Candy Cane Shaped Peppermint Ice Cream Brownie Cake
This festive frozen dessert combines rich fudge brownies with creamy peppermint ice cream and fluffy whipped topping, shaped like a candy cane for holiday presentation. The brownie base is cut into a decorative candy cane shape, then layered with softened peppermint bon bon ice cream and topped with whipped cream. Crushed candy canes sprinkled diagonally across the surface create the classic candy cane stripe pattern. Perfect for Christmas parties, holiday gatherings, or any winter celebration where you want to impress guests with both flavor and visual appeal.
Ingredients
- 1 pkg fudge brownie mixhomemade brownies1:1vegetarian
use your favorite recipe
- ½ cup oil
- ¼ cup water
- 3 large eggs
- 3 cups peppermint bon bon ice cream, softened
- 3 cups frozen extra-creamy whipped topping, thawed
- ½ cup candy canes, crushed (about 7 large)
Instructions
- 1
Heat oven to 350°F and line 13x9-inch pan with foil
- 2
Prepare brownie mix according to package directions using oil, water and eggs
- 3
Pour batter into foil-lined pan and bake for 28 to 30 minutes until toothpick inserted 2 inches from side comes out almost clean
- 4
Cool completely for 1 hour
- 5
Lift brownie from pan using foil and cut out 11 1/2x8-inch candy cane shape using pattern
- 6
Place shaped brownie on serving platter and reserve remaining brownie pieces for another use
- 7
Mound softened ice cream onto candy cane-shaped brownie and spread evenly
- 8
Top with thawed whipped topping, spreading evenly over top and sides
- 9
Sprinkle crushed candy canes diagonally on whipped topping to resemble candy cane stripes
- 10
Cover loosely with foil and freeze at least 4 hours or overnight before serving
Tips
Let the ice cream soften at room temperature for easier spreading, but don't let it melt completely or it will be too runny.
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water to cut clean slices when serving the frozen dessert.
Place candy canes in a sealed plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin for even pieces that won't scatter.
Good to Know
Keep frozen for up to 1 month wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil
Can be made up to 3 days ahead and kept frozen until serving
Let stand 5-10 minutes at room temperature before slicing for easier cutting
Common Mistakes
Don't overbake the brownie or it will be too hard when frozen
Ensure ice cream is properly softened to avoid tearing the brownie when spreading
Substitutions
use your favorite recipe
add extract to vanilla
FAQ
Can I use a different ice cream flavor?
Yes, any ice cream flavor works well. Chocolate, vanilla, or mint chocolate chip are great alternatives that complement the brownie base.
How long does this need to freeze?
Freeze at least 4 hours for firm slicing, though overnight is preferred. The dessert needs time to set properly for clean cuts.
Can I make this without the candy cane shape?
Absolutely! Keep the brownie rectangular and layer normally. The candy cane shape is decorative but not essential for taste.