Description
Fudgy, chocolatey, and bursting with peppermint flavor, these Candy Cane Brownies are the perfect holiday treat. With a rich brownie base and a festive crunch of crushed candy canes, they strike the ideal balance between decadent and refreshing. Whether you’re baking for a Christmas party, gifting a sweet box of goodies, or just treating yourself, these brownies are sure to become a seasonal favorite.
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Ingredients
½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp baking powder
½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
½ cup crushed candy canes (plus extra for topping)
Optional Toppings:
½ cup white chocolate chips (melted for drizzle)
1 tsp peppermint extract (for more peppermint flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
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Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease with non-stick spray
Step 2: Melt Butter and Mix Base
3. In a medium saucepan (or microwave-safe bowl), melt the butter over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave
4. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract
5. Whisk until smooth and slightly glossy
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
6. Stir in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder
7. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix to keep the brownies tender
Step 4: Add Chocolate and Peppermint
8. Fold in semisweet chocolate chips and crushed candy canes
9. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula
Step 5: Bake
10. Bake for 22–28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs
11. Remove from oven and cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes
Step 6: Decorate and Serve
12. Optional: Drizzle melted white chocolate on top and sprinkle with extra crushed candy canes
13. Let the topping set before slicing into squares
14. Serve and enjoy, or pack in gift boxes for festive sharing
Notes
These Candy Cane Brownies are everything a holiday treat should be—chewy, chocolaty, and bursting with minty joy. Whether you serve them at a holiday party, include them in gift tins, or whip up a batch just because, they’ll bring smiles and cheer to every bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American