A Sweet Holiday Treat: Candy Cane Brownies

Introduction

The holiday season brings with it a sense of joy and warmth, often best expressed through the delightful treats we share with our loved ones. This year, I decided to try my hand at Candy Cane Brownies, a festive twist on the classic chocolate brownie. The combination of rich, fudgy brownies topped with a light peppermint frosting and crushed candy canes was an absolute hit with my family. The kids couldn’t get enough of the crunchy candy canes, and the adults appreciated the perfect balance of chocolate and mint. Not only did these brownies taste fantastic, but they also looked beautiful on the dessert table, making them a perfect addition to our holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon corn syrup (or honey)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder, sifted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

For the Peppermint Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 to 2.5 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1-2 tablespoons whipping cream
• Red food coloring
• 2-3 candy canes, crushed

Instructions

1. Make the Brownies:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly grease.
• In a large bowl, stir together the melted butter, vegetable oil, corn syrup, granulated sugar, and sifted cocoa powder until well combined.
• Whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
• Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure the brownies remain fudgy.
• Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool completely.

1. Make the Peppermint Frosting:

• In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
• Gradually add powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition until combined.
• Beat in the peppermint extract and a few drops of red food coloring to achieve your desired shade of pink.
• Gradually add the whipping cream, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

1. Assemble:

• Spread the peppermint frosting over the cooled brownies.
• Sprinkle the top with crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
• Slice into squares and serve!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 16 brownies
• Calories per Serving: 275 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Cut brownies into squares for easy serving.
• Garnish with additional crushed candy canes or sprinkles for extra flair.
• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
• Pair with a cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Additional Tips

1. Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor in your brownies.
2. Let Them Cool: Allow the brownies to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
3. Peppermint Extract: Adjust the amount of peppermint extract in the frosting based on your taste preference—start with less if you’re unsure.
4. Crushing Candy Canes: Use a zip-top bag and a rolling pin to crush candy canes easily without making a mess.
5. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Mint Swirl: Add a swirl of chocolate ganache on top of the frosting for a more decadent treat.
• Nutty Brownies: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the brownie batter for added texture.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate for a dairy-free version.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
• Different Extracts: Experiment with other extracts like almond or vanilla in the frosting for unique flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Parties: These brownies make an excellent addition to any holiday dessert table.
• Gift Giving: Package the brownies in festive boxes for a sweet homemade gift.
• Potlucks: Bring a tray of brownies to potluck gatherings; they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
• Kids’ Parties: These festive brownies are perfect for children’s birthday parties or holiday celebrations.
• Coffee Shops: Serve alongside your favorite coffee or espresso drink for a delightful afternoon treat.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the brownies (without frosting) for up to three months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Frosting Freezing: The peppermint frosting can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to rewhip it before spreading on the brownies.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

• Yes, you can substitute margarine, but the taste and texture may vary slightly.

1. What if I don’t have cocoa powder?

• You can try using carob powder as a substitute, but the flavor will be different.

1. Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

• Absolutely! These brownies can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container.

1. How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

• They are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

1. Can I use chocolate chips in the brownie batter?

• Yes, you can fold in chocolate chips for extra chocolaty goodness!

1. How can I make these brownies less sweet?

• Reduce the amount of sugar in the brownie batter or use less frosting.

1. Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

• You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use plant-based butter and chocolate.

1. How can I store leftover brownies?

• Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for later enjoyment.

1. What can I use instead of corn syrup?

• Honey or agave syrup can be used as a substitute for corn syrup.

1. How do I make the brownies chewier?
   • Try using a little less flour or adding an extra egg yolk to the batter.

Conclusion

Candy Cane Brownies are not just a delightful treat; they embody the spirit of the holiday season with their festive colors and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, looking for the perfect gift, or simply wanting to treat yourself and your family, these brownies are sure to impress. With their rich chocolate base, creamy peppermint frosting, and crunchy candy cane topping, they offer a little bit of everything that makes holiday baking special. So, gather your ingredients, get in the kitchen, and create a batch of these scrumptious brownies that will surely become a cherished tradition in your home. Happy baking!

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