Peppermint slice

Peppermint slice is again one of those treats we Aussies grew up with. Birthday parties, picnics, whatever the occasion you were sure to find this slice there. I'm sure every one's mum had their own version, this one I found on the net, not loving the green food coloring or the lack of chocolate topping in the pic but if you follow the recipe you end up with something that tastes a wee bit like an after8.

I made it recently for the family branding and it was received well and I even had a few requests for the recipe, hence this post. If you're not familiar with Marie biscuits head to the Superstore or any well stocked supermarket and look for plain tea biscuits.
So here it is, hope you enjoy it.

Base:
2 x 250 g packets Marie biscuits
1 x 395 g tin sweetened condensed milk
250 g melted butter
11/2 cups shredded coconut
2 tablespoon cocoa powder

Filling:
2 cups icing sugar
4 tablespoons softened butter
2 tablespoons of cream
4 teaspoons peppermint essence ( I know that sounds like a lot, you will just have to trust me!)

Top:
2 cups icing sugar
3 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 - 2 tablespoons of water ( I think I used a bit more, use your judgement. You want it to set like a firm icing.

Method:
1. Mix together the crushed biscuits, coconut and cocoa.
2. Stir in the condensed milk and melted butter and press into a tray.
3. Set in fridge while making the filling.
4.Filling: In a bowl, mix the icing sugar, softened butter, cream and peppermint essence.
Add a couple of drops of food coloring if desired....or not!
5. Spread over the base evenly and very carefully with the back of a large spoon.Allow to set in the fridge for 20 - 30 minutes before adding the topping.
6. Topping: Mix the icing sugar and the cocoa.
7. Stir while gradually adding the water until mixture is firm but still thin enough to spread over the peppermint cream filling.
8. Spread over filling and refrigerate.