Fudgey Holiday Peppermint Brownies (No Added Sugar)

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 C) and line an 8x8 metal baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk to combine the applesauce, almond or peanut butter, coconut or brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth.
3. Add the cocoa powder, almond flour, and baking soda to the wet ingredients and whisk again to combine.
4. Stir in the baking chips, reserving about 2-3 tablespoons to sprinkle on top.
5. Add the batter to the lined baking pan and sprinkle with crushed candy canes (if using) and the reserved baking chips.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the center has set, being careful not to overbake!
7. Top with flaky sea salt, slice into squares, and serve warm (room temperature is also fine).