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Candy Cane Brownies

Candy Cane Brownies

Candy Cane Brownies are a festive holiday treat combining rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with crunchy peppermint candy cane pieces for a refreshing twist. These easy-to-make brownies deliver a perfect balance of fudgy texture and peppermint crunch, ideal for gifting, parties, or satisfying your sweet cravings year-round.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend for gluten-free option)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter or oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup crushed candy canes
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chocolate chunks

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a baking pan with parchment paper. Gather all ingredients for a smooth baking process.
  2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, melt the butter and mix it with sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
  3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, and a pinch of salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to keep the batter tender.
  4. Add the Candy Canes and Optional Extras: Gently fold in the crushed candy canes and chocolate chips or nuts if using, ensuring even distribution for peppermint crunch.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Test doneness with a toothpick that should come out with a few moist crumbs to maintain fudginess.
  6. Cool and Serve: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan to set properly, then slice for clean cuts revealing speckled candy cane pieces.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smoother batter mixing.
  • Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense, tough brownies; mix until just combined.
  • Crush candy canes finely for even peppermint flavor without hard bites.
  • Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal and to prevent sticking.
  • Monitor baking time closely to avoid drying out the brownies.

Nutrition

Keywords: Candy Cane Brownies, Peppermint Brownies, Holiday Brownies, Fudgy Brownies, Christmas Dessert, Gluten-Free Brownies, Vegan Brownies (variation), Chocolate Peppermint Treat