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Peppermint Chocolate Brownies in a Jar make a thoughtful—and delicious—homemade gift! Layer crushed candy canes and chocolate brownie ingredients for fudgy brownies that are ready to bake in minutes. A festive recipe gift tag to attach to your homemade brownies in a jar is included!

A mason jar filled with layered baking ingredients for peppermint chocolate brownies, topped with crushed peppermint, chocolate chips, and marshmallows, decorated with a red ribbon and a recipe card labeled “Peppermint Brownies.”.


 

Quick Recipe Overview

A glass jar filled with brownie mix layers, topped with crushed peppermint and chocolate chips, is tied with a red ribbon and a recipe tag labeled Peppermint Brownies. A brownie is blurred in the background.

WHAT: A layered mason jar containing all the dry ingredients needed to make fudgy chocolate brownies with crushed candy canes throughout.

WHY: Creates a beautiful homemade gift that’s practical, festive, and results in delicious peppermint-infused brownies for the recipient to enjoy.

HOW: Layer brown sugar, cocoa powder, flour, chocolate chips, and crushed candy canes in a jar. Recipient adds eggs, butter, and oil before baking.

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Table of Contents

Why I Love Making Peppermint Chocolate Brownies

There’s nothing quite like giving a gift you’ve made with your own hands, and these peppermint chocolate brownies in a jar check every box. I started making these mason jar brownie mixes years ago when I wanted to give something special but practical to my neighbors during the holidays. The layered ingredients look beautiful through the glass, and the recipient gets the joy of baking fresh brownies whenever they’re ready.

What really sets this recipe apart is the crushed candy canes mixed right into the batter. The peppermint flavor isn’t overwhelming – it’s just enough to complement the rich chocolate without taking over. Plus, the cornstarch trick I use when crushing the candy canes keeps everything from turning into a sticky mess in the jar.

Melissa in her kitchen smiling in front of the starting ingredients for the chicken the quinoa salad and skillet chicken on the wood block in front of her

🩷 Melissa

The assembly takes about 20 minutes, and then you’ve got a gorgeous gift that looks like it came from a fancy bakery.

I love watching people’s faces when they see those distinct layers – brown sugar at the bottom, followed by cocoa powder, flour, chocolate chips, and those festive peppermint pieces on top. 😍

It’s a gift that keeps on giving because they’ll think of you when they’re enjoying warm brownies straight from the oven.

Ingredient Notes

Cornstarch: This ingredient serves double duty – a half tablespoon mixed with the crushed candy canes prevents sticking, while another half tablespoon in the dry ingredients helps create that perfect fudgy brownie texture.

Candy canes: You’ll need 9 standard-sized candy canes. Remove all the wrapping before crushing. The traditional peppermint flavor works best, but you can experiment with other candy cane flavors if you’re feeling adventurous.

Mason jar: A quart-sized (32oz) jar with a wide mouth works best for this recipe. The wide opening makes layering easier and creates a better visual presentation.

See the recipe card below for full information on ingredients and quantities.

Eight candy canes and seven glass bowls containing flour, brown sugar, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, white sugar, salt, and baking powder arranged on a white marble surface.

What will I need to make this recipe?

You will need the following ingredients and supplies to make this brownies in a jar recipe. Note that the recipe makes 1 batch of brownies for 1 jar. If you want to make more than one gift, you will need to make a separate batch for each jar.

Ingredients Needed to Make Peppermint Brownies in a Jar

  • Brown sugar
  • Granulated sugar
  • Cocoa powder
  • All-purpose flour
  • Cornstarch: I find that adding a little bit of cornstarch really helps these brownies achieve their fudgy texture.
  • Salt
  • Semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • Peppermint candy canes

Supplies Needed to Make Peppermint Brownies in a Jar

Download & Print the Gift Tag

You’re welcome to use the festive gift tag I made for this gift! It includes exactly what the recipient needs to finish the brownies and how to bake them.

Grab the gift tag and start your homemade gift making!

