Christmas Brownies

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Author: Lora
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Introduction to Christmas Brownies

Christmas is that magical time of the year when everything sparkles—lights, ornaments, and, of course, delicious treats!  As a passionate home cook, my heart races with excitement when the holiday season approaches. And what could be better than the fudgy goodness of Christmas Brownies? These festive delights are a quick solution for busy days and a sure way to impress family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just craving something sweet, these brownies infused with holiday spirit will shine on your dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Brownies

If you’re juggling work, kids, and all the holiday preparations, these Christmas Brownies are a lifesaver! They’re so easy to whip up, taking just about 15 minutes of your precious time. Plus, the rich chocolate flavor coupled with delightful festive colors makes these treats irresistible. Trust me, one bite will transport you to a winter wonderland. Perfect for any occasion, you’ll be the star of the holiday dessert table!

Ingredients for Christmas Brownies

To create the most delightful Christmas Brownies, you’ll need some staple ingredients that come together to form a rich, fudgy base. Let’s break them down:

  • Unsalted Butter: This creamy delight gives the brownies that moist, rich texture. You can substitute it with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
  • Unsweetened Baking Chocolate: Make sure it’s coarsely chopped for even melting. Dark chocolate lovers might opt for bittersweet chocolate instead.
  • Granulated Sugar: The sweet backbone! It adds not only sweetness but helps create that beautiful crust on top. You can use coconut sugar for a slightly healthier option.
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This amplifies the chocolate flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping in a flavored cocoa powder, like peppermint!
  • Large Eggs: They bind everything together and create that fudgy texture we all love. If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try flaxseed meal mixed with water.
  • Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla adds depth to the flavor. For a twist, consider using almond extract or even orange zest for that holiday flair!
  • Salt: Just a pinch is all you need. It enhances the chocolate richness! Feel free to use sea salt for a little crunchy finish.
  • All-Purpose Flour: This is what gives structure to the brownies. For gluten-free options, a flour blend works well.
  • Christmas M&Ms: These colorful candies bring that festive spirit and a delightful crunch! You can replace them with your favorite chocolate chips if you prefer.
  • Christmas Sprinkles: They are the finishing touch of whimsy and celebration. Sprinkle some on top for that Instagram-worthy look!

I’ve included exact measurements at the bottom of the article for your handy reference when you’re ready to bake these scrumptious Christmas Brownies.

How to Make Christmas Brownies

Making Christmas Brownies is like wrapping a hug in chocolate! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll create a batch that brightens any holiday gathering. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial for baking those brownies to perfection. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13″ pan. Line it with aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. Spray it liberally with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your brownies release smoothly.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Chocolate

In a large bowl, combine the unsalted butter and chopped baking chocolate. Microwave them together on high for about 1 minute. Take them out, and give it a quick stir. Return to the microwave for additional 30-second bursts until everything is melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat; burnt chocolate is not what we want. The perfect melted mixture should be glossy and irresistible!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now that your chocolate mixture is ready, stir in the granulated sugar. Then, crack in those large eggs, and pour in the vanilla extract, salt, and cocoa powder. Mix until it’s well combined and smooth. You want the batter to feel like a silky dream. A good rule of thumb is to use a spatula for scraping down the sides and bottom to capture every bit of goodness.

Step 4: Add Flour and Prepare for Baking

Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined. It’s important not to overmix, as this could lead to cake-like brownies. You want them to stay fudgy! Once it’s mixed, pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Now, sprinkle the Christmas M&Ms and festive sprinkles on top. Trust me, this warm, colorful touch instantly elevates your brownies.

Step 5: Bake the Brownies

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 35 minutes. Start checking for doneness at the 25-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. Overbaking can dry them out, and we simply cannot have that!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, lift them out using the foil edges for easy slicing. Once they’re cool, cut them into squares, and serve! These decadent treats are best enjoyed with loved ones, paired with a warm cup of cocoa, or simply on their own.

