Name: Christmas Ornament Brownies: Fun Holiday Treats to Make Together
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 box Fudge Brownie Mix (Choose your favorite brand); 2 large Eggs (Essential for binding and moisture); 1/4 cup Water (Substitute with milk for creamier results); 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (Can use melted butter for a different flavor); 1 cup Mini Candy Canes (Great for minty flavor and decoration); 1 cup Frosting (Assorted colors for decorating; homemade or store-bought); 1 package Decorating Icing (Red tubes) (For intricate designs); 1 cup M&Ms (For a pop of color and crunch); 1/2 cup Sprinkles (Holiday-themed sprinkles for decoration)

As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of rich chocolate wafting through the air, I couldn’t help but feel the excitement of the holiday season wrapping around me. These Christmas Ornament Brownies are my go-to festive treat, bringing joy not just in their taste but in their whimsical presentation. They’re incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for inviting little hands to join in on the fun. Plus, they’re a guaranteed hit at any holiday gathering, adding a splash of color and creativity to your dessert table. In just a few simple steps, you can transform ordinary brownies into delightful ornaments that will spark smiles and create lasting memories. Ready to make your holidays a little sweeter? Let’s dive in!

Why Are These Brownies So Special?

Kid-Friendly Fun: These Christmas Ornament Brownies are perfect for involving the little ones. With minimal steps and vibrant decorations, kids will love getting creative in the kitchen!

Quick and Easy: Designed for efficiency, this recipe takes hardly any time at all. You can whip up these festive treats and still have time to relax with a cup of hot cocoa.

Colorful Presentation: The mix of colorful frosting and candy toppings not only looks delightful but also adds a whimsical touch that’s sure to impress guests at any holiday party.

Customizable Options: Want to make them your own? Swap out candies or frosting for various flavors to please even the pickiest eaters. Check out our Banana Bread Brownies for more creative ideas!

Memorable Moments: These brownies are more than a treat; they create lasting memories in the kitchen as families come together to bake and decorate. Spread some holiday cheer with these festive delights!

Christmas Ornament Brownie Ingredients

For the Brownie Batter
• Fudge Brownie Mix – This is the heart of your brownies, providing that rich flavor; feel free to choose your favorite brand.
• Eggs – Essential for binding and moisture; large eggs work best for this recipe.
• Water – Activates the brownie mix; substitute with milk for creamier results.
• Vegetable Oil – Ensures a moist texture; melted butter can be used for a different flavor profile.
For the Festive Toppings
• Mini Candy Canes – Great for minty flavor and decoration; you can use other colorful candies as alternatives.
• Frosting – Pick assorted colors for decorating; whether homemade or store-bought is up to you!
• Decorating Icing (Red tubes) – Ideal for intricate designs; melted chocolate makes a tasty alternative.
• M&Ms – Perfect for adding a pop of color and crunch; chocolate chips can easily substitute.
• Sprinkles – Use any holiday-themed sprinkles to amp up the fun on your brownies!

Let’s get ready to turn ordinary brownies into delightful Christmas Ornament Brownies that will sparkle at your holiday celebrations!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Ornament Brownies

Step 1: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the fudge brownie mix, large eggs, water, and vegetable oil as per the package instructions. Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and glossy, with no lumps remaining. This should take about 2-3 minutes of steady mixing. Set your batter aside as you prepare to transform it into delightful Christmas Ornament Brownies.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Pan
Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick foil, allowing some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Optional: give the foil a light spray with cooking oil to ensure the brownies don’t stick. This step is crucial for clean edges and makes it easier to lift the brownies out after baking.

Step 3: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly to ensure even baking. Place your pan in a preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking!

Step 4: Cool Completely
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the brownies to a wire rack to cool completely, which should take an additional 20-30 minutes. If you’re short on time, pop them into the freezer to quick-set for about 30 minutes.

Step 5: Cut Out Ornaments
When the brownies are fully cooled, use a round cookie cutter to cut out circles from the brownies. You can cut as many as possible, and any scraps can be snacked on as a treat. Each round will become a festive ornament, so take care to get the most out of your delicious brownie creation!

Step 6: Decorate with Fun Toppings
Insert mini candy canes into the center of each brownie cut-out to create adorable hanging ornaments. Then, get creative and decorate with colorful frosting around the edges. Use the decorating icing for detailed designs and sprinkle M&Ms and festive sprinkles on top for that holiday cheer. Let your imagination run wild with the gorgeous toppings!

What to Serve with Christmas Ornament Brownies?

These delightful brownies are the perfect centerpiece for your festive table, bringing sweetness and joy to every gathering.

Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of cocoa creates a cozy pairing, perfect for sipping alongside your chocolatey treats.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it adds a rich, creamy texture that complements the fudgy brownies beautifully.
Peppermint Bark: This festive treat brings a refreshing crunch, enhancing the holiday spirit with its minty flavor and sweet chocolate.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla balances the richness of the brownies, providing a divine contrast that’s hard to resist.

The combination of these elements offers a delightful experience. They create a perfect harmony of flavors, leaving everyone at the table excited for more!