A mason jar filled with layered baking ingredients for peppermint chocolate brownies, topped with crushed peppermint, chocolate chips, and marshmallows, decorated with a red ribbon and a recipe card labeled “Peppermint Brownies.”.
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Peppermint Chocolate Brownies in a Jar

By: Melissa Griffiths
Peppermint Chocolate Brownies in a Jar make a thoughtful—and delicious—homemade gift! Layer crushed candy canes and chocolate brownie ingredients for fudgy brownies that are ready to bake in minutes. A festive recipe gift tag to attach to your homemade brownies in a jar is included!
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 34 minutes
Total: 54 minutes
Servings: 9 brownies (1 jar)
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Equipment

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Ingredients 

To be added to jar:

  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup cocoa powder
  • ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch, divided
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 9 peppermint candy canes

To be added by recipient:

  • 3 eggs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions 

Instructions to assemble the jar:

  • Remove the wrapping from the candy canes. Place the candy canes and ½ tablespoon cornstarch in a food processor. Use the ‘pulse’ setting for about 20 seconds or until the largest candy cane piece is no more than ¼ inch long. Set aside.
  • Add a wide mouth funnel to the top of a quart-sized or 32oz mason jar. Layer the ingredients in the jar in the following order: brown sugar, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, ½ tablespoon cornstarch, salt, chocolate chips, and crushed peppermint candy canes. After adding each layer, compress the ingredients in the jar with a muddler or other flat-ended kitchen utensil.
  • Tightly seal the jar and either tape the instructions to the side of the jar or tie them to the lid with a ribbon.

Instructions to make the brownies: (These instructions are printed on the gift label.)

  • Preheat oven to 350°F.
  • Remove 1 tablespoon of crushed candy cane from the top of the jar.
  • Mix the remaining ingredients in a bowl until combined. Add the eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and vegetable oil and mix again until smooth. Pour into a greased 9×9 baking pan.
  • Bake for 34-36 minutes. Immediately after removing from the oven, spread the reserved 1 tablespoon of crushed candy cane evenly on top of the brownies. Let cool and enjoy!

Notes

A Note on Times: Jar assembly takes approximately 20 minutes. The times included in the recipe are for preparing the brownies from the jar.
Crushing Candy Canes: If you don’t have a food processor, you can place the candy canes in a zipper bag and crush the canes with a rolling pin until the largest piece is no more than ¼-inch long. Add ½ tablespoon cornstarch to the bag and mix until the candy cane pieces are lightly coated in the cornstarch. Be careful not to poke a hole in the bag or you may lose some of the candy cane dust.
When you crush the candy canes, it’s likely that you’ll end up with both candy cane chunks and candy cane dust. Do not discard the dust. It spreads more easily through the brownie batter and helps give a more uniform peppermint flavor.
Funnel Substitute: If you do not have a wide mouth funnel, cut a piece of parchment paper that is at least six inches long and connect the edges to form a paper tube that can double as a funnel. (This method is depicted in the photographs.)
Seal Well: It is important to tightly seal the jar. This will help prevent moisture from getting in and will keep the ingredients fresh for longer. It will also help prevent the candy cane pieces from sticking together. (If you have one of these useful jar vacuum sealers, this is a great project to use it and really seal the gift jars!)
Layering is Optional: If you’d prefer, you can also mix the dry ingredients together before adding them to the jar. This will, of course, mean that the jar has a uniform, brownie mixture appearance rather than clear ingredient layers. In order for the recipient to top their brownies with crushed candy canes; however, I’d recommend keeping at least 1 tablespoon of candy canes unmixed and placed on top.
Use By Date: It is recommended that the brownies be made within 1 month of the jar being gifted. Until then, they should be kept in a cool, dry place.

