Candy Cane Brownies: A Delicious Treat for the Holidays
Introductions
Candy Cane Brownies are the quintessential holiday dessert, combining the rich, fudgy goodness of chocolate with the refreshing crunch of peppermint. These brownies are sure to become a favorite at your festive gatherings. Subscribe to get this recipe straight to your inbox!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a beautiful blend of flavors and textures. The marriage of chocolate and peppermint creates a delightful taste that’s both indulgent and refreshing. It’s simple to prepare, family-friendly, and perfect for holiday celebrations. Plus, they look as good as they taste!
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (plus extra for garnish)
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Necessary Tools
– Medium saucepan
– Whisk
– Large mixing bowl
– 9×13-inch baking pan
– Parchment paper
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
– Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate flavor.
– Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for extra crunch.
– Try using mint extract in place of vanilla extract for a mintier flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
4. Stir the eggs and vanilla extract into the cooled butter.
5. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
6. Fold in the crushed candy canes and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
7. Spread the batter in the prepared pan. Optionally, sprinkle extra crushed candy canes on top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick (moist crumbs should remain).
9. Cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also make a delightful addition to your holiday dessert table.
Pro Tips for Success
– Ensure your butter is not too hot when adding the eggs to prevent them from cooking.
– Use parchment paper to easily lift and slice the brownies after baking.
Storing and Reheating
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for up to a month. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy warm.
FAQ Section
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour.
How can I make the brownies more fudgy?
Decrease the baking time slightly for a chewier texture.
Conclusion
Candy Cane Brownies are a simple yet delightful holiday treat that combines the best of chocolate and peppermint flavors. We hope you enjoy baking and sharing these with your loved ones. Don’t forget to leave a review or share your creations on social media!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per serving:
Calories: 200
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 80mg
Total Carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 3g
