Candy Cane Brownies

If you’re looking for a festive treat that will make your holidays even more special, these Candy Cane Brownies are just what you need! Combining rich, fudgy brownies with a delightful peppermint filling and a glossy chocolate ganache, this recipe captures the essence of Christmas in every bite. These brownies are not only delicious but also fun to make with family or friends. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet on a cozy evening, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your table.

What sets these Candy Cane Brownies apart is their delightful layers. The brownie base is so chewy and chocolatey that it’s hard to resist. Topped with a creamy peppermint layer and finished off with crushed candy canes for that festive crunch, these brownies are an absolute treat for all ages!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip these up in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone will love the combination of chocolate and peppermint—perfect for sharing!
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake these brownies ahead of time, and they’ll keep well for days—if they last that long!
• Festive flavor: The holiday spirit shines through in every bite, making them ideal for Christmas gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll find that this recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you may already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create those delicious Candy Cane Brownies:

For the Brownie Base

• 1/2 cup butter (112 grams) (melted)
• 2 teaspoons vegetable oil (10 ml)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder (50 grams) (sifted)
• 1/2 cup flour (63 grams)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Peppermint Layer

• 1/3 cup unsalted butter (75 grams) (softened, but not starting to melt)
• 1 1/2 – 2 cups powdered sugar (165 – 220 grams)
• 1 – 1 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• red food coloring (optional)

For the Ganache Topping

• 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (56 grams) (or 50-70% dark chocolate)
• 6 tablespoons whipping cream (90 ml) (or heavy cream, about 33-35% MF)

For Decoration

• 2-3 candy canes (crushed)

Variations

One of the best things about these Candy Cane Brownies is their flexibility! You can easily customize them to fit your preferences or use whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add nuts: Sprinkle in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for extra crunch and texture.
• Use different extracts: Swap out peppermint extract for almond or vanilla extract in the filling for a unique twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these brownies without gluten.
• Change up the toppings: Try adding crushed Oreo cookies or sprinkles alongside the candy canes for added flair!

How to Make Candy Cane Brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter and vegetable oil with granulated sugar. Mixing these together creates a moist base full of sweetness. Add in the eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined. Next, sift in cocoa powder, flour, and salt—this helps keep the brownies light and fluffy!

Step 2: Bake the Brownies

Pour your brownie batter into a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 24 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be set but still soft! Once baked, let them cool completely before adding the peppermint layer.

Step 3: Make the Peppermint Filling

In another mixing bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until smooth. Stir in peppermint extract and food coloring if desired. This filling adds that refreshing mint flavor we all love!

Step 4: Assemble Your Brownies

Spread the peppermint filling over your cooled brownie base evenly. It’s best to do this gently so that you don’t disturb your brownie layer underneath. Place it back in the fridge while you prepare the ganache.

Step 5: Prepare Chocolate Ganache

In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, heat whipping cream until just simmering. Pour it over chopped chocolate and let it sit for a minute before stirring until smooth and shiny. This ganache will provide that decadent finish!

Step 6: Top with Ganache & Crushed Candy Canes

Carefully pour the ganache over your peppermint layer and spread it evenly. Finally, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top while it’s still warm so they stick nicely! Let everything set before slicing into squares.

Enjoy these delightful Candy Cane Brownies as part of your holiday celebrations—they’re sure to become a new favorite tradition!

Pro Tips for Making Candy Cane Brownies

These Candy Cane Brownies are sure to impress, and with a few handy tips, you can make them even more delicious!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ingredients like eggs and butter mix better when they’re at room temperature, leading to a smoother batter and a more uniform texture in your brownies.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps keep your brownies fudgy instead of cakey. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, making them rise more than desired.
• Chill the peppermint filling: After preparing the peppermint layer, chilling it slightly before spreading it on the brownie base will help it to set properly, making assembly easier and preventing it from mixing into the brownie layer.
• Let them cool completely before slicing: Allowing your brownies to cool fully will give them time to set up nicely. Warm brownies can be messy when cutting, while cooled brownies yield perfect squares.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Adding different types of crushed candies or sprinkles can personalize your brownies and make them even more festive.

How to Serve Candy Cane Brownies

Presenting these Candy Cane Brownies beautifully can turn a simple dessert into a show-stopping treat for any holiday gathering!

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: This dairy-free alternative provides a light and fluffy topping that complements the richness of the brownies beautifully.
• Extra Crushed Candy Canes: Sprinkling some additional crushed candy canes on top before serving adds even more festive flair and crunch.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Almond Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy delight balances the richness of the brownies and adds a delightful contrast in temperature.
• Hot Chocolate: Serve these brownies alongside a steaming cup of hot chocolate for that quintessential winter experience—it’s cozy and comforting!
• Fresh Berries: The tartness of fresh raspberries or strawberries cuts through the sweetness of the brownies, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Peppermint Tea: A soothing cup of peppermint tea makes for a lovely pairing, enhancing the minty flavor while aiding digestion after indulging in sweets.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll have everyone raving about your Candy Cane Brownies! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Candy Cane Brownies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a festive treat throughout the season without the last-minute rush. They can be made ahead of time and stored easily for a cozy dessert any day!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the brownies to cool completely at room temperature.
• Cut into squares, if desired, before storing to make serving easier.
• Place in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped brownies in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for reference.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw brownies overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm individual pieces in the microwave on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Candy Cane Brownies that might help you out!

Can I use a different type of extract instead of peppermint?

Absolutely! If peppermint isn’t your favorite, feel free to experiment with other extracts like vanilla or almond. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile of your Candy Cane Brownies.

How do I make my Candy Cane Brownies more festive?

You can add more crushed candy canes on top after drizzling with ganache or include colorful sprinkles! These small additions can enhance both appearance and taste.

How long do Candy Cane Brownies last?

When stored correctly, Candy Cane Brownies can last up to a week in the refrigerator and even longer if frozen. Just make sure they are sealed well!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Candy Cane Brownies! They’re not just a treat; they’re a way to celebrate the season with loved ones. Enjoy every fudgy bite and sprinkle of peppermint goodness. Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with sweetness!