Holiday Punch: A light, fruity drink adds spark to your dessert spread, mingling perfectly with the sweet flavors of the brownies.
Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit adds a refreshing element, cutting through the richness with its vibrant flavors and colorful appearance.
Gingerbread Cookies: These classic holiday treats add warmth and spice, creating a wonderful contrast to your sweet brownies.
Festive Cheesecake: For a more decadent option, serve mini cheesecake bites topped with fruit—its creamy texture pairs wonderfully with chocolate.

With these delightful accompaniments, your Christmas Ornament Brownies will shine even brighter, bringing smiles and warmth to the holiday celebrations!

Christmas Ornament Brownies: Customization Galore

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you give these festive brownies your own delicious twist!

Dairy-Free: Use almond milk instead of water and coconut oil instead of vegetable oil to keep it dairy-free while maintaining moisture.
Minty Variation: Swap mini candy canes for peppermint extract mixed into the brownie batter for a refreshing kick. The warmth of chocolate blends beautifully with that cool mint flavor!
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free brownie mix to make this recipe accessible for everyone. Your gluten-sensitive friends will appreciate the thoughtful touch!
Nutty Crunch: Replace M&Ms with chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and depth of flavor. Pairing the chocolatey taste with nuts creates a lovely texture contrast.
Chocolate Lovers: Try adding chocolate chips to the brownie batter for a double chocolate experience. What could be better than fudgy brownies bursting with even more chocolate goodness?
Fruity Fun: Add a layer of fruit preserves in the center of the brownies before baking, like raspberry or cherry, for a sweet surprise. The fruity flavor harmonizes with rich chocolate for an extraordinary dessert!
Elegant Touch: Use edible glitter to enhance the festive look. Simply sprinkle a little over the decorated brownies for an enchanting sparkle that will wow your guests!
Custom Treats: For another fun baking experience, I recommend trying these delightful Banana Bread Brownies that take banana bread to scrumptious brownie heights!

Embrace the spirit of the holidays by mixing and matching these ideas until your heart is happy!

Storage Tips for Christmas Ornament Brownies

Room Temperature: Store decorated brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.

Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep the brownies covered in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow to come to room temperature before serving to revitalize the frosting and decorations.

Freezer: If you want to make them ahead of time, freeze the plain brownie layers (without decorations) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before decorating.

Reheating: If brownies seem dense after refrigeration, briefly warm them in the microwave (10-15 seconds) for a soft, gooey chocolate treat while preserving the charm of these Christmas Ornament Brownies.

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Ornament Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients and storing it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Also, you can bake the brownies a day ahead, allowing them to cool completely before cutting and decorating. Just ensure they’re covered to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply cut out the ornaments and decorate them with candy canes, frosting, and sprinkles right before the gathering. This way, you deliver just as delicious treats with minimal last-minute effort, and everyone can enjoy a festive dessert that looks stunning on your holiday table!

Expert Tips for Christmas Ornament Brownies

Cool Down First: Make sure the brownies are completely cooled before cutting them. This prevents them from crumbling and helps maintain that beautiful ornament shape.
Size Matters: Use a smaller cookie cutter to create more ornaments or try different shapes. It’s a fun way to vary the presentation, especially for holiday gatherings!
Watch the Decor: Be cautious when decorating; if refrigerated, condensation can affect the appearance of your icing and decorations. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Frosting Fun: Don’t be afraid to mix it up! Use different colored frostings or various candies to personalize your Christmas Ornament Brownies; creativity is key!
Treat Scraps: Remember to save any brownie scraps! These can be enjoyed as a delicious snack, minimizing waste while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Storage Solutions: Keep the decorated brownies covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or pop them in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life. Enjoy these delightful treats at your holiday celebrations!

Christmas Ornament Brownies Recipe FAQs

What type of brownie mix should I use?
You can use any brand of fudge brownie mix that you prefer! Look for one that promises a rich chocolate flavor and gooey texture. For a little fun, even try experimenting with different flavors like caramel or peanut butter for a twist.

How should I store my Christmas Ornament Brownies?
For best results, keep the decorated brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re planning on keeping them for longer, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. When ready to serve from the fridge, allow them to come to room temperature first to refresh their delightful appearance.

Can I freeze the brownies for later?
Absolutely! To freeze your Christmas Ornament Brownies, first, cut them into circles as directed but do not decorate yet. Wrap each brownie in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and then have fun adding your festive decorations!

What if my brownies are too crumbly when I cut them?
If your brownies are falling apart, it might be because they weren’t cooled completely before cutting. Always ensure they cool fully to maintain their structure. If they seem too crumbly even when cooled, consider adding a little more moisture next time – a tablespoon of oil or an extra egg can work wonders in keeping the brownie dense and luscious.

Are these brownies safe for kids with nut allergies?
Check the ingredients in the brownie mix and any toppings you plan to use. Many fudge brownie mixes are nut-free, but always read labels to be sure. You can substitute M&Ms with nut-free chocolate chips or other candies to create a safe treat for allergy-sensitive kiddos.

Can I use different decorations for the brownies?
Very much so! Feel free to use alternate candies like gummy bears, chocolate-covered pretzels, or colorful marshmallows to create your unique designs. Get creative with your frosting colors and sprinkles, too! The more the merrier when it comes to decorating these Christmas Ornament Brownies!