Pink Peppermint Brownies

Brownies:
1 box family size deluxe brownie mix
1/2 cup very hot water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 egg
1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract

Frosting:
3 cups confectioners' sugar
1/2 cup peppermint candy, crushed
3 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup margarine or butter, softened
6 to 8 teaspoons milk
1 drop red food color (optional)

Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease bottom of a 13 x 9-inch pan.

In large bowl, combine all brownie ingredients; beat 50 strokes with spoon. Spread batter in prepared pan. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. DO NOT OVERBAKE. Cool.

In medium bowl, beat all frosting ingredients until light and fluffy. Spread over cooled brownies. Cut into bars. Decorate with additional crushed peppermint candy.

Yield: 36 servings