As I took my first bite of these festive little squares, I realized they were more than just dessert; they were a celebration on a plate! These Christmas Present Brownies transform a simple chocolate treat into delightful gifts that everyone will love. With their rich, fudgy goodness and a fun decorating process, they are the perfect way to spread holiday cheer while spending quality time in the kitchen. Not only do these brownies provide a sweet surprise for guests at your holiday gatherings, but they also bring a sense of creativity to your baking routine. Imagine gathering friends and family around as you all drizzle colorful candy melts and add mini bows! Are you ready to make your holidays even sweeter with these charming Christmas Present Brownies? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These Brownies So Special?
Festive Appeal: These Christmas Present Brownies are not just delicious but also visually stunning, making them the star of any holiday gathering. The playful decoration process is guaranteed to bring smiles and laughter.
Rich Fudgy Flavor: Indulge in the rich, chocolatey goodness that these brownies offer. Each bite is a celebration of flavor, guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Interactive Fun: Gather family and friends for a festive decorating session. Drizzling vibrant candy melts and adding candy bows turns baking into a joyful event!
Versatile Delight: Whether you’re serving them at holiday parties or gifting them to loved ones, these brownies are the perfect homemade treat to spread cheer this season.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these brownies are perfect for bakers of all skill levels. For more delightful dessert ideas, check out my simple chocolate chip cookies and easy vanilla cake recipes!
Christmas Present Brownie Ingredients
• Get ready to create sweet festive magic!
For the Brownies
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; you can substitute unsweetened applesauce to cut the fat.
- Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and a lovely texture; coconut sugar can be used for a healthier option.
- Large Eggs – Binds everything together while adding moisture and structure.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall chocolate flavor for a delightful essence.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure and the desired texture to our brownies.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Imparts that rich chocolate flavor; opt for Dutch-process for a deeper taste.
- Baking Powder – A leavening agent that helps create a perfectly risen brownie.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and amplifies the chocolatey goodness.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (optional) – For extra fudginess and chocolate flavor; feel free to switch to dark or milk chocolate for a unique twist.
For Decoration
- Candy Melts (Red, Green, White) – The colorful ribbons that make these brownies look like gifts!
- Mini Candy Bows/Sprinkles (optional) – Sprinkle on these festive elements for a joyful touch.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Present Brownies
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt ½ cup unsalted butter until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in 1 cup of granulated sugar until glossy. Add in 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing well until fully incorporated and smooth.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together ½ cup all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. If you’re feeling indulgent, you can also fold in ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra layer of fudginess in your Christmas Present Brownies.
Step 3: Bake the Brownies
Pour the beautifully mixed brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, until the edges look set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before decorating.
Step 4: Cut and Decorate
Once cool, lift the brownie slab from the pan using the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into squares or rectangles, resembling little festive presents. In separate microwave-safe bowls, melt your choice of red, green, and white candy melts according to package instructions, stirring until smooth and drizzling them over the cut brownies like colorful ribbons.
Step 5: Set Decorations
After drizzling the candy melts, finish off your Christmas Present Brownies by placing mini candy bows or festive sprinkles on top for that extra holiday flair. Let the decorations set at room temperature or pop them in the fridge for 10–15 minutes until the candy melts harden completely. Serve these delightful treats at your holiday gathering and watch them disappear!
Storage Tips for Christmas Present Brownies
Room Temperature: Keep your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This helps retain their fudgy texture and rich flavor.
Fridge: Refrigerate for up to a week in an airtight container. Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and keep them fresh longer.
Freezer: Store brownies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap for easy portioning later.
Reheating: To enjoy a freshly baked taste, reheat brownies in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. These Christmas Present Brownies will taste just as delightful when warmed!
Christmas Present Brownies: Festive Twists
Feel free to mix and match these ideas, turning your Christmas Present Brownies into something uniquely delightful and tailored to your loved ones’ tastes!
- Healthier Option: Substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce for a guilt-free treat. Your brownies will still be fudgy and delicious!
- Different Chocolate: Swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate or dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor. Each variety brings its own twist to this classic!
- Icing Alternative: Use colored icing or buttercream for decoration instead of candy melts if you prefer a creamier texture and a sweeter touch.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for a delightful crunch and an added layer of flavor.
- Minty Freshness: Incorporate peppermint extract or crushed peppermint candies into your batter for a refreshing holiday twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
- Spiced Aroma: Boost the flavor profile by adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients; it brings a warm spiciness reminiscent of holiday treats.
