Christmas Brownies

Christmas brownies are the perfect holiday treat, combining rich, fudgy chocolate with festive decorations. Whether topped with colorful sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or drizzled with white chocolate, these brownies bring holiday cheer to any gathering. They’re easy to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Fudgy: These brownies are irresistibly moist and chocolatey.
  • Festive and Fun: Perfect for decorating with holiday-themed toppings.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
  • Customizable: Add nuts, peppermint, or even a swirl of cream cheese.
  • Great for Gifting: Package them up for a delicious homemade holiday present.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Unsalted butter
  • Semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Eggs
  • Vanilla extract
  • All-purpose flour
  • Cocoa powder
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Holiday sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or white chocolate drizzle (for decoration)

Directions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
  2. Melt Butter & Chocolate: In a microwave or saucepan, melt butter and chocolate chips together, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: Whisk together the sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the melted chocolate mixture.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
  6. Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  7. Decorate: Once cooled, drizzle with white chocolate, sprinkle crushed candy canes, or add holiday sprinkles.
  8. Cut & Serve: Slice into squares and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 12 brownies
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

  • Peppermint Brownies: Add crushed candy canes or peppermint extract for a minty twist.
  • Nutty Brownies: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
  • Cream Cheese Swirl: Swirl in sweetened cream cheese before baking.
  • Salted Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the brownies and sprinkle with sea salt.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze brownies in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
  • Reheating: Microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore the fudgy texture.
Christmas Brownies

FAQs

Can I use a boxed brownie mix?

Yes! Just bake as directed and add festive decorations for a holiday touch.

How do I make my brownies extra fudgy?

Use more butter and less flour, and avoid overbaking.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the brownies a day in advance and store them covered until ready to serve.

How do I cut clean brownie squares?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean after each cut for neat slices.

What’s the best way to decorate Christmas brownies?

White chocolate drizzle, crushed candy canes, holiday sprinkles, or a dusting of powdered sugar all work beautifully.

Can I add alcohol for an adult version?

Yes! A splash of Baileys or peppermint schnapps can enhance the holiday flavor.

Can I make these brownies dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips.

Why did my brownies turn out cakey?

Too much flour or overbaking can result in a cakier texture.

How do I store decorated brownies?

Keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent decorations from melting.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a larger pan and increase the baking time slightly.

Conclusion

Christmas brownies are the perfect way to bring holiday magic to your dessert table. Whether you enjoy them plain or decked out in festive toppings, these brownies are a must-try for the season. Make a batch for your family, a party, or as a thoughtful homemade gift!

Print
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Christmas Brownies

Christmas Brownies

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  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Makes about 12 brownies
  • Category: Dessert, Holiday Treats
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Christmas Brownies are rich, fudgy, and topped with festive decorations to bring holiday cheer! Whether you swirl in peppermint, add sprinkles, or drizzle them with white chocolate, they’re the perfect sweet treat for holiday gatherings.


Ingredients

For the Brownies:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar

  • 3 large eggs

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp baking powder

  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

For the Toppings (Choose Your Favorite!):

  • 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (for a peppermint twist)

  • 1/4 cup holiday sprinkles

  • 1/2 cup white chocolate, melted, for drizzling

  • Powdered sugar, for a snowy dusting


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

  2. Mix Wet Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

  3. Add Dry Ingredients – Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir until just combined (don’t overmix!). Fold in chocolate chips if using.

  4. Bake – Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

  5. Cool & Decorate – Let the brownies cool completely before adding toppings.

  6. Festive Toppings:

    • Peppermint Brownies: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top while the brownies are still warm.

    • Snowy Brownies: Lightly dust with powdered sugar.

    • Drizzle Magic: Melt white chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled brownies. Add sprinkles for extra holiday cheer!

  7. Slice & Serve – Cut into squares or use cookie cutters to create Christmas tree or star shapes. Enjoy!


Notes

  • For extra fudgy brownies, slightly underbake and let them cool completely before cutting.

  • Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract for a minty holiday twist.

  • These brownies store well in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

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