Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9x9 inch baking dish and set aside.
In a large bowl combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder and salt.
In a small microwave safe bowl melt the butter and chocolate together stirring every 30 seconds. Stir in the cream, eggs and vanilla. Add to the dry ingredients and stir just until combined.
Spread half of the brownie batter into prepared pan. Top with unwrapped peppermint patties. Spread the remaining brownie batter carefully over the peppermint patties. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Serve with a generous scoop of ice cream and a drizzle of hot fudge sauce if desired.