Prepare the Brownies:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.

Prepare the Peppermint Bark Topping:

Melt White Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Stir in the peppermint extract.

Spread Topping: Spread the melted white chocolate evenly over the cooled brownies.

Add Peppermint Candies: Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the white chocolate while it’s still wet.

Optional Drizzle: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and drizzle over the top for added decoration.

Set and Slice:

Cool and Set: Let the topping set at room temperature or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until firm.

Slice and Serve: Use the parchment paper to lift the brownies out of the pan. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.