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Christmas Present Brownies

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These festive brownies are rich, fudgy, and decorated to look like holiday presents, making them perfect for gifting or sharing at parties. Easy to make and customizable, they deliver nostalgic comfort and holiday cheer with every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (175 g) semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bar, melted
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2/3 cup (85 g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tbsp milk or water (dairy-free milk for vegan option)
  • Food coloring gels (red, green, gold, etc.)
  • Festive sprinkles (stars, pearls, holiday shapes)
  • Thin licorice ropes or colored icing tubes (for ribbon effect)
  • Optional: 1/2 cup (75 g) chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
  • Optional: Crushed peppermint candies for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy lifting.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine butter and chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt over low heat on the stovetop.
  3. Let the chocolate mixture cool slightly, then whisk in granulated sugar until combined. Add eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
  5. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Fold in optional add-ins like nuts or peppermint if desired.
  7. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and smooth the top. Tap the pan gently to release air bubbles.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs. Do not overbake.
  9. Transfer pan to a wire rack and let brownies cool completely before decorating.
  10. Mix powdered sugar with milk or water to make a thick icing. Divide and color as desired.
  11. Cut cooled brownies into squares (16 small or 9 large). Pipe colored icing across each brownie to mimic a ribbon, then add sprinkles and edible decorations. Use licorice ropes or colored icing tubes to form a bow.

Notes

For clean cuts, chill brownies in the fridge for 30 minutes before slicing and wipe the knife between cuts. Brownies taste even better the next day as flavors deepen. Customize decorations and flavors to suit your preferences. For gluten-free or vegan options, use suggested substitutions. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas brownies, holiday dessert, edible gifts, festive baking, chocolate brownies, homemade brownies, decorated brownies, gift brownies

Find it online: https://lucydishes.com/christmas-present-brownies-easy-homemade-recipe-for-festive-gifts/