4 teaspoon baking powder
-1/4 teaspoon baking soda
-1/8 teaspoon salt
-3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
-3 tablespoons butter
-1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
-2 large eggs
-1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
-1/2 cup white sugar
-1/2 cup chopped walnuts
-1/2 cup white chocolate chips

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Grease an 8 inch square baking pan.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
4. In a double boiler, melt together the semisweet chocolate chips and butter.
5. In another bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, eggs, peppermint extract and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
6. Pour the melted chocolate over the egg mixture then add in the dry ingredients.
7. Stir in the walnuts and white chocolate chips.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
9. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool and cut into 16 individual brownies.

Wine Pairing: Pair with a rich dry red wine, like a Malbec or Merlot.

Descriptive Paragraph:

Introduction:

Festive Mint Brownies are a delicious holiday treat enjoyed around the world. Resembling chocolate chip cookies in taste, these goodies were initially inspired by a recipe first seen in a vintage cookbook in the 1950s. Since then, they have become a much-loved dessert during the Christmas, Easter, Hanukkah, and other holiday seasons. Below, you will learn all about the history of Festive Mint Brownies, what regions they are popular in, and a few interesting facts about them.

History of Festive Mint Brownies:

The first iteration of Festive Mint Brownies was seen in a vintage cookbook in the 1950s. This cookbook was published by the National Biscuit Company, or Nabisco, and was called “The Home Bakery Favorites.” The recipe entailed instructions for baking a type of drop cookie in various shapes and sizes.

The modern-day iteration of Mint Brownies likely derives from that initial recipe. Generally, Festive Mint Brownies are prepared with a chocolate cookie dough base, which is then topped with a mint-flavored icing. This icing is typically made with peppermint and green food colorings. Some recipes also call for the inclusion of chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and other ingredients.

Areas of Popularity:

Festive Mint Brownies are particularly popular in the United States and Canada. During the holiday season, they are often served as dessert treats by families and friends along with warm mulled cider and coffee. Additionally, Festive Mint Brownies are also served in Spanish-speaking cultures during Christmastime, particularly in Mexico and Cuba.

Interesting Facts:

One interesting fact about Festive Mint Brownies is that the icing is often made with crushed candy canes, lending a distinct peppermint flavor. Some recipes also call for the inclusion of white chocolate chips, adding an extra element of sweetness.

Another fact about these delightful treats is that they are sometimes included in holiday-themed boxes and gift baskets. These boxes and baskets often contain various other baked goods as well, such as peppermint-topped chocolate cookies and hard gingerbread.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Festive Mint Brownies are beloved holiday treats enjoyed by many. Their origins trace back to the 1950s, when a recipe for chocolate cookies with various decorations were published. Due to the delectable combination of chocolate and peppermint, these brownies are popular in the United States, Canada, and Spanish-speaking cultures. Further interesting facts include the inclusion of crushed candy canes and white chocolate chips in the recipe, as well as the presence of the treats in holiday-themed boxes and baskets.

References:
Festive Mint Brownies on Wikipedia
National Biscuit Company on Wikipedia