PEPPERMINT CANDY BROWNIES

 

1 package fudge brownie mix
1/2 cup oil
1/4 cup water
2 eggs
2 cups whipping cream
1 envelope unflavored gelatin
1 cup crushed round peppermint candies + 24 for garnish

Preheat oven to 350° F.
Line 13 X 9 pan with parchment paper, spraying bottom of pan with nonstick spray. Prepare brownie mix as directed using oil, water, and eggs. Spread into prepared pan. Bake for 28 to 30 minutes, being careful not to over bake. Cool for at least 1 hour.

In a small saucepan, place 1/2 cup cream. Sprinkle with gelatin, let stand to soften. Heat over low for 2 to 3 minutes, until gelatin dissolves, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat. Stir in crushed candies. Cool for half an hour, stirring occasionally. Most of candy will melt.

Beat remaining 1 1/2 cup of cream in a large bowl until stiff peaks form. Fold in remaining crushed candies. Working quickly, stir in 1/4 of cream mixture into gelatin mixture. Fold gelatin mixture into remaining whipped cream until blended. Spread cream mixture over cooled brownies. Cover, refrigerate at least 1 hour or until serving time. To serve, lift dessert from pan with paper, cut into squares. Garnish each square with a whole peppermint.