Sometimes, a dessert comes along that is so delicious, it makes you question your entire existence. Candy Cane Brownies are just that treat. Imagine biting into a fudgy brownie, rich and decadent, only to be pleasantly surprised by a burst of peppermint flavor from crushed candy canes. delicious cupcake recipe The sweet, minty aroma dances in the air as you bake these beauties, instantly transporting you to a cozy winter wonderland.
These brownies are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in with your favorite movie. They evoke memories of festive cheer and warm family moments around the fireplace. You can almost hear the laughter and feel the warmth of good company while indulging in these irresistible treats. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for this experience!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Candy Cane Brownies are super easy to whip up, making them a perfect last-minute treat for any occasion.
- Their rich chocolate flavor combined with refreshing peppermint creates a delightful taste explosion.
- The vibrant red and white topping makes them visually stunning on any dessert table.
- These brownies are versatile enough to enjoy all winter long or even gift to friends!
Ingredients for Candy Cane Brownies
For more inspiration, check out this Martha Washington Candy Recipe recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality unsalted butter for rich flavor; it helps create that perfect brownie texture.
- Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness and contributes to the chewy texture; don’t skimp on it!
- Cocoa Powder: Dutch-processed cocoa powder gives the brownies a deep chocolate flavor; choose unsweetened for best results.
- Eggs: Large eggs work best; they provide moisture and help bind all ingredients together.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully; it’s worth using real vanilla.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is essential for structure; too much can make the brownies dry, so measure carefully.
- Candy Canes: Crush these up for a festive touch; their minty goodness is what makes these brownies special!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Candy Cane Brownies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease it lightly with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter completely without letting it brown. Once melted, remove it from heat and stir in granulated sugar until fully combined.
Step 3: Mix in Cocoa and Eggs
Add cocoa powder into the butter-sugar mix followed by eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition. Finally, mix in vanilla extract and create a velvety batter.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and crushed candy canes. Gradually fold this mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined – don’t overmix!
Step 5: Bake
Pour your brownie batter into the prepared dish and spread evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the brownies to cool before cutting them into squares. Top each square with additional crushed candy canes for that extra festive flair!
Transfer to plates and serve with hot cocoa or coffee for an unforgettable treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!
You Must Know
- Candy Cane Brownies are not just a dessert; they’re a whimsical holiday treat that brings joy and cheer.
- These brownies combine rich chocolate with minty candy canes, creating a festive experience that’s perfect for any holiday gathering or cozy night in.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and preparing your brownie batter. Mix the ingredients in one bowl, then fold in crushed candy canes at the end for a delightful crunch. Bake until set for perfect, fudgy results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the candy canes for peppermint chips or even white chocolate chunks! You can also drizzle some extra melted chocolate on top for an added layer of indulgence.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Candy Cane Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to enjoy them warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for richer flavor and texture.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep those brownies fudgy and moist.
- Let brownies cool completely before cutting to achieve clean edges.
I once made these Candy Cane Brownies for a holiday party, and let’s just say they disappeared faster than Santa on Christmas Eve! Everyone raved about them, turning me into the unofficial holiday baking guru of my friend group.
FAQs:
What are Candy Cane Brownies?
Candy Cane Brownies are a festive dessert that combines rich chocolate brownies with crushed candy canes. These brownies typically feature a fudgy texture and a minty flavor, making them ideal for the holiday season. The addition of the candy canes gives them a delightful crunch and a beautiful visual contrast, perfect holiday treat that embodies the spirit of Christmas.
How do I store leftover Candy Cane Brownies?
To keep your Candy Cane Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can stay good for up to two weeks. For even longer storage, you can freeze the brownies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature.
Can I use different types of candy canes for my brownies?
Absolutely! While traditional peppermint candy canes work perfectly for Candy Cane Brownies, you can experiment with different flavors such as chocolate or even fruit-flavored candy canes. Each type will add its own unique twist to the brownies, allowing you to customize the flavor profile according to your preferences. Just ensure the crushed candies are finely chopped so they blend well into the brownie mix. For more inspiration, check out this Peppermint Dark Chocolate Truffles recipe.
Are there any variations for making Candy Cane Brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make gluten-free Candy Cane Brownies by substituting regular flour with a gluten-free blend. Many brands offer all-purpose gluten-free flour that works well in baking without compromising texture or flavor. Additionally, make sure your candy canes are gluten-free by checking the label. This way, everyone in your family or friend group can enjoy these festive treats without worry.
Conclusion for Candy Cane Brownies:
In summary, Candy Cane Brownies combine rich chocolate goodness with festive minty flavors from crushed candy canes. They are easy to make and perfect for sharing during the holiday season. Storing leftovers is simple; just keep them in an airtight container or freeze them for later enjoyment. flavorful breakfast option With various customization options available, including gluten-free alternatives and different types of candy canes, these brownies are sure to delight everyone at your next gathering! ultimate pancake recipe.
Candy Cane Brownies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 12 brownies 1x
Description
Candy Cane Brownies are the ultimate festive treat, marrying rich chocolate with a refreshing burst of peppermint. These fudgy delights, topped with vibrant crushed candy canes, are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy movie nights. Easy to whip up and visually stunning, they’re sure to impress your family and friends while evoking the warmth of the season. Indulge in this whimsical dessert that is bound to become a holiday favorite!
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in sugar until combined.
- Mix cocoa powder into the butter-sugar mixture, then add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour and crushed candy canes. Fold this into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Cool before cutting into squares; top with more crushed candy canes if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
