Candy cane brownies are the dessert that stops the show at any holiday gathering. Imagine the deep, fudgy goodness of brownies meeting the incredible, crunchy burst of peppermint. That’s a match made for winter magic. These festive treats don’t just look the part—they taste like everything cozy, cheerful, and chocolatey that the season stands for.
This article will take you through everything you need to know to whip up these dreamy delights. From the basics and background to full step-by-step recipes and fun variations, it’s all covered here. So grab your apron, and let’s dive right into the holiday-baking joy.
Understanding Candy Cane Brownies
What Are Candy Cane Brownies?
Candy cane brownies are simply classic chocolate brownies with a peppermint twist. They combine a dense, chocolate-rich base with a peppermint-infused topping, often made with crushed candy canes. The contrast between the soft, chewy brownie layers and the crisp topping creates a wonderful texture.
But it’s not just about the bite—it’s about the balance. The deep cocoa flavor in the brownies pairs beautifully with the light, sharp, minty taste of candy canes. Some recipes also add a swirl of peppermint frosting or a chocolate drizzle to make them extra special.
This dessert is a favorite at Christmas parties, bake sales, and cozy family nights. And thanks to its easy prep and crowd-pleasing flavor, it’s earned a solid spot in the seasonal dessert hall of fame.
The History Behind the Treat
The Origins of Brownies
Brownies date back to the early 20th century, appearing in American cookbooks as a quick, easy dessert bar that falls somewhere between cake and fudge. Over the years, they’ve been endlessly customized—everything from swirls of cream cheese to chunks of nuts.
Adding Peppermint to the Mix
Now, here’s where the holiday twist comes in. Adding peppermint—especially in the form of candy canes—turns an everyday brownie into a festive showstopper. Peppermint has long been associated with winter holidays, thanks to its presence in everything from hot chocolate to peppermint bark. So, adding it to brownies was a no-brainer for creative bakers.
This flavor fusion likely started popping up in kitchens and holiday-themed blogs around the early 2000s, riding the wave of seasonal baking trends. Since then, it’s become a go-to for home bakers looking to add some holiday sparkle to a familiar favorite.
Coming up next: We’ll break down every ingredient and tool you’ll need to get started.
Essential Ingredients and Tools
Making candy cane brownies doesn’t need fancy stuff. A few simple ingredients and tools will get you there. Let’s look at what you need to make this treat at home.
Key Ingredients for Candy Cane Brownies
Chocolate Base
Brownies are all about rich chocolate flavor. You can use either unsweetened cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate. Both give deep flavor. Cocoa powder gives a light texture. Melted chocolate makes them extra fudgy.
Choose good-quality chocolate. It makes a big difference. Look for 70% cocoa or higher if you’re using bars. If you like a mild taste, semisweet chocolate works well, too.
Peppermint Elements
This is what makes your brownies holiday-ready. Crushed candy canes are the star. You can buy them or crush whole candy canes yourself. Just place them in a zip bag and hit gently with a rolling pin.
To boost the peppermint flavor, add peppermint extract. A few drops go a long way. Make sure you use peppermint, not spearmint. They taste very different.
Other Essentials
You’ll also need some basics:
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Flour – All-purpose flour works best.
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Sugar – Use white sugar for sweetness and shine.
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Unsalted is preferred.
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Eggs – These give structure and richness.
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Salt – A small pinch brings out the flavors.
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Vanilla extract – This adds warmth and depth.
These are the core items. You probably already have most of them in your kitchen.
Recommended Kitchen Tools
Baking Equipment
You don’t need anything fancy. But a few tools make baking easier:
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Mixing bowls – One large and one medium will do.
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Whisk and spatula – For mixing and folding.
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8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan – Grease it or line it with parchment paper.
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Measuring cups and spoons – Accuracy matters here.
Optional Tools
If you want to level up your baking, try these:
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A stand mixer or hand mixer to blend faster.
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A sifter to mix dry ingredients evenly.
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Silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.
But honestly? You can make great brownies without any of those extras.
Now that your pantry and tools are ready, it’s time to get baking. Let’s go through the steps next.
Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
Ready to bake? This part will walk you through every step to make classic candy cane brownies. Keep it simple, and don’t rush. Good brownies take a little care.
How to Make Classic Candy Cane Brownies
Preparing the Brownie Batter
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Stir them together with a whisk or spoon. This helps spread the cocoa evenly.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, crack 2 large eggs. Add 1 cup of white sugar and ½ cup of melted butter. Beat with a whisk until smooth. Then, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract. Stir again.
Combining Wet and Dry
Slowly add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir gently with a spatula. Don’t overmix. Stop when you don’t see any dry flour left. The batter should be thick and glossy.
Baking the Brownies
Preheating the Oven
Turn your oven on to 350°F (175°C). Let it heat while you finish the batter.
Pouring and Spreading
Grease your baking pan or line it with parchment. Pour the brownie batter in. Spread it flat with a spatula. Try to keep the layers even so it bakes the same all over.
Baking Time
Place the pan in the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Don’t open the oven too much. Use a toothpick to check—it should come out with a few moist crumbs. That means it’s ready.
Adding the Candy Cane Topping
Crushing Candy Canes
Place 4 to 5 candy canes in a plastic bag. Use a rolling pin to crush them. You want small bits, not powder. They should still have some crunch.
Sprinkling on Top
After baking, take the brownies out. Let them cool for 10 minutes. Then, sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top. If you add them while the brownies are too hot, they may melt too much.
Let them cool fully before cutting. That gives you cleaner slices and better texture. Now you’ve got peppermint-packed brownies ready to enjoy.
Variations and Customizations
Want to try something new? Candy cane brownies can be changed in fun ways. Below are some easy ideas. You can mix things up based on what you like or have at home.
