Name: Christmas Present Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional); Red candy melts; Green candy melts; White candy melts; Mini candy bows or holiday sprinkles (optional)

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter

2 cups granulated sugar

4 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

½ teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional for extra fudginess)

Red, green, and white candy melts (for decoration)

Mini candy bows or holiday sprinkles (optional but festive)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides for easy removal. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat, then whisk in the sugar until smooth and shiny. Let cool slightly before whisking in the eggs and vanilla extract continuously until the mixture is thick and glossy.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula, stirring until smooth and well combined without overmixing. If desired, fold in the chocolate chips for extra gooeyness.

Step 3: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking as the brownies will continue to cook after removal. Let cool completely in the pan.

Step 4: Lift the cooled brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper and place on a cutting board. Cut into even squares to resemble presents. Melt the red, green, and white candy melts separately (microwaving in 15-second bursts and stirring in between) until smooth. Drizzle or pipe the candy melts over each brownie in crisscross lines to mimic ribbons. Top with mini candy bows or festive sprinkles if using.

Step 5: Let the candy decorations set at room temperature or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to harden them faster. Arrange the decorated brownies on a platter or pack in a gift box lined with parchment paper for a delightful holiday treat.

Tips & Variations

For extra fudgy brownies, add an extra ¼ cup of melted butter or use all chocolate chips in the batter.

Use different colored candy melts to match your holiday theme or experiment with white chocolate and food coloring.

Swap mini candy bows for crushed peppermint candies or edible glitter for a different festive look.

Storage

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If decorated with candy melts, avoid stacking them to keep decorations intact. Refrigerate if your home is warm; bring to room temperature before serving. You can also freeze undecorated brownies for up to 3 months and decorate after thawing.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for best texture.

How do I prevent the candy melts from seizing?

Microwave the candy melts in short bursts, stirring often. Avoid adding water or steam, and use a dry bowl and utensils to keep the candy smooth and meltable.