Peppermint Candy Cane Brownies: A Holiday Dessert Delight

Peppermint candy cane brownies are the ultimate holiday treat.

They combine rich, fudgy chocolate with a refreshing burst of peppermint, creating a dessert that feels like a festive celebration in every bite.

Loved for their festive charm and vibrant flavors, these brownies are a staple for holiday gatherings and gift exchanges.

Perfectly topped with crushed candy canes, they’re as delightful to look at as they are to eat.

Here’s how to easily make them at home!

How to Make Peppermint Candy Cane Brownies: At A Glance

1. Mix brownie batter with peppermint and chocolate chips.
2. Bake at 350°F for 20-22 minutes in an 8×8″ pan.
3. Prepare peppermint buttercream frosting and spread over cooled brownies.
4. Garnish with crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
5. Chill before slicing for clean, neat squares.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy holiday schedules

This recipe keeps things simple by using a boxed brownie mix as the base, saving you time without sacrificing flavor.

With just a handful of additional ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up a festive dessert in no time.

Topped with crushed candy canes for a festive, decorative touch

The bright red and white candy cane pieces not only add a festive look but also provide a delightful crunch.

It’s an easy way to elevate the presentation and make these brownies stand out on any holiday dessert table.

Combines rich, fudgy chocolate with refreshing peppermint

The deep, indulgent chocolate base pairs perfectly with the cool, refreshing taste of peppermint.

This classic flavor combination is a holiday favorite that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

• 1 box brownie mix – Choose a mix designed for an 8×8″ pan to ensure perfect proportions.
• 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter – Adds richness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
• 2 large eggs (room temperature) – Helps create a fudgy texture while binding the ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Balances the chocolate and peppermint flavors.
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract – Adds the signature refreshing holiday flavor.
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips – Melts into the brownies for bursts of gooey chocolate.
• 1/2 cup peppermint chips or crushed candy canes – Infuses a festive flavor and adds a slight crunch.

For the Peppermint Buttercream Frosting

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened – Forms the creamy base of the frosting.
• 1 pound (16 oz) confectioners’ sugar, sifted – Creates a smooth, sweet texture.
• 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract – Enhances the festive flavor of the frosting.
• 1 teaspoon light cream – Adjusts the frosting’s consistency for easy spreading.
• Crushed candy canes – A decorative garnish that adds color, texture, and extra peppermint flavor.

Equipment Needed

• 8×8″ baking pan: Ensures the perfect thickness and even baking for your brownies.
• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes mixing the brownie batter and frosting quick and effortless.
• Mixing bowls: Use one for the brownie batter and another for preparing the frosting.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients to achieve the best results.
• Spatula: Ideal for scraping the batter and frosting, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
• Parchment paper (optional): Lining the pan makes cleanup easier and helps remove the brownies effortlessly after baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Brownie Batter

1. Preheat the oven
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the batter. A properly preheated oven ensures even baking.
2. Prepare the baking pan
   Grease an 8×8″ baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent the brownies from sticking to the pan and makes cleanup easier.
3. Mix the ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Stir until the batter is smooth and all the ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Fold in the mix-ins
   Gently fold in the chocolate chips and peppermint chips (or crushed candy canes). These add bursts of flavor and texture to the brownies.

Step 2: Baking the Brownies

1. Pour the batter
   Transfer the batter to the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to ensure a uniform bake.
2. Bake the brownies
   Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-22 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
3. Cool completely
   Remove the pan from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling helps set the texture and makes them easier to frost.

Step 3: Preparing the Peppermint Buttercream Frosting

1. Cream the butter
   In a stand mixer or with a hand mixer, beat the softened butter until it becomes smooth and creamy. This is the foundation of a fluffy frosting.
2. Add the sugar
   Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar, mixing on low speed to avoid a mess. Continue mixing until the sugar is fully incorporated.
3. Add the flavor and cream
   Pour in the peppermint extract and light cream. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat until the frosting is light, fluffy, and easy to spread. Adjust the consistency, if needed, by adding more cream or sugar.