Nutrition

Calories: 404kcal, Carbohydrates: 44g, Protein: 5g, Fat: 25g, Saturated Fat: 12g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g, Monounsaturated Fat: 7g, Trans Fat: 0.5g, Cholesterol: 83mg, Sodium: 157mg, Potassium: 228mg, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 30g, Vitamin A: 404IU, Calcium: 37mg, Iron: 3mg
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How To Make Peppermint Chocolate Brownies

Assembling the Gift Jars

A top-down view of a clear food processor bowl containing several whole mini candy canes and white powdered sugar, placed on a white marble surface.

Step 1: Remove the wrapping from the candy canes. Place the candy canes and ½ tablespoon cornstarch in a food processor.

A food processor containing crushed peppermint candies, viewed from above on a white marble surface.

Step 2: Use the ‘pulse’ setting for about 20 seconds or until the largest candy cane piece is no more than ¼ inch long. Set aside.

A glass mason jar with brown sugar at the bottom and a rolled piece of white parchment paper inside. There are small decorative pine trees and a candy cane nearby on a white surface.

Step 3:

A glass Kerr mason jar containing white and brown sugar, with a rolled-up piece of parchment paper inside. The jar is on a white surface, with miniature Christmas trees and a candy cane nearby.

Step 4:

A mason jar filled with layered dry baking ingredients sits on a white surface, with a rolled paper inside the jar. Two mini Christmas trees and a candy cane are nearby, against a dark background.

Step 3: Add a wide mouth funnel to the top of a quart-sized or 32oz mason jar. Layer the ingredients in the jar in the following order: brown sugar…

A glass jar filled with layered dry ingredients, including sugar, cocoa powder, and flour, sits on a white surface. A rolled piece of parchment paper is inserted on top. Miniature trees and two candy canes are nearby.

Step 4: …granulated sugar, cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, ½ tablespoon cornstarch, salt…

A glass jar filled with layered dry ingredients for baking, topped with chocolate chips and a rolled piece of parchment paper. Two miniature Christmas trees and a candy cane are in the background.

Step 5: …chocolate chips…

A glass jar filled with layered hot cocoa mix, including crushed peppermint, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and sugar. Two candy canes and small decorative pine trees are in the background.

Step 6: …and crushed peppermint candy canes. After adding each layer, compress the ingredients in the jar with a muddler or other flat-ended kitchen utensil.

A mason jar filled with layered brownie mix ingredients—brown sugar, white sugar, cocoa, chocolate chips, and crushed peppermint. The jar is topped with a red ribbon and a recipe card labeled Peppermint Brownies.

Step 7: Tightly seal the jar and either tape the instructions to the side of the jar or tie them to the lid with a ribbon.

A recipe card titled Peppermint Brownies sits on a white surface, surrounded by candy canes, red ribbon, and chocolate chips. The card lists ingredients and instructions for making peppermint brownies.

Step 8: Print the label, cut it out and punch a hole in the top, and use ribbon to attach it to the jar.

Making the Brownies

**These instructions are printed on the gift label.

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Remove 1 tablespoon of crushed candy cane from the top of the jar.
  3. Mix the remaining ingredients in a bowl until combined. Add the eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and vegetable oil and mix again until smooth. Pour into a greased 9×9 baking pan.
  4. Bake for 34-36 minutes. Immediately after removing from the oven, spread the reserved 1 tablespoon of crushed candy cane evenly on top of the brownies. Let cool and enjoy!
A square piece of chocolate brownie topped with crushed peppermint candy sits on a white plate, with another plate of brownie and a candy cane visible in the background.

FAQs for Peppermint Chocolate Brownies in a Jar

Why do I need to add cornstarch when crushing the candy canes?

The cornstarch coats the peppermint pieces and prevents them from sticking together in the jar. Without it, the candy canes absorb moisture from the air and clump into one large mass that’s nearly impossible to remove or mix into the batter.

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Yes! Dark chocolate chips create a more sophisticated flavor, while milk chocolate chips make sweeter brownies. You can even mix half semi-sweet and half white chocolate chips for variety.

How long do the ingredients stay fresh in the jar?

When properly sealed and stored in a cool, dry place, the jar will stay fresh for up to one month. The tight seal is crucial for keeping moisture out and preventing the candy cane pieces from sticking together.

