When the holiday season rolls in, kitchens everywhere fill with the comforting aroma of chocolate, peppermint, and festive spices. If you’re looking for a dessert that combines rich fudgy chocolate with the refreshing crunch of peppermint, look no further than Candy Cane Brownies. These decadent treats are the ultimate Christmas dessert — chewy, chocolatey, and topped with a delightful candy cane crunch.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the full recipe for Candy Cane Brownies, along with baking tips, storage ideas, serving suggestions, and even fun variations. By the end, you’ll be ready to bake a pan that will wow your family and friends all holiday season.
Ingredients for Candy Cane Brownies
To make these festive brownies, you’ll need a mix of classic brownie staples plus peppermint candy canes for that holiday magic.
For the Brownie Base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for extra richness)
the Peppermint Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed candy canes
- 1 cup white chocolate chips or melting wafers (for drizzle)
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional, for stronger flavor)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Rubber spatula
- Small microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
- Rolling pin or food processor (to crush candy canes)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to bake perfect Candy Cane Brownies every time.
1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment with butter or non-stick spray.
2: Make the Brownie Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Gently stir in the chocolate chips if using.
3: Bake the Brownies
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 28–32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. Do not overbake — fudgy brownies are the goal!
4: Prepare the Candy Cane Topping
While the brownies bake, crush your candy canes. Place them in a zip-top bag and gently crush with a rolling pin or pulse in a food processor. Set aside.
5: Add the Festive Touch
Once brownies are baked, let them cool for at least 20 minutes. Melt the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 20-second intervals and stirring until smooth. Stir in peppermint extract if desired.
Drizzle the melted white chocolate evenly over the brownies, then sprinkle the crushed candy canes generously on top. Press lightly so they stick.
6: Slice and Serve
Allow the chocolate drizzle to set before slicing into squares or festive shapes using cookie cutters. Serve and enjoy your Candy Cane Brownies with a cup of hot cocoa or peppermint mocha!
Helpful Baking Tips for Candy Cane Brownies
- Don’t overmix the batter – Stir just until ingredients are combined to keep brownies fudgy.
- Line the pan with parchment – This makes removing and cutting brownies much easier.
- Crush candy canes just right – Aim for small chunks, not powder. This adds texture and crunch.
- Double the recipe for a crowd – Candy Cane Brownies are perfect for parties and bake sales.
- Add layers – Try a cream cheese swirl or peppermint buttercream frosting under the candy cane topping for extra indulgence.
Fun Variations to Try
- Gluten-Free Candy Cane Brownies – Use a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan Candy Cane Brownies – Swap eggs with flax eggs and butter with coconut oil.
- Chocolate Peppermint Layer Bars – Add a layer of chocolate ganache before sprinkling candy canes.
- Candy Cane Blondies – Replace cocoa with extra flour for a peppermint blondie twist.
- Brownie Trifles – Layer crumbled brownies, whipped cream, and candy canes in jars.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Freeze brownies (without topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw, drizzle chocolate, and add candy canes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Candy Cane Brownies with:
- Hot cocoa topped with whipped cream and peppermint sprinkles
- A glass of cold milk
- Peppermint lattes or cappuccinos
- A holiday dessert platter with cookies, fudge, and bark
Approximate Nutritional Value (per serving, 1 brownie out of 16)
- Calories: 285
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Sugars: 29 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Fiber: 2 g
(Values may vary depending on toppings and portion size.)
Why These Candy Cane Brownies Are the Best
- Holiday-perfect – Peppermint and chocolate are the ultimate Christmas combo.
- Versatile – Great for dessert tables, gift boxes, or cookie swaps.
- Easy to make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Crowd-pleaser – Loved by kids and adults alike.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a festive dessert that blends classic chocolate indulgence with a peppermint twist, these Candy Cane Brownies are a must-bake. They’re chewy, rich, and topped with crunchy candy canes that sparkle with holiday cheer.
