Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (for topping)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the brownies.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Stir until well blended and smooth.
- Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla powder until fully incorporated.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; do not overmix.
- Step 5: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Step 6: Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top while they are still warm for a festive touch. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
- For optimal freshness, store leftover Candy Cane Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.
- If you want to enjoy your brownies warm, simply reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until they’re slightly warm and gooey.
- These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the rich chocolate flavor and add a festive touch.
- For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter along with the vanilla for an intensified candy cane taste!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (approx. 50g)
- Calories: 250
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 22g