Christmas Brownies

Name: Christmas Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup chocolate chips or festive sprinkles (for topping)

by Vincent

Published on: December 16, 2025

Deliciously festive Christmas brownies topped with seasonal decorations

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Christmas Brownies are a fudgy, chocolatey delight that embodies the warmth and spirit of the holiday season. These rich, chewy treats are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of pantry staples. Their enticing aroma fills your kitchen, while the glossy chocolate topping adds a festive touch, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in by the fire. With their comforting flavors and simple preparation, these brownies are a seasonal indulgence you won’t want to miss.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll want to whip up these Christmas Brownies for family gatherings, holiday parties, or even as a comforting treat during chilly winter nights. They boast a wonderfully rich chocolate flavor, making them a favorite among both children and adults. Plus, with just a few ingredients and minimal effort, these brownies are incredibly convenient to prepare. Whether you enjoy them on their own or pair them with ice cream or whipped cream, they remain versatile enough to suit every occasion.

Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight

This holiday season, focus on fresh, local ingredients to elevate your baking. The gloss of melted chocolate, the creamy richness of butter, and the sweet fragrance of vanilla all come together to create a delightful sensory experience. Butter adds a silky texture, while the cocoa powder offers deep, dark chocolate notes. Using high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients not only enhances the flavors but also supports local farmers, making your holiday baking even more special. The vibrant colors and comforting aromas of these seasonal ingredients bring joy to both the kitchen and the table.

What You’ll Need

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup chocolate chips or festive sprinkles (for topping)

These staple ingredients come together to create a rich and decadent brownie. If you’re looking for substitutions, consider using coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option or almond flour for a gluten-free twist. The rich texture and flavor profile remain intact, ensuring everyone can enjoy them!

How to Make This Recipe

1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan. This will ensure that your brownies don’t stick and come out perfectly.

2. Melt the Butter
In a large bowl, melt the butter until it’s just liquid. The warm, buttery aroma sets the stage for your brownie batter.

3. Mix in the Sugar
Add the granulated sugar to the melted butter and stir well. This mixture will become creamy as you combine them, creating a lovely smooth base.

4. Incorporate the Eggs
Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition, followed by stirring in the vanilla extract. The batter will thicken, and the sweet vanilla scent will fill your kitchen.

5. Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. This step ensures that all dry ingredients are well-distributed for even baking.

6. Fold Dry into Wet
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be smooth and thick.

7. Pour the Batter
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. The texture should be thick and glossy, promising a fudgy outcome.

8. Add Toppings
Sprinkle chocolate chips or festive sprinkles on top, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal.

9. Bake
Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake for that moist, chewy texture.

10. Cool and Serve
Let the brownies cool before cutting into squares. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature, with a rich, fudgy texture that melts in your mouth.

Step Examples

Prepare the Base
Start with melting your butter in the microwave or on a stove. The irresistible aroma should fill the space, a lovely precursor to what’s to come.

Mix the Ingredients
Once combined, the butter and sugar create a smooth consistency. Stirring in the eggs brings a fluffy texture necessary for that perfect brownie.

Shape or Cook
When pouring the batter into your greased pan, keep it as level as possible. This ensures even baking and beautifully shaped brownies.

Finish or Garnish
Once baked, let them cool to set. A dusting of powdered sugar on top before serving makes for a festive touch.

Serve and Enjoy
Cut into squares and serve. Each bite presents a luscious chocolate flavor, with a beautifully fudgy center!

Essential Tools

Large mixing bowls
Whisk or electric mixer
Baking pan (9×13 inches works best)
Silicone spatula for folding
Measuring cups and spoons

These tools will help streamline your baking process. A quality mixing bowl and an electric mixer can save time, while using a non-stick pan can prevent any sticking.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

These brownies can be made ahead of time and stored for up to a week in an airtight container. To keep them fresh, layer parchment paper between each brownie. If you’d like to freeze them, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and seal in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy!

Perfect Pairings

For a delightful treat, serve these Christmas Brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Complement them with a rich, steaming cup of holiday spiced coffee or a festive hot cocoa topped with marshmallows. The visual presentation transforms any table into a holiday feast.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: ~180 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 14 g

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Dough Too Dry
If your batter looks crumbly, try adding a splash of milk until it reaches a moist consistency.

Chocolate Coating Breaks
To avoid a broken chocolate topping, ensure that the melted chocolate is smooth and warm when applied.

Unevenly Shaped Brownies
For perfectly shaped brownies, utilize a cookie scoop or a knife guide to achieve uniform sizes when cutting.

Pro Tips for Best Results

For added texture, consider mixing in chopped nuts or using dark chocolate for the chocolate chips to enhance richness.
Monitor your brownies closely towards the end of baking to avoid overcooking; they should be set but still soft.

Recipe Variations to Explore

Consider stirring in seasonal flavors like peppermint extract or swirling in some cream cheese for added richness. You could also top with crushed candy canes for a festive crunch or use pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist.

Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info

To make a gluten-free version, swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or vegan butter instead. Always check labels for allergen information and adjust according to dietary restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I add nuts to the brownies?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch.

2. How can I make these brownies more festive?
Try adding festive sprinkles or candy cane pieces on top before baking!

3. Can I use cocoa powder instead of chocolate chips?
While cocoa powder is in the recipe, chocolate chips add extra fudginess.

4. What if my brownies come out too dry?
Next time, check them a few minutes earlier to ensure they’re baked perfectly.

5. Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes, wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container for freezing. Thaw before serving.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Now that you’re all set to create these delicious Christmas Brownies, gather your ingredients and get baking! Share your finished creations or variations with us in the comments, and don’t forget to tag your holiday treats with #ChristmasBrownies on social media. Ready to explore more delightful recipes? Check out our festive dessert category to inspire your next baking adventure!