Candy Cane Brownies Recipe
If you’re dreaming of the perfect festive treat that blends rich chocolate goodness with refreshing peppermint crunch, you absolutely must try this Candy Cane Brownies Recipe. These brownies bring together a fudgy cocoa base with a creamy peppermint frosting, topped off with crushed candy canes that add both color and that unmistakable holiday spirit. It’s a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, perfect for sharing at any seasonal gathering or cozy night in. Once you try this Candy Cane Brownies Recipe, it’s sure to become your go-to festive favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Candy Cane Brownies Recipe is a breeze because everything is straightforward yet essential, each playing a key role to deliver fantastic flavor, texture, and that iconic red and white holiday vibe.
- 1/2 cup butter, melted: Gives the brownies a moist, rich texture and buttery flavor.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Adds extra moisture to keep the brownies soft and chewy.
- 1 tablespoon corn syrup (or honey): Helps enhance the fudginess and shine of the brownies.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter perfectly while balancing the cocoa’s bitterness.
- 3/4 cup cocoa powder, sifted: Provides deep chocolate flavor and that luscious dark color.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Intensifies the overall flavor with warm, comforting notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors, making the chocolate pop.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Gives structure without making the brownies cakey.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: The base of the creamy peppermint frosting.
- 2 to 2.5 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: Brings that classic cool peppermint punch.
- 1-2 tablespoons whipping cream: Adjusts frosting texture for smooth and fluffy spreadability.
- Red food coloring: Gives the frosting its festive, eye-catching look.
- 2-3 candy canes, crushed: Adds crunch and finishing flair on top, sealing the holiday mood.
How to Make Candy Cane Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Brownies
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, then lightly grease it to ensure easy removal later. This simple prep step will save you stress when it’s time to take your brownies out.
Step 2: Mix the Chocolate Batter
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, vegetable oil, corn syrup, sugar, and sifted cocoa powder. Stir everything thoroughly until smooth and glossy. This blend is your brownie’s flavor core, so give it a good mix to dissolve any lumps and create that luscious chocolate base.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Whisk in the eggs one at a time with the vanilla extract, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. This will create a smooth, velvety batter that promises fudgy brownies once baked.
Step 4: Fold in Dry Ingredients
Gently mix in the flour and salt. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; just fold until everything is combined. Overworking the batter can make brownies tough, and we want these tender and chewy.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs—perfect for that ideal fudgy texture. Allow the brownies to cool completely before frosting; this step is crucial so your frosting won’t melt or slide off.
Step 6: Make the Peppermint Frosting
In a large bowl, beat softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, about half a cup at a time, beating well after each addition to avoid lumps. Then mix in the peppermint extract and a few drops of red food coloring to get that festive swirl. Add whipping cream slowly until you achieve a fluffy, spreadable consistency.
Step 7: Assemble Your Candy Cane Brownies Recipe
Spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the cooled brownies with a spatula. Immediately sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the top to create a festive crunch and that signature holiday look. Once the frosting sets a bit, slice into squares, and get ready to enjoy your masterpiece!
How to Serve Candy Cane Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the crushed candy canes already sprinkled on top, you can add a few whole mini candy canes on the plate for extra charm, or even a dusting of powdered sugar to mimic snow. Fresh mint leaves also add a lovely pop of green that pairs perfectly with this peppermint chocolate treat.
Side Dishes
These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. A hot cup of coffee, dark hot chocolate, or even a peppermint mocha can complement and enhance the dessert’s flavors beautifully during a cozy winter evening.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday parties, try cutting the brownies into festive shapes using cookie cutters—stars, stockings, or Christmas trees—before frosting and decorating. You could also layer half the brownies in a trifle dish with whipped cream and crushed candy canes for a show-stopping holiday dessert display that’s as pretty as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once frosted, keep your Candy Cane Brownies Recipe leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and maintains the frosting’s freshness. If your kitchen is warm, storing in the refrigerator is fine—just bring them back to room temp before serving to enjoy the best texture.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted brownies in a single layer wrapped tightly with plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. After thawing, whip up the peppermint frosting fresh or freeze the frosting separately in small portions. Assemble just before serving to keep that creamy peppermint flavor bright and fresh.
Reheating
If you prefer your brownies slightly warm, gently reheat a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this might melt the frosting. Warming them just a little gives a soft texture and enhances the peppermint aroma.
FAQs
Can I use peppermint oil instead of peppermint extract in Candy Cane Brownies Recipe?
Peppermint oil is much more concentrated than extract, so you’ll want to use it very sparingly—just a drop or two—because it can quickly overpower the flavors. Peppermint extract is usually preferred for its balanced flavor and ease of use.
What if I don’t have crushed candy canes for topping?
If crushed candy canes aren’t available, crushed peppermint candies or even candy cane sprinkles work well as a substitute. Alternatively, finely chopped white chocolate with a drop of peppermint extract can mimic the cool swirl and texture.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just check that your cocoa powder and other ingredients are gluten-free certified to keep these festive brownies safe for gluten sensitivities.
How do I achieve fudgy brownies instead of cakey ones?
The key is not overmixing the batter and baking just until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. The combination of butter and oil in the recipe also helps deliver that rich, chewy fudginess that everyone loves.
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
You sure can! The peppermint frosting keeps well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Before spreading, bring it to room temperature and give it a quick whip to restore fluffiness.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the Candy Cane Brownies Recipe that captures the festive spirit while satisfying chocolate cravings beautifully. The combination of fudgy cocoa and peppermint frosting with that colorful candy cane crunch is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to brighten any holiday moment. Give it a try and watch your kitchen fill with wonderful aromas and joyful smiles!
Print
Candy Cane Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
These festive Candy Cane Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with a creamy peppermint frosting and a crunchy candy cane topping, perfect for holiday celebrations. The brownies are moist and chocolatey, topped with a vibrant peppermint buttercream that’s both colorful and flavorful, creating a delightful seasonal treat.
Ingredients
Brownies
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon corn syrup (or honey)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup cocoa powder, sifted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Peppermint Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 to 2.5 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1–2 tablespoons whipping cream
- Red food coloring (a few drops)
- 2–3 candy canes, crushed
Instructions
- Make the Brownies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly grease it to ensure easy removal.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together the melted butter, vegetable oil, corn syrup (or honey), granulated sugar, and sifted cocoa powder until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Whisk in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and glossy.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and salt until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain a tender crumb.
- Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare the Peppermint Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy and smooth.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, about 1/2 cup at a time, beating on medium speed until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Flavor and Color the Frosting: Beat in the peppermint extract and add a few drops of red food coloring to achieve a festive pink hue, mixing until evenly colored.
- Adjust Consistency: Gradually add whipping cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating until the frosting becomes light, fluffy, and spreadable.
- Assemble: Spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the completely cooled brownies using a spatula or knife.
- Add Candy Cane Topping: Sprinkle the crushed candy canes generously over the frosted brownies to add a festive crunch and minty flavor.
- Serve: Slice the brownies into 16 equal squares and serve as a perfect holiday dessert or sweet treat.
Notes
- Ensure brownies are fully cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- For a stronger peppermint flavor, adjust peppermint extract to taste.
- The frosting color can be customized or omitted if preferred.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Use parchment paper lining to easily lift the brownies out for uniform slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
