Peppermint Surprise Mini Brownies

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350 degrees and adjust oven rack to the middle position. Line 8-inch-square baking pan with parchment paper in both directions, making sure that at least 1 inch overhangs the top on all sides. Butter or spray the bottom.

Step 2: Melt butter and chocolate together. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate small bowl. Set aside.

Step 4: Whisk sugar and eggs together in large bowl. Stir chocolate mixture and vanilla into egg mixture. Stir in flour mixture until just incorporated.

Step 5: Set 1 cup of the brownie batter aside. Pour remaining batter into the prepared baking pan. Arrange Peppermint Patties on top of batter, leaving about 1/2 inch between each piece. Smooth reserved 1 cup batter over candy.

Step 6: Bake until just set in center, 30 to 35 minutes. (Cake tester won’t work because of candy.) Cool completely in pan on wire rack, about 2 hours.

Step 7: Grasp overhanging parchment on sides of pan and transfer brownies to a cutting board. Cut into 36 pieces and serve. Brownies will keep at room temperature in airtight container for up to 3 days.