If you’re searching for a festive treat that feels like a cozy holiday hug in every bite, the Candy Cane White Chocolate Chip Blondies Recipe is your new best friend. These blondies blend the creamy sweetness of white chocolate chips with the cool, refreshing crunch of candy cane bits, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for holiday gatherings or just a seasonal indulgence, this recipe brings together simple ingredients into a stunningly delicious dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in making these blondies irresistibly moist, flavorful, and festive. The combination of sugars gives you that golden chewy texture, while the candy cane bits and white chocolate chips add bursts of coolness and creamy sweetness.
- 1 cup butter, melted and cooled: This is the rich, buttery base that keeps your blondies perfectly tender.
- 3/4 cups sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a light, chewy texture.
- 3/4 cups brown sugar: Brings a deep caramel flavor and extra moisture to the blondies.
- 2 large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients and giving structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): Adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor, but you can skip it if you prefer.
- 2 cups all purpose flour (gluten-free for gluten-free): The main ingredient that forms the body of the blondies.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps your blondies rise just enough to be soft and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 1 cup candy cane bits: Adds a refreshing minty crunch that’s perfect for the holiday season.
- 1 cup white chocolate chips: For creamy, sweet pockets that melt beautifully.
How to Make Candy Cane White Chocolate Chip Blondies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Wet Ingredients
Start by melting the butter and letting it cool slightly so it won’t cook the eggs. In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with the sugars, whisking them together until smooth and glossy. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a silky batter. A splash of vanilla extract here can really elevate the flavor if you’re using it.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This dry mix creates the foundation for your blondies’ structure and chewiness. Taking a moment here to sift the dry ingredients can help keep the blondies tender and light.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which could make the blondies tough. The batter should be thick and luscious, ready to welcome the holiday mix-ins.
Step 4: Add Candy Cane Bits and White Chocolate Chips
Now for the fun part: stir in the candy cane bits and white chocolate chips evenly. These are the stars that give the blondies their enchanting look and flavor signature. Make sure those peppermint bits are well distributed so every bite has a sweet and minty surprise.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour your batter into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Pop it into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. Resist the temptation to overbake; you want the blondies chewy and soft, not dry.
How to Serve Candy Cane White Chocolate Chip Blondies Recipe
Garnishes
For a festive finishing touch, sprinkle a few extra candy cane bits or white chocolate shavings on top of the warm blondies before serving. This adds a bit of sparkle and texture that makes them irresistible. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also lend a snowy effect perfect for winter celebrations.
Side Dishes
These blondies pair beautifully with classic holiday beverages like hot cocoa, peppermint tea, or a creamy latte. For a more indulgent spread, serve alongside whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream which contrasts nicely with the minty crunch and sweet chocolate.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut into squares and serve on a festive platter lined with evergreen sprigs or holiday-themed napkins for an inviting look. You could also stack the blondies with layers of marshmallow fluff or drizzle melted white chocolate on top for extra elegance. Wrapping individual pieces in clear cellophane with a ribbon makes them perfect edible gifts!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your Candy Cane White Chocolate Chip Blondies Recipe leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps them soft and chewy, preserving all their wonderful flavors and textures without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these blondies later, they freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving or gently warm to recapture that freshly baked vibe.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked warmth, microwave individual blondie pieces for 10-15 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes. This will melt the white chocolate chips slightly and soften the blondie for a cozy treat anytime.
FAQs
Can I substitute the candy cane bits with something else?
Absolutely! If peppermint isn’t your thing, you can swap candy cane bits for crushed toffee, nuts, or even dried cranberries for a different festive twist. Each option adds a unique texture and flavor to your blondies.
Is it possible to make these blondies gluten-free?
Yes, just use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious!
Can I use white chocolate chunks instead of chips?
Yes, white chocolate chunks work wonderfully and create gooey pockets of sweetness. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces so they mix evenly throughout the batter.
Do the blondies need to be refrigerated?
Not necessarily. These blondies keep well at room temperature in an airtight container for several days. However, if your kitchen is warm or humid, refrigeration can help maintain freshness longer.
How do I keep the candy cane bits from melting during baking?
Be sure to stir the candy cane bits in gently and avoid overbaking. Candy cane bits can soften slightly but shouldn’t fully melt, giving you that lovely minty crunch. Baking at the right temperature and time is key.
Final Thoughts
Making the Candy Cane White Chocolate Chip Blondies Recipe is like inviting a burst of holiday cheer right into your kitchen. These blondies are easy enough to whip up any day but special enough to make any occasion brighter. I promise once you try them, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe year after year. Go ahead—treat yourself to a batch today. You deserve every sweet, minty bite.
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Candy Cane White Chocolate Chip Blondies Recipe
Delight in the festive spirit with these Candy Cane White Chocolate Chip Blondies, combining rich buttery sweetness with the crisp, refreshing taste of crushed candy canes and creamy white chocolate chips. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy winter treat.
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 16 blondie squares
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, melted and cooled
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Dry Ingredients
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Add-ins
- 1 cup candy cane bits
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted and cooled butter with both sugars. Stir until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of the leavening agent and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the blondies tender.
- Add Candy Cane Bits and White Chocolate Chips: Fold in the candy cane bits and white chocolate chips evenly throughout the batter to infuse the festive flavors.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula for uniform thickness.
- Bake the Blondies: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to retain softness.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve. Store leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Crush candy canes finely to prevent large chunks that might overpower the texture.
- Ensure butter is cooled before mixing to prevent cooking the eggs prematurely.
- White chocolate chips can be substituted with white chocolate chunks for more texture.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