Does the layering order matter?

Mostly yes. While you can swap the order of ingredients like brown sugar and granulated sugar, the crushed candy canes must stay on top. The recipient needs to remove about a tablespoon before mixing everything else together so they can sprinkle it on top after baking.

What if I don’t have a food processor?

Place the candy canes in a sturdy zipper bag and crush them with a rolling pin until the largest pieces are no bigger than ¼ inch. Add the cornstarch directly to the bag and shake to coat. Just be gentle to avoid puncturing the bag and losing the peppermint dust.

A jar filled with crushed peppermint candies, tied with a red ribbon, sits on a wooden plate with a pine sprig. Candy canes and a plate of brownies are visible in the background.

My Best Tips for Making Peppermint Chocolate Brownies in a Jar

👩‍🍳 Compress Each Layer: After adding each ingredient to the jar, press down firmly with a muddler or the flat end of a wooden spoon. This compression is essential for fitting everything into the jar and creating those distinct, beautiful layers.

👩‍🍳 Keep the Candy Cane Dust: When you crush the candy canes, you’ll end up with both chunks and fine dust. Don’t sift it out! The dust distributes evenly through the brownie batter and provides consistent peppermint flavor in every bite.

👩‍🍳 Label Clearly: Either tape the baking instructions to the side of the jar or tie them to the lid with ribbon. Include the three additional ingredients they’ll need: eggs, melted butter, and vegetable oil. Some people also like to include a small note about preheating the oven to 350°F.

👩‍🍳 Make a Paper Funnel: No wide-mouth funnel? Cut a piece of parchment paper at least six inches long and roll it into a cone shape. This works perfectly for adding ingredients without making a mess on the jar’s rim.

👩‍🍳 Test the Seal: After filling and sealing the jar, turn it upside down and gently shake it. If ingredients shift significantly or you see any gaps, remove the lid and compress the layers more before resealing.

What to Serve With Peppermint Brownies

These peppermint chocolate brownies pair beautifully with a steaming cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea for the ultimate winter treat. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate ganache for an elevated dessert.

For holiday gatherings, arrange the brownies on a platter alongside sugar cookies and gingerbread goodies for a festive dessert spread. They also complement coffee perfectly during afternoon gatherings or book club meetings.

If you’re serving these at a party, consider pairing them with eggnog, peppermint mochas, or even a glass of cold milk for a nostalgic treat that guests of all ages will appreciate.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Jar storage

Keep assembled jars in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for up to 1 month. The tight seal is essential for maintaining freshness and preventing the candy cane pieces from absorbing moisture.

Room temperature

Once baked, store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Refrigerator

Brownies will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week in an airtight container. Bring to room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave before serving for the best texture.

Freezer

Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.

Make-ahead tip

Assemble multiple jars during one session to have gifts ready throughout the season. Store them in a cool pantry and they’ll stay fresh until you’re ready to give them away.

A mason jar filled with layered brownie mix ingredients, topped with crushed peppermint, chocolate chips, and flour, tied with a red ribbon and a recipe tag labeled Peppermint Brownie.

Similar Recipes to Try

Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix in a Jar – Another beautiful layered gift featuring brown sugar, chocolate chips, and a hint of vanilla for classic homemade cookies.

Hot Cocoa Gift Set – Layer cocoa powder, sugar, mini marshmallows, and chocolate chips for an instant hot chocolate gift that’s perfect alongside these brownies.

S’mores Hot Chocolate Bombs – These are a fun and delicious treat that you can make at home that make wonderful gifts if you’d like to give something thoughtful and edible.

Homemade Peppermint Bark – The perfect homemade candy to make for the holidays with only 3 ingredients and a little time to let the chocolate set—it’s the easiest holiday treat ever!

A glass jar filled with layered dry ingredients for peppermint brownies, topped with crushed candy canes and chocolate chips. The jar is tied with a red ribbon and has a recipe card attached. A small pine sprig and candy canes are nearby.

More Brownie Recipes To Try

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