Best Candy Cane Brownies Recipe – Rich, Fudgy, and Minty!

Candy Cane Brownies: The Ultimate Holiday Dessert Recipe 

A batch of warm, fudgy Candy Cane Brownies is the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of the holidays. Imagine the rich, melt-in-your-mouth decadence of chocolate brownies paired with the festive, refreshing crunch of peppermint candy canes.

Yes, it’s as magical as it sounds! Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, looking for the perfect edible gift, or simply craving a winter treat, these brownies are about to become a seasonal favorite in your kitchen. 

Below, we’ll explore the tradition of candy canes, why brownies are a dessert superstar, and—most importantly—how you can create these show-stopping holiday treats at home.  

The Sweet Tradition of Candy Canes 

The candy cane is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a symbol of joy, celebration, and nostalgia. Dating back to the 17th century, candy canes began as plain white sugar treats given to children during Christmas church services.

Over time, red stripes were added, and their signature peppermint flavor became synonymous with the holidays. Today, candy canes symbolize the cheerful spirit of the season, making them the perfect addition to any holiday dessert. 

The Versatility of Brownies 

Ah, brownies. They’re an icon in the world of desserts—equally at home as an everyday indulgence or the life of the party at a festive gathering. Brownies adapt beautifully to any flavor pairing, from nuts to caramel to, of course, peppermint. Their soft, chewy texture works as the perfect canvas for endless creativity, which is why they’re ideal for holiday-inspired creations like Candy Cane Brownies. 

Why Desserts Are the Heart of the Holidays 

Every dessert feels extra special during the holiday season. They’re more than just food—they’re memories in the making. Whether we’re baking cookies for Santa, sharing a cake at holiday feasts, or enjoying a brownie by the fire, desserts bring us together. And nothing quite says “holiday magic” like a dessert that combines chocolatey comfort with a peppermint twist. 

Now, ready to bake your own? 

How to Make Candy Cane Brownies at Home 

Here’s how you can create holiday cheer right in your kitchen with these irresistible Candy Cane Brownies. 

Ingredients 

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up a festive batch (feel free to double it if you’re hosting a crowd): 

• For the brownies:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter 
• 1 cup granulated sugar 
• 3/4 cup brown sugar 
• 4 large eggs 
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 
• 1 cup all-purpose flour 
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 
• For the topping:
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (approx. 4-5 large candy canes) 
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 

Step-by-Step Instructions 

1. Melt and Mix 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and whisk in the granulated and brown sugars until smooth. 

2. Perfect the Batter 

Whisk in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Gradually sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt, mixing until just combined—don’t overmix! You want that chewy brownie texture. 

3. Bake to Perfection 

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs (no wet batter). 

4. Add the Candy Cane Crunch 

While the brownies are cooling, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to avoid burning. Once melted, spread the chocolate layer evenly over the brownies and quickly sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top. 

5. Set, Cut, and Serve 

Allow the brownies to cool completely so the chocolate topping can set. Once ready, slice them into squares and prepare for a peppermint chocolate explosion! 

Pro Tip: For extra fudgy brownies, refrigerate them for an hour before cutting. 

Tips for Perfect Results 

• Crush your candy canes without pulverizing them—small chunks add texture and visual appeal. 
• Use high-quality cocoa powder for a deeper, richer chocolate flavor. 
• Double the peppermint impact by adding a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter!

Read More: Eggnog Cheesecake Recipe 

Variations to Try 

Want to mix things up? These creative ideas will take your Candy Cane Brownies to the next level: 

Gluten-Free and Vegan Options 

• Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. 
• For a vegan version, swap butter with coconut oil or a vegan alternative and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons of water = 1 egg). 

Other Holiday Add-Ins 

• Chocolate Peppermint Swirl: Add a layer of peppermint cream cheese swirl before baking. 
• White Chocolate Magic: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the crushed candy canes. 
• Spiced Brownies: Incorporate warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a festive twist. 

How to Serve Candy Cane Brownies 

These brownies are as versatile for serving as they are fun to make. 

• Coffee Pairing: Serve them with a steaming cup of peppermint mocha for a match made in holiday heaven. 
• Dessert Spread: Include them in a dessert platter alongside cookies and truffles. 
• Ice Cream Sundae: Warm a brownie and top with vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce for a decadent treat. 

Make Them the Perfect Holiday Gift 

Candy Cane Brownies also make incredible edible gifts! Wrap them individually in festive cellophane bags or arrange them in a holiday tin with a ribbon. Add a handwritten note for a thoughtful, homemade touch that your loved ones will adore. 

Join the Holiday Fun! 

We’d love to see your Candy Cane Brownie creations! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag us. Nothing makes us happier than being part of your holiday memories. 

Happy baking and happy holidays! 

Mary

Hello, my name is Mary. I’m a passionate food and drink enthusiast, sharing flavorful recipes, creative drinks, and culinary inspiration from around the world. With a love for exploring new tastes and traditions, I bring a mix of easy-to-follow guides and expert tips to make every meal an adventure. Follow along for delicious discoveries and a toast to positive living!