Step 4: Frosting and Decorating

1. Frost the brownies
   Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the peppermint buttercream frosting evenly over the top. Use a spatula to create a smooth layer.
2. Add the garnish
   Sprinkle crushed candy canes generously over the frosting. This adds a festive touch and a bit of crunch to the brownies.
3. Chill for clean cuts
   For neater slices, refrigerate the frosted brownies for about 15 minutes before cutting them into squares. This helps the frosting firm up, making it easier to slice cleanly.

Enjoy your festive peppermint candy cane brownies!

Tips for Perfect Peppermint Brownies

Use Room Temperature Eggs

Allow your eggs to come to room temperature before using them.

This simple step helps the eggs blend seamlessly with the other ingredients, creating a smoother batter.

Room-temperature eggs also contribute to a more consistent texture in the baked brownies.

Choose High-Quality Peppermint Extract

The flavor of peppermint is the star of this recipe, so it’s essential to use a high-quality extract.

Cheap or artificial extracts may taste overly sweet or harsh.

A pure peppermint extract ensures a balanced, refreshing flavor that complements the chocolate perfectly.

Avoid Overbaking

To achieve the desired fudgy texture, keep a close eye on the baking time.

Overbaking can dry out the brownies and ruin their moist, rich consistency.

Check for doneness with a toothpick after 20 minutes.

A few moist crumbs on the toothpick mean your brownies are ready to cool.

Add a Peppermint Patty Layer for Extra Flavor

For an even bolder peppermint flavor, place a layer of peppermint patties in the middle of the brownie batter before baking.

Simply pour half the batter into the pan, arrange the patties in a single layer, and then cover them with the remaining batter.

This adds an indulgent, gooey peppermint center to every bite.

Variations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free Option

If you’re serving guests with gluten sensitivities, swap the standard brownie mix for a gluten-free alternative.

Most gluten-free brownie mixes work just as well in this recipe, delivering the same fudgy texture and rich chocolate flavor.

Be sure to check that all other ingredients, like chocolate chips and peppermint chips, are also labeled gluten-free.

Dairy-Free Option

To make these brownies dairy-free, replace the butter with a high-quality dairy-free margarine.

Use dairy-free chocolate chips to maintain the same delicious chocolatey bursts in every bite.

For the frosting, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, and use a dairy-free cream or milk for the right consistency.

Extra Chocolatey

For the ultimate chocolate lover, take these brownies to the next level by drizzling melted chocolate over the frosted brownies.

After spreading the peppermint buttercream, melt dark or milk chocolate and use a spoon or piping bag to create a decorative drizzle.

This adds a rich, glossy finish and intensifies the chocolate flavor.

Mint Chocolate Chip Twist

Swap out regular chocolate chips for mint chocolate chips to enhance the minty flavor profile.

The combination of cool mint chips and peppermint extract creates a refreshing twist on the classic recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Peppermint candy cane brownies are versatile and can be served slightly chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.

Chilling them for a bit before serving gives the frosting a firmer texture, while room-temperature brownies offer a softer bite.

Pair these brownies with a glass of cold milk for a refreshing contrast to their rich, fudgy flavor.

Alternatively, serve them with a warm cup of hot cocoa to double down on the cozy holiday vibes.

These brownies shine as a centerpiece at holiday parties, make thoughtful additions to gift trays, and are a festive dessert that the whole family will enjoy during gatherings.

Storage Instructions

To keep your peppermint candy cane brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

This preserves their soft, fudgy texture while keeping the frosting intact.

If you need to store them for longer, refrigerate the brownies for up to a week, ensuring they’re sealed properly to prevent them from drying out.

For extended storage, freezing is an excellent option.

Wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

This method protects the brownies from freezer burn and allows you to take out only what you need.

When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the brownies at room temperature until they’re soft and ready to serve.

Conclusion

Peppermint candy cane brownies are the perfect blend of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint, making them an irresistible holiday treat.

Easy to prepare and customizable for any occasion, they’re sure to impress at parties, gift exchanges, or family gatherings.

Follow the tips and variations to make them your own, and enjoy a festive dessert that’s as delicious as it is eye-catching!