Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This ensures your brownies won’t stick and will come out easily once baked.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly frothy. This mixture will give your brownies a rich and creamy base.

In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Sifting helps avoid lumps and ensures your brownies have a smooth texture.

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the brownies tough.

If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them into the batter now. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a festive finish.

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. Remove from oven and let cool completely.

Once cooled, cut the brownies into squares and serve. They’re perfect on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream and a cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate holiday treat.