If you’re searching for the ultimate festive treat that combines rich chocolate with a refreshing peppermint twist, look no further. This Candy Cane Brownies Recipe is a delightful celebration of textures and flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings or simply brightening up your day. Imagine fudgy, chocolaty brownies topped with a creamy, minty frosting adorned with crushed candy canes, adding a perfect crunch and festive color. It’s a surefire way to bring joy to any dessert table and have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet crucial to achieving the perfect balance of moist, chocolatey brownies and that light, peppermint frosting that makes this Candy Cane Brownies Recipe truly unforgettable. Each item plays a specific role in the taste, texture, or appearance, so it’s worth gathering them carefully before you start baking.
- Butter (½ cup melted): Gives the brownies a rich, tender crumb and a luscious base.
- Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): Adds moisture and keeps the texture delightfully soft.
- Corn syrup or honey (1 tablespoon): Enhances sweetness and ensures the brownies stay chewy.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the batter and contributes to a crisp top.
- Cocoa powder (¾ cup, sifted): Provides deep chocolate flavor and that irresistible dark color.
- Eggs (2 large): Bind the ingredients while adding richness and structure.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Boosts flavor complexity with warmth and sweetness.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances flavors and enhances the chocolate notes.
- All-purpose flour (½ cup): Gives the brownies just enough body for that fudgy texture.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened): Essential for the creamy, smooth peppermint frosting.
- Powdered sugar (2 to 2.5 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
- Peppermint extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses the frosting with a refreshing minty bite.
- Whipping cream (1 to 2 tablespoons): Makes the frosting light and fluffy without compromising richness.
- Red food coloring: Brings that iconic holiday hue to the frosting for festive cheer.
- Candy canes (2 to 3, crushed): Offer delightful crunch and eye-catching decoration atop the frosting.
How to Make Candy Cane Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Lightly grease the lining so the brownies come out effortlessly after baking. This simple prep ensures easy removal and clean edges, setting you up for beautiful brownie squares.
Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, vegetable oil, corn syrup, sugar, and sifted cocoa powder. Stir until smooth and fully blended. Then whisk in the eggs one at a time, along with the vanilla extract, to create a glossy, rich mixture that promises moist, decadent brownies.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients and Bake
Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and salt, taking care not to overmix—you want just enough to bring everything together. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. A perfectly baked batch yields a fudgy texture that’s irresistibly soft and chewy. Allow the brownies to cool completely before moving on to frosting.
Step 4: Whip Up the Peppermint Frosting
Using a mixer, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar in half-cup increments, ensuring it’s fully incorporated each time for a silky finish. Next, blend in the peppermint extract and a few drops of red food coloring until the frosting turns a festive pinkish-red shade. Slowly add whipping cream as needed to achieve a fluffy but spreadable consistency that will top your brownies perfectly.
Step 5: Frost and Decorate
Spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the cooled brownies with a spatula or butter knife. Immediately sprinkle generously with crushed candy canes to add texture, a burst of peppermint flavor, and that unmistakable holiday sparkle that everyone loves.
How to Serve Candy Cane Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up the festive appeal, consider dusting a light sprinkle of powdered sugar over the frosted brownies or adding delicate peppermint candies alongside the crushed ones. A drizzle of melted white chocolate over the top can also add elegance and extra sweetness.
Side Dishes
Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream for an indulgent treat, or serve alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa or spiced coffee to create a cozy holiday experience that’s simply unforgettable.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the brownies into small bite-sized squares and arrange them on a festive plate or tiered dessert stand. Alternatively, place individual squares in mini cupcake liners and tie a ribbon around each for a charming party favor or holiday gift idea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once frosted, cover the Candy Cane Brownies Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. Store them at room temperature for up to three days to keep the frosting soft. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is recommended to prevent melting.
Freezing
You can freeze the unfrosted brownies wrapped tightly in plastic and foil for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw completely and frost fresh, or freeze post-frosting by cutting into squares and separating with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Reheating
Since these brownies are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you prefer them warm, briefly microwave a single square for 10 to 15 seconds, avoiding the frosting melting too much.
FAQs
Can I substitute the corn syrup with another sweetener?
Yes! Honey works beautifully as a substitute in this Candy Cane Brownies Recipe and will maintain that lovely chewy texture while adding a subtle floral sweetness.
What if I don’t have peppermint extract?
You can use vanilla extract alone for a classic chocolate brownie with frosting, but the peppermint extract is what gives this recipe its signature holiday flair, so try to pick it up if you can.
How do I crush the candy canes properly?
Place the candy canes in a sealed plastic bag and use a rolling pin or the back of a heavy pan to gently crush them into small pieces without turning them into powder.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free Candy Cane Brownies.
Is it possible to make these brownies vegan?
With some ingredient tweaks like using vegan butter, a flax egg substitute, and a plant-based cream for frosting, you can adapt this Candy Cane Brownies Recipe to be vegan, though expect slight differences in texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something magical about the perfect union of chocolate and peppermint, and this Candy Cane Brownies Recipe hits every mark with a moist brownie base, fluffy peppermint frosting, and festive crushed candy canes. Whether you’re making these for holiday cheer or a fun family baking project, these brownies are bound to become a treasured favorite. Give this recipe a try — it’s a sweet celebration you won’t regret sharing!
Print
Candy Cane Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these festive Candy Cane Brownies, featuring rich, fudgy chocolate brownies topped with a creamy peppermint frosting and sprinkled with crushed candy canes for a perfect holiday treat. This easy-to-make recipe combines classic brownie flavors with a refreshing peppermint twist, ideal for celebrating the season or any special occasion.
Ingredients
For the 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
For the 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
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Mix Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, vegetable oil, corn syrup, granulated sugar, and sifted cocoa powder. Whisk in the eggs one at a time and stir in the vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and salt until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake Brownies: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
- Make Peppermint Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, about 1/2 cup at a time, mixing on medium speed until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Flavor and Color Frosting: Beat in the peppermint extract and a few drops of red food coloring until the frosting achieves a uniform pink or light red hue. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of whipping cream gradually, beating until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
- Frost and Decorate: Spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the completely cooled brownies. Immediately sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top to add a festive crunch and peppermint flavor.
- Slice and Serve: Once decorated, slice the brownies into 16 squares. Serve and enjoy your holiday-inspired Candy Cane Brownies!
Notes
- Use parchment paper for easy removal of brownies from the pan.
- Adjust the amount of peppermint extract based on your flavor preference.
- For a more intense peppermint flavor, add additional crushed candy canes on top.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Bring brownies to room temperature before serving if refrigerated for best flavor.