- Boxed Mix Shortcut: For a quicker twist, use a boxed brownie mix, focusing on the creative decoration aspect. It saves time while still providing fun!
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these delightful brownies with a side of vanilla ice cream or a cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy dessert experience. Don’t forget to check out my classic hot cocoa recipe for cozy nights!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Present Brownies are a delightful treat that can easily fit into your busy schedule! You can bake the brownies up to 3 days in advance; just allow them to cool completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them at room temperature to maintain their fudginess. If you’re planning on decorating them, I recommend holding off and adding the candy melts and bows just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant. When you’re ready to finish the recipe, simply drizzle the melted candy melts over the cut brownies and let them set for about 10–15 minutes in the fridge. This way, you’ll save time and ensure your holiday treats are just as delicious and festive as they should be!
Expert Tips for Christmas Present Brownies
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Cool Before Cutting: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing; this ensures clean edges and preserves their fudgy texture.
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Mind the Bake Time: Avoid overbaking! Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs for perfect brownies.
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Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for real unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract for superior flavor in your Christmas Present Brownies.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep your brownies chewy and rich. Overmixing can lead to a cakey texture.
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Explore Decorations: Get creative with decorations! Swap candy melts for colored icing or sprinkles to make your brownies uniquely festive.
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Experiment with Flavors: Play around with different chocolate chips, like dark or milk chocolate, to create your ideal flavor profile in these delightful brownies.
What to Serve with Christmas Present Brownies
Indulging in these delightful treats is just the beginning; let’s explore some perfect pairings to elevate your holiday dessert experience!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture contrasts beautifully with fudgy brownies, making each bite a dreamy delight.
- Peppermint Whipped Cream: Adding a festive minty freshness to each slice, this whipped cream is a seasonal twist everyone will love.
- Hot Cocoa: Rich, warm, and chocolatey, a cup of hot cocoa alongside your brownies can create a cozy, nostalgic moment.
- Coffee: The deep, rich flavors of coffee perfectly balance the sweetness of the brownies, enhancing the overall chocolate experience.
- Festive Fruit Salad: A light, vibrant fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the brownies. Plus, it adds a splash of color to your dessert table!
- Spiced Apple Cider: As a warm beverage, spiced apple cider offers a cozy, aromatic experience that pairs well with the chocolatey goodness of dessert.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Keep the chocolate theme going with fresh strawberries dipped in rich chocolate – a luscious and romantic pairing!
- Mini Cupcakes: These bite-sized treats allow for even more variety and fun when serving – arrange a mix of flavors alongside your brownies for a dessert buffet.
- Christmas Cookies: A festive assortment of cookies can complement the brownies beautifully, allowing for a delightful holiday spread inviting everyone to indulge.
Christmas Present Brownies Recipe FAQs
What kind of chocolate should I use for the brownies?
For the best flavor, I recommend using unsweetened cocoa powder for the batter and semi-sweet chocolate chips for an added fudginess. If you prefer something a bit richer, dark chocolate chips can elevate the chocolate experience even more!
How should I store my brownies?
Keep your Christmas Present Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their fresh, fudgy texture. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week; just be sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Absolutely! To freeze your Christmas Present Brownies, wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Why did my brownies turn out cakey instead of fudgy?
If your brownies are cakey, it could be due to overmixing the batter or extending the baking time. Make sure to mix just until combined and check for doneness around the 30-minute mark. The toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs for that perfect fudgy texture you want!
Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, if you’re baking for someone with allergies, keep in mind that the recipe contains eggs and can also include nuts depending on your chocolate choice. You can substitute eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and opt for nut-free chocolate varieties to make these brownies more allergy-friendly.
What should I use for decoration if I can’t find candy melts?
If candy melts aren’t available, you can easily make a simple icing using powdered sugar and a little milk or water, colored with food dye. Alternatively, melted chocolate can also work beautifully for drizzling and gives a rich, decadent finish to your Christmas Present Brownies!
Festive Christmas Present Brownies That Wow Your Holiday Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch pan with parchment paper. Melt ½ cup unsalted butter in a saucepan until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in 1 cup of granulated sugar, then add in 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, sift together ½ cup all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients and optionally fold in ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, until edges are set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
- Lift the brownie slab from the pan and cut into squares. Melt red, green, and white candy melts in separate bowls and drizzle over the brownies.
- Add mini candy bows or sprinkles on top and let set at room temperature or in the fridge for 10-15 minutes.
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