As I stood in my cozy kitchen, the sweet aroma of melted chocolate filled the air. It reminded me of winter, holidays, and cherished moments spent with family. Every year, my loved ones and I would gather around the table, each person sharing their favorite childhood stories while indulging in delicious treats. Among those delights, Candy Cane Brownies always stood out. They brought a joyful spirit to our gatherings, blending the rich flavor of chocolate with a refreshing touch of peppermint.

The recipe for Candy Cane Brownies was born from my need to make our family traditions even sweeter. Each bite of these brownies captures the holiday essence, making it irresistible and perfect for any occasion. From birthdays to holiday parties, they become the star of the dessert table, bringing smiles and warmth to everyone who takes a bite. This recipe not only reminds me of those delightful moments but also offers a chance to create new memories with loved ones.

Why make this recipe

Candy Cane Brownies offer more than just a tasty treat. They create a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for any occasion. When you serve these brownies, the combination of rich chocolate and crisp peppermint fills the room with festive cheer. They become an instant hit, making them a must-try for your holiday or special celebration menu.

Additionally, the convenience of making Candy Cane Brownies cannot be overstated. With simple ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen, they come together quickly. You can whip up a batch in no time, making them perfect for unexpected guests or last-minute gatherings. Plus, the visual appeal of the bright red candy canes against the rich brownies adds a lovely touch to any dessert spread.

The flavor blends beautifully, balancing decadent chocolate with the refreshing hint of peppermint. This recipe allows you to connect with your loved ones while enjoying each delightful bite. Whether you serve them warm with ice cream or as a stand-alone treat, you will find that Candy Cane Brownies are versatile enough for any event. They carry a sense of nostalgia while also bringing a modern twist to classic holiday flavors.

How to make Candy Cane Brownies

Ingredients:

2 large Eggs
1/2 cup Cocoa powder
1/2 cup Flour
1 red Food coloring
1 cup Granulated sugar
1 tsp Peppermint extract
1 1/2 cups Powdered sugar
1/4 tsp Salt
4 oz Semi-sweet chocolate
1 tsp Vanilla extract
2 tsp Vegetable oil
1/2 cup Butter
1/3 cup unsalted Butter
7 tbsp Whipping cream
2 Candy canes

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a baking pan.
Melt the semi-sweet chocolate and unsalted butter together in a bowl over simmering water or in the microwave. Stir until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and peppermint extract. Mix in the melted chocolate mixture.
Add the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and red food coloring into the mixture and stir until just combined.
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
While the brownies are baking, prepare the frosting by whipping the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Once the brownies are out of the oven and cooled, spread the whipped cream frosting over the top.
Crush the candy canes and sprinkle them over the frosting.
Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your Candy Cane Brownies!

How to serve Candy Cane Brownies

Serving Candy Cane Brownies is an opportunity to create a beautiful presentation. You can cut them into neat squares for easy serving. Placing them on a festive platter makes an eye-catching display. For those colder days, serving them warm adds an extra cozy feeling, especially when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It creates a delightful contrast of warm and cold, which everyone loves.

Another great idea is to shift gears and place the squares on a tiered dessert stand. This will elevate their appearance, making them suitable for holiday parties. If you want, you can even add a drizzle of hot fudge or chocolate syrup on top for additional richness. It brings a beautiful, glossy finish that looks appealing.

Perfect occasions for serving Candy Cane Brownies include holiday gatherings. They pair well with hot cocoa or coffee, making them great for after-dinner dessert. Just imagine your friends and family enjoying warm brownies alongside a cup of steaming beverage while sharing stories. It sets a hospitable and inviting scene.

Moreover, you can serve these brownies as part of a dessert buffet, featuring other holiday treats. Think about displaying cookies, cakes, and candies alongside them. It creates a festive atmosphere, inviting everyone to indulge in sweet delights. Lastly, keep in mind that the crushed candy canes on top not only look attractive but also provide a fun crunch that complements the brownie’s rich texture beautifully.

How to store Candy Cane Brownies

To store your Candy Cane Brownies, let them cool completely first. Then, cut them into squares if you haven’t already. Place the brownies in an airtight container. You can use a glass or plastic container, but make sure it seals tightly. They will typically last 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator.

If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing. Wrap each brownie square in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just take them out and let them thaw at room temperature. The texture should remain nice and fudgy. You can even warm them briefly in the microwave before serving to bring back that fresh-baked feel.

Be sure to store them away from any strong-smelling foods, as brownies can absorb those odors. Keeping them in a cool, dark place will help maintain the flavor and texture. Just remember to check for any signs of spoilage before serving if they have been stored for a longer time.

