Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the holidays, and what better way to celebrate than with a batch of delicious brownies that look like little presents? These Christmas Present Brownies are not only rich and chocolatey but also festive enough to make anyone smile! Topped with colorful decorations, they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends, or even for a sweet holiday treat to enjoy all on your own. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is sure to become a holiday favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- Red and green candy or decorating icing for decoration
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 brownies
Directions and Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure easy removal of your tasty brownies.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in the granulated sugar until the mixture is well-combined and creamy.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Then, add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the fragrant vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter and egg combination, stirring until everything is just combined.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts if you choose to include them, ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter.
- Pour the luscious brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly for consistent baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it—this means your brownies are perfectly fudgy!
- Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- After they are completely cool, cut the brownies into squares. Use your festive red and green candy or decorating icing to create charming designs on top to resemble beautifully wrapped gifts.
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate richness. You could also swap in peppermint extract instead of vanilla for a delightful holiday twist. If you’re planning to share these brownies, feel free to package them in a festive box for a lovely homemade gift!
Cooking Techniques
For the best texture, avoid overmixing the batter once you’ve combined the dry and wet ingredients. This ensures your brownies will be fudgy rather than cakey. Also, be sure to keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time; you’re looking for just the right amount of moistness in that toothpick test!
FAQ
Can I use different types of chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match chocolate chips, using milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate for a more festive look.
How should I store leftover brownies?
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week—or refrigerate them and enjoy the wonderful fudgy texture even longer!
Conclusion
These Christmas Present Brownies are not just a treat; they’re a little slice of joy that encapsulates the spirit of the holiday season. With their rich, chocolatey flavor and festive decorations, they’re sure to make any gathering feel special. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the sweet aroma of baking brownies fill your home—happy baking!