Tips for Success

  • For extra fudginess, underbake your brownies slightly. Aim for gooey and delightful!
  • Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation into the batter.
  • Let your brownies cool completely before slicing; this helps maintain their shape.
  • Experiment with different mix-ins like nuts or white chocolate for a unique twist.
  • Don’t skip the sprinkles— they make your brownies festive and fun!

Equipment Needed

  • 9×13″ Baking Pan: A classic choice, but any similar-sized pan works!
  • Large Mixing Bowl: Use glass for easy melting or a sturdy plastic bowl.
  • Spatula: A rubber or silicone spatula allows for easy mixing and scraping.
  • Whisk: Perfect for blending egg and sugar; a fork can do the job as well.
  • Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil: You can use wax paper to line the pan for easier brownie removal.

Variations on Christmas Brownies

  • Mint Chocolate Brownies: Add mint extract to the batter for a refreshing holiday twist!
  • Nutty Brownies: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
  • Peanut Butter Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter into the batter before baking and swirl with a knife for decadence.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a tasty, inclusive treat.
  • Vegan Christmas Brownies: Use flaxseed eggs and coconut oil in place of eggs and butter for a plant-based version.
  • Caramel Brownies: Drizzle caramel sauce on top before baking for a gooey, dessert-like experience.

Serving Suggestions for Christmas Brownies

  • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
  • Pair with peppermint hot chocolate for a cozy winter treat experience.
  • Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
  • Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for holiday flair.
  • Gift them in festive boxes for a sweet token of love at holiday gatherings!

FAQs about Christmas Brownies

I get a lot of questions about my Christmas Brownies, and I’m here to help! Here are some common inquiries I receive that might just answer your burning questions.

Can I make these brownies ahead of time? Absolutely! You can bake them a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This makes them great for last-minute holiday preparations.

How do I store leftover brownies? To maintain freshness, keep your Christmas Brownies in an airtight container. They should last for up to a week—but let’s be honest, they probably won’t last that long!

What if I don’t have Christmas M&Ms? No worries at all! You can use regular chocolate chips, or even snip up some festive candy bars. The spirit of the season shines through with any treat you add.

Can I freeze these brownies? Yes, you can! Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready for a taste of the holidays, let them thaw at room temperature.

What’s the secret to fudgy brownies? To achieve that rich, fudgy texture, make sure not to overbake. Remove them from the oven when a toothpick comes out with just a few crumbs to keep that gooey goodness alive!

Final Thoughts on Christmas Brownies

Baking Christmas Brownies is more than just preparing a sweet treat; it’s about creating joyful memories with family and friends. The delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen, the laughter shared over gooey bites, and the gleam of festive colors evoke the magic of the holiday season. These brownies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also fill your heart with warmth and cheer. So, gather your loved ones, bake a batch, and savor each delightful moment. Trust me, your kitchen will become the heart of the holiday festivities, one fudgy brownie at a time!

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Christmas Brownies


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  • Author: Lora
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 16 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Deliciously festive brownies perfect for Christmas celebrations.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
  • 4 ounces (113g) unsweetened baking chocolate, coarsely chopped
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup (20g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 ⅓ cups (162g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup Christmas M&Ms
  • ¼ cup Christmas Sprinkles

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13″ pan with foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Melt butter and baking chocolate in a large bowl. Heat it on high power for 1 minute then stir, heating in additional 30 second increments until melted and smooth.
  3. Stir in sugar, eggs, vanilla, salt, and cocoa and stir until combined. Stir in flour.
  4. Pour brownie batter into prepared baking pan. Sprinkle with sprinkles and M&Ms.
  5. Bake for 25-35 minutes until a toothpick along the edge comes out with just a few crumbs. This results in very fudgy gooey brownies.
  6. Cool before slicing into bars.

Notes

  • Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
  • These brownies can be topped with additional festive decorations if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 brownie
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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Lora Carter

Welcome to At Recipes Inspired, we believe food speaks a universal language—one of comfort, curiosity, creativity, and connection. Founded by Lora, a devoted home cook and cultural food enthusiast, this blog is your passport to exploring the heart of global cuisine from the warmth of your own kitchen.

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