Print

Peppermint Brownies Recipe Easy Candy Cane Crunch Holiday Treat

peppermint brownies - featured image

These fudgy peppermint brownies are topped with a festive candy cane crunch, blending rich chocolate and cool mint for the ultimate holiday treat. Quick, easy, and perfect for parties, gifting, or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (85g) unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch process preferred)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup (about 100g) crushed candy canes (divided)
  • 1/2 cup (about 65g) crushed candy canes (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang. Lightly grease the parchment.
  2. Place candy canes in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin to pea-sized pieces. Set aside 3/4 cup for the batter and 1/2 cup for topping.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until glossy and combined. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth after each. Stir in vanilla and peppermint extracts.
  4. In a separate bowl, sift or whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
  5. Add dry ingredients to wet mixture. Gently fold with a rubber spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Fold 3/4 cup crushed candy canes into the batter until evenly distributed.
  7. Scrape batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup crushed candy canes evenly over the surface.
  8. Bake for 28–32 minutes, until edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  9. Cool brownies completely in the pan on a wire rack (about 1 hour).
  10. Lift brownies from pan using parchment overhang. Cut into 16 squares with a sharp knife, wiping between cuts for clean edges.

Notes

For extra neat squares, chill brownies for 30 minutes before slicing. If candy canes melt into the brownies, it adds flavor and pretty swirls. Use Dutch-process cocoa for deeper flavor. Brownies can be made gluten-free or dairy-free with simple swaps. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: peppermint brownies, candy cane brownies, holiday brownies, Christmas dessert, easy brownies, chocolate peppermint, fudgy brownies, festive baking