Tips to Make Candy Cane Brownies

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Before mixing your eggs and butter, allow them to reach room temperature. This helps the ingredients blend more smoothly, resulting in a more even texture for your brownies.
Melt Chocolate Carefully: If using the microwave to melt your chocolate, do it in short bursts of 20 seconds and stir between each burst. This technique prevents overheating, which can lead to a dry, grainy texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix gently. Overmixing can cause your brownies to become tough instead of soft and fudgy. Just stir until you see no dry flour or cocoa powder.
Check Oven Temperature: Each oven runs differently. To prevent over-baking, use an oven thermometer to check the temperature. This small step can result in perfectly baked brownies, soft in the middle.
Experiment with Extracts: If you want a flavor twist, try mixing different extracts. A splash of almond or vanilla extract can complement the peppermint nicely, adding depth to your Candy Cane Brownies.
Let the Brownies Cool Completely: Always let your brownies cool in the pan before cutting. It makes slicing easier and gives them a chance to firm up, ensuring beautifully cut squares without crumbling apart.
Use High-Quality Chocolate: The type of chocolate you use can greatly affect flavor. Opt for high-quality semi-sweet chocolate for the best results, as it enhances the overall rich taste of the brownies.
Top with Homemade Whipped Cream: For an extra creamy touch, whip more cream if the whipped cream frosting runs out. The freshness enhances the minty flavor and adds a lovely texture contrast.

Variation of Candy Cane Brownies

Chocolate Mint Variation: For an extra chocolaty treat, increase the cocoa powder to 3/4 cup and use mint chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate. This twist enhances the mint flavor and creates a double chocolate experience.
Nutty Delight Version: Add 1/2 cup of crushed walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter. This adds a lovely crunch and earthy flavor, offering a nice texture contrast to the gooey chocolate and creamy frosting.
Low-Sugar Option: Substitute the granulated sugar with your favorite sugar alternative. You can also use unsweetened applesauce instead of some butter to create a lighter version without sacrificing too much flavor.
Fruity Candy Cane Brownies: Introduce a fruity twist by folding in some crushed raspberries or strawberries before pouring the brownie batter into the pan. The tartness of the fruit balances the sweetness of the brownie.
Caramel Swirl Brownies: Add some caramel sauce into the brownie batter before baking. Swirl it gently with a toothpick for a rich, gooey center that complements the mint perfectly.
Gluten-Free Candy Cane Brownies: Substitute traditional flour with a gluten-free blend. The brownies will retain a fudgy texture while allowing those with dietary restrictions to enjoy this delightful treat.

FAQs Of Candy Cane Brownies

Q: Can I freeze Candy Cane Brownies?
Yes, you can freeze Candy Cane Brownies. Simply wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will remain fresh for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before indulging.

Q: How do I prevent my brownies from being cakey?
If your brownies come out too cakey, it might be due to overmixing or using too much flour. Ensure you mix gently, and measure your ingredients accurately. Sifting cocoa powder and flour can also help provide a lighter texture.

Q: What can I substitute for eggs in this brownie recipe?
You have several options for egg substitutes, such as applesauce, mashed bananas, or flaxseed meal mixed with water. Each substitute may slightly change the texture but still results in a delicious treat.

Q: How do I store leftover brownies?
Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing them in an air-tight container. They can last in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. To enjoy them longer, freeze leftovers wrapped in plastic, and they can last up to 3 months.

Q: Can I use a different flavor for the frosting?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the vanilla extract in the whipped cream frosting for almond extract, chocolate extract, or even hazelnut for a different flavor profile. Get creative with your treats!

Q: What is the best way to cut brownies?
To cut brownies neatly, use a sharp knife. For best results, dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry before cutting. This technique keeps the knife clean and results in clean edges without crumbling.

Candy Cane Brownies

Author: imrane
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 16 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delightful brownies infused with rich chocolate and a refreshing hint of peppermint, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large Eggs
1/2 cup Cocoa powder
1/2 cup Flour
1 red Food coloring
1 cup Granulated sugar
1 tsp Peppermint extract
1 1/2 cups Powdered sugar
1/4 tsp Salt
4 oz Semi-sweet chocolate
1 tsp Vanilla extract
2 tsp Vegetable oil
1/2 cup Butter
1/3 cup unsalted Butter
7 tbsp Whipping cream
2 Candy canes

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a baking pan.
Melt the semi-sweet chocolate and unsalted butter together in a bowl over simmering water or in the microwave. Stir until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and peppermint extract. Mix in the melted chocolate mixture.
Add the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and red food coloring into the mixture and stir until just combined.
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
While the brownies are baking, prepare the frosting by whipping the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Once the brownies are out of the oven and cooled, spread the whipped cream frosting over the top.
Crush the candy canes and sprinkle them over the frosting.
Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your Candy Cane Brownies!

Notes

Serve warm with ice cream for added delight. For visual appeal, display on a festive platter or a tiered dessert stand.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 300
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: brownies, holiday dessert, peppermint, chocolate, festive treat