Name: Frosted Christmas Brownies That Bring Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (melted; adds richness and moisture.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (sweetens and helps achieve a fudgy texture.); 2 large Eggs (binds ingredients together and adds moisture.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (enhances chocolate flavor.); 1/3 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (provides a deep chocolate flavor.); 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour (gives structure to the brownies.); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (balances sweetness and enhances flavor.); 1/4 teaspoon Baking Powder (helps brownies rise slightly.); 3 tablespoons Softened Unsalted Butter (used in frosting for creaminess.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (sweetens and thickens frosting.); 1-2 tablespoons Milk (adjusts frosting consistency.); 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (enhances frosting flavor.); Red and Green Food Coloring (provides festive color for decoration.); Holiday Sprinkles (adds visual appeal and festive cheer.)

The aroma of rich chocolate wafting through the air always stirs a joyful sense of nostalgia in me. This holiday season, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Frosted Christmas Brownies, a delightful treat that’s as easy to whip up as it is to savor. With just 45 minutes of prep time, these brownies are a quick win for busy bakers looking to impress family and friends. Each fudgy bite is smothered in creamy vanilla frosting and topped with jolly holiday sprinkles, making them the perfect festive centerpiece for any gathering. Not only do they offer that warm, homemade comfort we crave, but they’re sure to spread cheer and smiles across your holiday table. Are you ready to create a sweet memory this season? Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why Choose Frosted Christmas Brownies?

Ease of Preparation: These brownies can be made in just 45 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute holiday treats.

Decadent Flavor: Each bite offers a rich, fudgy chocolate experience, balanced beautifully by the creamy vanilla frosting.

Festive Appeal: Adorned with colorful sprinkles, these brownies are not only delicious but also a visual delight, sure to charm your guests.

Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with nuts or flavored extracts, perfect for those looking to add a personal twist.

Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Whether at family gatherings or festive parties, expect smiles and requests for seconds when you serve these delightful brownies.

For more delicious recipes like this, check out my Banana Bread Brownies, which are also a hit for any occasion!

Frosted Christmas Brownies Ingredients

• Perfect for a festive baking session!

For the Brownies

Unsalted Butter – 1/2 cup, melted; adds richness and moisture. Substitute with margarine if needed.
Granulated Sugar – 1 cup; sweetens and helps achieve a fudgy texture. Brown sugar may enhance flavor profile.
Large Eggs – 2; binds ingredients together and adds moisture.
Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon; enhances chocolate flavor. Use pure vanilla for best results.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – 1/3 cup; provides a deep chocolate flavor. Can substitute with Dutch-process cocoa for a milder taste.
All-Purpose Flour – 1/2 cup; gives structure to the brownies. Gluten-free flour can be used for gluten-free options.
Salt – 1/4 teaspoon; balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Baking Powder – 1/4 teaspoon; helps brownies rise slightly for a less dense texture.

For the Frosting

Softened Unsalted Butter – 3 tablespoons; used in frosting for creaminess.
Powdered Sugar – 1 cup; sweetens and thickens frosting.
Milk – 1-2 tablespoons; adjusts frosting consistency. Any milk alternative will work.
Vanilla Extract – 1/2 teaspoon; enhances frosting flavor.

For Decoration

Red and Green Food Coloring; provides festive color for decoration.
Holiday Sprinkles; adds visual appeal and festive cheer.

Let these Frosted Christmas Brownies bring a magical touch to your holiday gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Frosted Christmas Brownies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly with butter or lining it with parchment paper. This step ensures that the Frosted Christmas Brownies will come out easily and maintain their perfect shape. Setting the right temperature helps achieve that fudgy texture we’re aiming for.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar, stirring until the mixture is well-blended and smooth. This typically takes about 1 to 2 minutes with a whisk or wooden spoon. The goal is to achieve a glossy mixture that indicates the sugar is beginning to dissolve and meld with the butter.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add in the large eggs, one at a time, and stir in the vanilla extract. Beat the mixture vigorously for an additional 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth and creamy. The transformation during this step enriches the base of your Frosted Christmas Brownies, providing a moist and delicious foundation for that rich chocolate flavor.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Sift together the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir this dry mixture into the wet ingredients with a spatula until just combined, taking care not to overmix. This crucial moment should result in a thick batter; the cocoa aroma will fill your kitchen, tempting you for a taste before baking!