Creative Twists on Candy Cane Brownies
Frosted Candy Cane Brownies
Adding Frosting
Love extra sweetness? Add frosting on top. A simple vanilla buttercream or chocolate frosting works great. Spread it after the brownies have cooled. Then, top with crushed candy canes.
Decorative Toppings
Make them look festive. Try white chocolate chips, red sprinkles, or crushed cookies. These add color and crunch. You can even drizzle melted chocolate on top for a fancier finish.
Layered Peppermint Brownies
Creating Layers
Want to impress? Make layers. First, bake a thin brownie layer. Let it cool. Then, add a peppermint cream layer. Use cream cheese, sugar, and peppermint extract. Chill it for 10 minutes. Then, pour another brownie layer on top and bake again.
Presentation Tips
Slice into small squares. Clean your knife after each cut. That gives sharp edges. Add a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for sparkle.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Options
Ingredient Substitutions
For gluten-free brownies, use almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix. To go vegan, replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg). Use dairy-free butter and skip regular chocolate chips for vegan ones.
Baking Adjustments
Gluten-free batters may need a few more minutes in the oven. Vegan brownies can be softer, so let them cool longer before cutting. They firm up as they sit.
These fun versions are just the start. Mix, match, and make them your own. Baking is more fun when you get creative.
Serving and Storage Tips
You’ve baked the brownies. Now, let’s talk about how to serve them and keep them fresh. A little care makes a big difference.
Best Practices for Serving
Presentation Ideas
Make your candy cane brownies look special. Cut them into neat squares or fun shapes using cookie cutters. Try stars or hearts for a festive look.
Use a clean knife. Wipe it between cuts for smooth edges. Add a dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle some melted chocolate on top. That makes them feel extra fancy.
Serve on a holiday plate or tray. Add a few whole candy canes on the side. It’s simple but pretty.
Pairing Suggestions
These brownies go well with warm drinks. Try them with hot cocoa, warm milk, or even peppermint tea. The flavors match nicely.
They also pair well with vanilla ice cream. The ice cream with warm brownies is a fun treat.
Storing and Preserving Freshness
Short-Term Storage
Keep leftover brownies in an airtight container. Store at room temperature. They stay fresh for 3 to 4 days.
Put a piece of parchment between layers so they don’t stick. This helps them keep their shape.
Freezing Tips
Want to keep them longer? Freeze them.
Wrap each brownie in plastic wrap. Then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months.
To eat, let them thaw at room temp. Or, warm in the microwave for a few seconds.
These tips help your brownies stay tasty and look great every time. Whether serving at a party or saving for later, it’s all about keeping things simple and sweet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some quick answers to common questions about candy cane brownies. These tips can save time and help you bake with confidence.
Common Questions About Candy Cane Brownies
Can I use store-bought brownie mix?
Yes, you can.
A boxed mix works fine. Just add peppermint extract and top with crushed candy canes. That gives you the same holiday flavor with less effort. It’s a smart shortcut when you’re short on time.
How do I keep the candy canes from melting too much?
Let the brownies cool a bit.
Wait about 10 minutes after baking. Then, sprinkle on the candy canes. If you add them too early, they’ll melt into the brownies and lose their crunch. A slight delay keeps the topping crisp and colorful.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, and it’s a great idea.
Bake them a day before you need them. Store in a sealed container. This helps the flavors blend, and they taste even better the next day. Plus, less stress on party day.
What can I use instead of candy canes?
Try other peppermint candies.
Peppermint bark or round peppermint discs also work. Just crush them into small bits. They’ll still give that cool, minty crunch.
These FAQs cover the basics. With these answers, you’ll handle the most common baking issues like a pro.
Bringing Holiday Cheer with Candy Cane Brownies
Candy cane brownies are more than just a dessert. They bring smiles, memories, and that special holiday feeling. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just for fun, this treat always shines.
They’re easy to make. You don’t need fancy skills. Just mix, bake, and sprinkle. The mix of rich chocolate and cool peppermint is a perfect match. It’s sweet, fresh, and full of cheer.
These brownies fit any moment—gift boxes, bake sales, or cozy nights at home. Want to impress guests? Serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream. Want to treat yourself? Keep a few slices in the fridge for a late-night snack.
The best part? You can make them your way. Add frosting. Go gluten-free. Or keep it classic. No matter how you bake them, they’ll be a hit.
So go ahead. Gather your ingredients. Crush those candy canes. And fill your kitchen with the smell of the holidays. Because some of the best memories start with a warm pan of brownies.
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Candy Cane Brownies: The Ultimate Holiday Treat
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
Description
Candy cane brownies are the perfect holiday dessert, blending rich chocolate brownies with the cool, crisp crunch of peppermint. These brownies feature a fudgy base, topped with crushed candy canes for a festive, minty kick. They are a hit at any holiday gathering, adding cheer and holiday spirit with every bite.
Ingredients
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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¼ teaspoon salt
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2 large eggs
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1 cup white sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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½ teaspoon peppermint extract
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4–5 candy canes (crushed)
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Optional: peppermint extract (for topping)
Instructions
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Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
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Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat together eggs, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir until fully combined.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into a greased 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan. Spread evenly and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check with a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
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Prepare the Topping: While brownies are baking, crush candy canes in a zip bag with a rolling pin.
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Add Topping: Once the brownies are done, let them cool for about 10 minutes. Then, sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top. Allow the brownies to cool fully before slicing.
Notes
For extra sweetness, you can frost the brownies with vanilla or chocolate buttercream.
For a fancier touch, drizzle melted chocolate on top.
To keep the candy canes from melting too much, wait about 10 minutes before adding them to the brownies.
These brownies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: holiday dessert, brownies, peppermint, candy canes, Christmas treats, festive baking, chocolate, holiday baking, winter desserts