Imagine sinking your teeth into a fudgy brownie, where chocolate meets a refreshing burst of peppermint and a delightful crunch. Candy Cane Brownie Bombs are the perfect holiday treat, combining rich flavors with a festive flair that will make your taste buds dance like sugarplums.
Growing up, we always had a cookie decorating party every December, complete with flour fights and questionable frosting color choices. My aunt would whip up her famous brownies, but I secretly wished for something that screamed “holiday magic.” Enter these whimsical Candy Cane Brownie Bombs, a treat so good they could make even the Grinch crack a smile!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Candy Cane Brownie Bombs are not just easy to prepare; they bring a unique flavor profile that marries chocolate with the seasonal zing of peppermint. Their stunning appearance will dazzle anyone at your holiday gathering while their versatility means you can customize them with different toppings or fillings based on your fancy. Perfect for festive parties or cozy nights in, these treats are bound to become a holiday staple.
Ingredients for Candy Cane Brownie Bombs
Here’s what you need for this delicious dish:
How to Make Candy Cane Brownie Bombs
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brownies bake evenly and come out perfectly fudgy! While that’s heating up, prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper—because nobody likes sticky situations when it comes to brownies!
Step 2: Prepare Your Brownie Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine your brownie mix according to package instructions. Typically, you’ll need water, vegetable oil, and eggs—easy peasy! Mix until well combined but remember: no one wants chewy brownies from over-mixing (we’re not making bread here). Fold in half of the crushed candy canes to infuse some peppermint magic into the batter.
Step 3: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly using a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not gooey batter!). Let cool completely in the pan before attempting any further moves—impatience leads only to heartbreak.
Step 4: Whip Up The Filling
While those brownies cool down like they’re chillin’ on an ice rink, grab another bowl to make the filling. Beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, remaining crushed candy canes, and peppermint extract until smooth and creamy. It should be dreamy enough that you might consider eating it straight with a spoon… I won’t judge!
Step 5: Assemble Your Bombs
Once cooled, cut the brownies into small squares (or rectangles if you’re feeling rebellious). Take each square and scoop out a bit of brownie from the center—this is where we’ll put our luscious filling! Fill each hole with about a teaspoon of cream cheese mixture before placing back on top of brownie pieces you’ve removed. You’ll want it like an edible treasure chest!
Step 6: Final Touches
Melt white chocolate chips in short bursts in the microwave (about 15 seconds at a time) until smooth. Drizzle this heavenly concoction over each assembled brownie bomb generously—don’t be shy! Finish with an extra sprinkle of crushed candy canes on top for that festive flair.
Let them set in the fridge for about 30 minutes so everything can meld together beautifully. Serve chilled or at room temperature; either way, prepare yourself for rave reviews!
Garnish with fresh mint leaves if you’re feeling fancy and serve immediately to enjoy every scrumptious bite of these delightful Candy Cane Brownie Bombs!
Mastering the Secrets of Cooking
For the best Candy Cane Brownie Bombs, prepare your brownie base first. Allow it to cool completely before adding the filling. This ensures a delightful contrast between the fudgy center and the creamy topping.
Make Your Recipe Unique
Want to add a twist? Swap out the standard chocolate brownies for blondie brownies for a butterscotch surprise. You can also replace mint extract with peppermint oil for an extra zing!
Smart Storage & Reheating
To keep your Candy Cane Brownie Bombs fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain their chewy texture. Enjoy within three days for maximum flavor!
The Chef’s Golden Tips
I remember the first time I made Candy Cane Brownie Bombs; my kitchen smelled like a holiday wonderland. My friends devoured them, leaving me with only crumbs and smiles!
Conclusion for Candy Cane Brownie Bombs
The Candy Cane Brownie Bombs offer a delightful combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint, making them the perfect treat for any festive occasion. Not only are they easy to make, but these treats also deliver a fun, bite-sized indulgence that everyone will love. Their vibrant colors and unique flavor profile add a festive touch to your dessert table. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and dive into this delicious recipe today! You won’t regret bringing these sweet bites of joy to your holiday celebrations.
PrintCandy Cane Brownie Bombs
Delicious candy cane brownie bombs recipe with detailed instructions and nutritional information.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Method: Bake
Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix, preferably fudge
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 3–4 candy canes, crushed
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine your brownie mix according to package instructions, adding water, vegetable oil, and eggs.
- Mix until well combined and fold in half of the crushed candy canes.
- Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly using a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
- In another bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, remaining crushed candy canes, and peppermint extract until smooth and creamy.
- Once cooled, cut the brownies into small squares and scoop out a bit of brownie from the center.
- Fill each hole with about a teaspoon of cream cheese mixture before placing back on top of brownie pieces you’ve removed.
- Melt white chocolate chips in short bursts in the microwave until smooth.
- Drizzle the melted white chocolate over each assembled brownie bomb generously.
- Finish with an extra sprinkle of crushed candy canes on top.
- Let them set in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Store brownie bombs in airtight container.
Reheat briefly in microwave, enjoy!
Serve with whipped cream drizzle.
Use crushed candy canes for crunch.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for Candy Cane Brownie Bombs?
To make Candy Cane Brownie Bombs, you will need brownie mix, eggs, oil, peppermint extract, cream cheese, powdered sugar, crushed candy canes, and chocolate for dipping. Be sure to have a few extra candy canes on hand for garnish!
How do I store leftover Candy Cane Brownie Bombs?
Store any leftover Candy Cane Brownie Bombs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them. Just allow them to come back to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Can I freeze Candy Cane Brownie Bombs?
Yes, you can freeze Candy Cane Brownie Bombs! Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.
How can I customize my Candy Cane Brownie Bombs?
You can customize your Candy Cane Brownie Bombs by adding different flavors or toppings. Try using flavored extracts like vanilla or almond in place of peppermint. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate for dipping or add toppings like sprinkles or additional crushed candy canes for extra crunch!