Step 5: Pour the Batter
Transfer the brownie batter into the prepared 8×8-inch pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top. It’s important to ensure the layers are level for even cooking. This will allow the brownies to bake uniformly, resulting in fudgy centers with perfectly set edges, contributing to their irresistible texture.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the brownies in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end—look for a toothpick inserted into the center to come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. The edges should be firm while the center remains soft, promising that decadent bite when you enjoy your Frosted Christmas Brownies.

Step 7: Cool Completely
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. This may take about 30 minutes. Cooling is vital to prevent the frosting from melting when applied, preserving that delightful, creamy layer atop your brownies. Patience pays off as the magic of flavors deepens during this time.

Step 8: Prepare the Frosting
In a separate bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter using a mixer until it’s creamy and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the milk, until you achieve a spreadable consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract, letting the luscious frosting come together perfectly, ready to elevate your Frosted Christmas Brownies.

Step 9: Color the Frosting
Divide the frosting into several bowls and add red and green food coloring to create a festive palette. Mix until the colors are vibrant, and each bowl resembles the holiday spirit. This is where the fun begins, adding a personal touch that makes your Frosted Christmas Brownies visually appealing and irresistible to everyone.

Step 10: Frost and Decorate
Generously spread the beautifully colored frosting over the cooled brownies, alternating colors for a cheerful look. Top it off with a sprinkle of holiday sprinkles for that extra festive touch. This step transforms your brownies from delicious to a joyful centerpiece for your holiday table, tantalizing both the eyes and taste buds.

Step 11: Slice and Serve
Once decorated, use a sharp knife to cut the brownies into squares, creating perfect bite-sized pieces that guests can enjoy. Serve them on a festive platter and watch your family and friends light up as they take their first bite of these delightful Frosted Christmas Brownies, each piece bursting with flavor and holiday cheer.

Frosted Christmas Brownies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing your brownies in delightful ways that excite your taste buds!

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the fudgy texture. The nuttiness complements the chocolate, creating a rich and homey flavor profile.
Minty Twist: Substitute holiday sprinkles with crushed candy canes for a festive mint flavor. The cool minty crunch is perfect for the holiday season and adds a refreshing touch to each bite.
Almond Flavor: Experiment with flavored extracts, like almond or peppermint, in the frosting for a unique taste. A hint of almond extract can elevate the creamy frosting into a nostalgic treat reminiscent of holiday treats from childhood.
Chocolate Ganache: Swap the vanilla frosting for a rich chocolate ganache for an indulgent twist. Simply melt chocolate with heavy cream, stirring until smooth, then pour over your cooled brownies for an extra layer of decadence.
Spicy Heat: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brownie batter. The warmth will surprise and delight, bringing a fun twist to your holiday dessert spread.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut or almond milk instead of regular milk in the frosting. This easily makes your brownies dairy-free while adding a subtle flavor that works well with the chocolatey goodness.
Seasonal Toppings: Celebrate the season by topping your brownies with dried cranberries or chopped orange zest. Both add a festive touch that complements the chocolate while offering a burst of color and flavor.
Double Chocolate: For true chocolate lovers, incorporate chocolate chips into the brownie batter. This adds melty pockets of chocolate that enhance the fudgy texture and makes every bite even more heavenly.

These delightful variations will ensure your Frosted Christmas Brownies not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on your holiday table! For another sweet creation, check out my Banana Bread Brownies that are equally easy to make and perfect for festive gatherings.

Make Ahead Options

These Frosted Christmas Brownies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, especially during the bustling holiday season! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly and refrigerate. Bake the brownies the same day you plan to frost them for best taste. The frosting can also be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days—just remember to bring it to room temperature and re-whip before spreading. For optimal quality, frost the brownies just before serving to maintain the creamy texture and vibrant colors. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll enjoy delicious, festive treats without the stress!

