Candy Cane Swirl Brownies

Name: Candy Cane Swirl Brownies: A Festive Treat to Delight!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 cup crushed candy canes; 1/2 cup white chocolate chips

Posted on October 2, 2025

DESSERT

Difficulty

Prep time

Cooking time

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Servings

Introduction to Candy Cane Swirl Brownies

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself craving festive treats that bring joy to my family. That’s where these delightful Candy Cane Swirl Brownies come in! They’re not just any brownies; they’re a rich chocolatey delight with a refreshing peppermint twist. Perfect for busy moms like us, this recipe is quick and easy, making it a go-to for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights at home. Imagine serving these beautiful brownies to your loved ones, their faces lighting up with delight. Trust me, these brownies will become a cherished holiday tradition in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Candy Cane Swirl Brownies

These Candy Cane Swirl Brownies are a dream come true for busy moms and professionals. They come together in just 50 minutes, making them a quick solution for holiday baking. The rich chocolate flavor paired with a refreshing peppermint twist is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing at parties or cozy family gatherings. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how much joy they bring!

Ingredients for Candy Cane Swirl Brownies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these festive Candy Cane Swirl Brownies. Here’s what you’ll need:

Unsalted butter: This adds richness and moisture to the brownies. You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies and helps create that perfect chewy texture.
Large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and provide structure. For a vegan alternative, use flax eggs.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this enhances the overall flavor, making the brownies even more delicious.
All-purpose flour: This is the base of the brownies, giving them that classic brownie texture. Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier twist.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: This is what gives the brownies their rich chocolate flavor. Make sure to use high-quality cocoa for the best taste.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Baking powder: This helps the brownies rise slightly, giving them a light texture.
Crushed candy canes: These add a festive peppermint flavor and a delightful crunch. You can adjust the amount based on your preference.
White chocolate chips: They provide a creamy contrast to the chocolate brownies. Dark chocolate chips can be used for a richer flavor.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Candy Cane Swirl Brownies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brownies bake evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it well. You can use butter or cooking spray. This step is crucial for easy removal later!

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, melt the unsalted butter. I usually do this in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Once melted, stir in the granulated sugar until it’s well combined. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This helps create a smooth batter. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract for that lovely aroma. Trust me, your kitchen will smell divine!

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. This step is essential for evenly distributing the dry ingredients. Make sure there are no lumps in the cocoa powder. A smooth batter is key to those fudgy brownies!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks are okay. This will keep your brownies soft and chewy, just the way we love them!

Step 5: Add Candy Canes and White Chocolate

Fold in the crushed candy canes and white chocolate chips. This is where the magic happens! The candy canes add a festive crunch, while the white chocolate gives a creamy contrast. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter for that delightful peppermint surprise in every bite!

Step 6: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want a toothpick inserted in the center to come out clean, but a few moist crumbs are perfectly fine.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut them into squares. Serve them up and watch your loved ones enjoy these festive treats!

Tips for Success

Use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
Don’t overmix the batter; it keeps brownies fudgy.
For a more intense peppermint flavor, add a few drops of peppermint extract.
Let the brownies cool completely before cutting for cleaner squares.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Equipment Needed

9×13 inch baking pan: A standard size for brownies; you can use a glass or metal pan.
Mixing bowls: A large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry ingredients.
Whisk: Perfect for mixing dry ingredients; a fork works in a pinch.
Spatula: Great for folding in ingredients and spreading the batter evenly.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.

Variations

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free version.
Vegan: Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs and coconut oil in place of butter for a plant-based treat.
Mint Chocolate: Swap out white chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips and add a few drops of peppermint extract for an extra minty kick.
Nutty Brownies: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
Swirled Cheesecake: Add a layer of cream cheese mixture on top before baking for a cheesecake brownie hybrid.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Candy Cane Swirl Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Serve with a warm cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea to enhance the festive flavors.
For a beautiful presentation, dust with powdered sugar and top with extra crushed candy canes.

FAQs about Candy Cane Swirl Brownies

Can I make these Candy Cane Swirl Brownies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake these brownies a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and delicious, ready to impress your guests!

How do I store leftover brownies?

To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to two months. Just make sure to wrap them well!

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes! Feel free to swap the white chocolate chips for dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips. This will give your Candy Cane Swirl Brownies a richer flavor. You can even mix and match for a fun twist!

What can I do if I don’t have candy canes?

If candy canes are hard to find, you can use crushed peppermint candies or peppermint extract for flavor. Just be sure to adjust the amount based on your taste preference!

Are these brownies suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This way, everyone can enjoy these festive Candy Cane Swirl Brownies!

Final Thoughts

Making these Candy Cane Swirl Brownies is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories with your loved ones. The rich chocolate combined with the festive peppermint swirl brings a smile to everyone’s face. I love how this recipe is simple enough for a busy day yet impressive enough for holiday gatherings. Each bite is a delightful reminder of the joy of the season. So, gather your family, whip up a batch, and let the sweet aroma fill your home. Trust me, these brownies will become a cherished part of your holiday traditions!