Delicious Candy Cane Desserts That Kids Will Love at Birthday Parties

There is something magical about candy canes. Those colorful swirls of red and white instantly bring to mind festive cheer, sugary joy, and playful indulgence. But who says candy canes are only meant for the holiday season? Imagine the glee on children's faces when they find their favorite candy transformed into beautiful birthday desserts.

The sweet fragrance of mint, with an equally alluring design, has given way to an unexpected but absolutely inescapable theme to birthday parties. Versatility has made candy canes the star ingredient in such a variety of fun, irresistible treats that kids won't be able to help reaching for them. It's from their signature crunch or in melting into something rich and creamy that candy canes work wonders in the desert world.

Whether you are planning a grand birthday bash or a cozy gathering, these candy cane-inspired desserts are sure to be showstoppers. Not only are they a visual delight, but their sweet, minty flavors also add a refreshing twist to traditional birthday fare. Ready to get inspired? Let's dive into these playful creations that are guaranteed to bring the party to life!

Candy Cane Milkshake Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 cups of vanilla ice cream
• 1 ½ cups of milk (cold)
• 4 candy canes (crushed)
• Whipped cream for topping
• Sprinkles or more crushed candy canes for garnish

Method:

Combine vanilla ice cream and milk together, until smooth and creamy. Add in crushed candy canes along with a drop of red food coloring, if using to make pastel pink. Mix all ingredients together for about three seconds to distribute the minty flavor. Pour milkshake into tall glasses. Top with whipped cream. Sprinkle with additional crushed candy canes or colorful sprinkles. Serve immediately, and watch the kids go wild with excitement.

Candy Cane Brownies

Brownies are already loved by the kids, but when added with candy canes, they become much more indulgent. The texture is chewy with some minty crunch now and then, this is the perfect match created in the world of desserts. These delightful fudgy brownies are best for birthday celebrations and would be a deliciously different surprise for whoever is celebrating their birthday.

Preheat, whip up your go-to brownie batter, and fold crushed candy canes into the batter just before pouring into a baking tray. When baked to gooey perfection, let them cool just enough to spread a glossy layer of chocolate ganache over the top, then finish by sprinkling more crushed candy canes over the top for an eye-catching, irresistible finish.

Serve these brownie squares on a platter decorated with whole candy canes or create a brownie tower for added pizzazz. The kids will love each bite, enjoying the richness of chocolate mixed with a refreshing minty flavor.

Candy Cane Cupcakes

Cupcakes are the center of any birthday party dessert table. When topped with candy cane magic, they become an instant hit. Soft, fluffy cake base combined with a swirl of mint-infused frosting creates perfect balance between textures and flavors.

Make these cupcakes special by using a vanilla or chocolate base and adding a dash of peppermint extract to the batter. Bake until golden and let them cool completely. For the frosting, whip up creamy buttercream with a touch of mint essence and red food coloring, you can also use beetroot puree to add natural color, for a swirled candy cane effect. Pipe the frosting onto the cupcakes in generous mounds, then garnish with crushed candy canes or mini candy cane pieces for a festive look.

Display these cupcakes on a tiered stand for maximum impact. Their vibrant red-and-white décor and a bright taste will have kids coming back for more.

Candy Cane Bark

If you’re looking for an easy, no-bake dessert that kids will adore, candy cane bark is your go-to option. It’s simple to make, visually appealing, and loaded with minty goodness.

Melt the white chocolate and spread it onto a parchment-lined tray in an even, thin layer. Immediately sprinkle crushed candy canes evenly over the top of the melted chocolate; press down so they adhere. If you like, you can add a pop of color by drizzling melted dark or milk chocolate over the top. Refrigerate the bark until firm, and then break it into ragged pieces.

Candy cane bark is not only a sweet treat but also an amazing party favor. Wrap the pieces in clear cellophane bags tied with bright ribbons and give them out to the young guests. They will enjoy crunching into these crispy, creamy, and minty treats long after the party is over.

Candy Cane Ice Cream Sundaes

Ice cream sundaes are always a crowd-pleaser at birthday parties, but adding candy canes would make them even more thrilling. This dessert layers flavors and textures in the most fun way.

Start by scooping vanilla or chocolate ice cream into bowls or dessert glasses. Add a drizzle of hot fudge or caramel sauce and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes. Repeat the layering until the glass is full, then top it off with whipped cream, a cherry, and a whole candy cane as a decorative stirrer.

To give this a more interactive touch, set up a candy cane sundae bar with some toppings such as crushed biscuits, chocolate chips, colorful sprinkles, and other bowls of crushed candy canes. Let the kids assemble their sundae however they prefer, making sure each piece is uniquely theirs. Such a hands-on dessert activity will be the crowning glory of the party.