Expert Tips for Frosted Christmas Brownies

Cool Before Frosting: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before adding frosting to prevent it from melting and sliding off.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the brownies are done; it should come out with moist crumbs—not wet batter. Overbaking can lead to dry brownies.
Customize Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add flavored extracts, like almond or peppermint, to the frosting to create a unique twist on your Frosted Christmas Brownies.
Storage Options: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months for freshness.
Presentation Matters: Use vibrant holiday sprinkles and colored frosting to elevate the festive look of your brownies, ensuring they’re as delightful to the eyes as to the taste buds.

What to Serve with Frosted Christmas Brownies

Pairing these delightful treats with delicious complements can elevate your holiday dessert table into a festive celebration.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a delightful contrast to the fudgy brownies, making every bite a perfect blend of warmth and coolness.
Peppermint Hot Cocoa: The rich chocolate flavors of the brownies pair beautifully with the soothing warmth of peppermint hot cocoa, enhancing the holiday spirit.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider brings together the sweet and spicy notes that perfectly balance the richness of the brownies.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: For a refreshing contrast, serve luscious, chocolate-dipped strawberries. Their juicy sweetness complements the dense, fudgy texture of the brownies and adds a pop of color.
Christmas Fruitcake: The dense, spiced flavors and chewy texture of fruitcake provide a delightful contrast to the soft and sweet brownies, creating an inviting array of flavors.
Holiday Cheesecake: A slice of creamy holiday cheesecake can add a delightful layer of richness, making for an indulgent dessert spread that keeps festivities deliciously diverse.
Nutty Coffee: Offering a warm, nutty brew alongside your brownies enhances the chocolate flavor, giving your guests a cozy vibe while enjoying their treats.
Gingerbread Cookies: These spiced cookies not only match the festive theme but also add a crunchy texture that pairs well with the softness of brownies, creating a well-rounded dessert plate.

Storage Tips for Frosted Christmas Brownies

Room Temperature: Keep the brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This preserves their rich texture and flavor, making them perfect for last-minute indulgences.

Fridge: If storing longer, refrigerate the brownies for up to a week. Just make sure to wrap them to prevent drying out. Always bring to room temperature before serving for the best taste!

Freezer: For maximum freshness, freeze individual brownie squares for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To enjoy warm brownies later, simply microwave for about 10-15 seconds in a microwave-safe dish. This helps recapture that fudgy goodness of your Frosted Christmas Brownies.

Frosted Christmas Brownies Recipe FAQs

What kind of chocolate is best for Frosted Christmas Brownies?
Absolutely! The best choice is unsweetened cocoa powder, which provides a rich chocolate flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can substitute it with Dutch-process cocoa powder. This creamy, smooth alternative will still deliver that delicious chocolatey goodness you’re after!

How should I store leftover brownies?
Very simply! Store your Frosted Christmas Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For extended freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week; just remember to wrap them well to prevent them from drying out. Bringing them to room temperature before serving enhances their delicious flavor.

Can I freeze Frosted Christmas Brownies?
Definitely! To freeze, wrap each brownie square tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and store in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just let them thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for that fresh-baked feel!

What if my brownies come out too dry?
Don’t worry! If your brownies turn out dry, it might be due to overbaking. Make sure to keep a close eye on them in the oven, testing for doneness with a toothpick after 20 minutes. If they’re overcooked, try serving them warm with a scoop of ice cream or custard to add moisture back into each fudgy bite!

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, which is readily available in most grocery stores. Just ensure it’s a blend made for baking, and you’ll maintain that delicious, fudgy texture everyone loves while catering to gluten-free diets!

How long do Frosted Christmas Brownies last in the fridge?
For longevity, Frosted Christmas Brownies can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, as long as they are sealed properly. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature for the most enjoyable texture and taste when you’re ready to serve!