Frosted Christmas Brownies

Delight in the festive spirit with these Frosted Christmas Brownies! Rich, fudgy, and topped with a creamy peppermint frosting, they are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. The combination of chocolate and peppermint creates a unique flavor that will please everyone at your table. These brownies are not just a treat; they bring joy and sweetness to your Christmas celebrations!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these brownies are accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Festive Presentation: Topped with vibrant sprinkles, these brownies look as delightful as they taste, making them perfect for holiday parties.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the frosting or add different toppings to make them your own.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 16 servings, these brownies are ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or cookie exchanges.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Frosted Christmas Brownies, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Sifter (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 inch baking pan: This size ensures even baking and the perfect thickness for fudgy brownies.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls helps keep wet and dry ingredients organized for better mixing.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for incorporating ingredients smoothly, especially when mixing wet components.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)

For the Frosting

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
• Red and green sprinkles for decoration

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How to Make Frosted Christmas Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking pan. This prepares the oven for even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Batter

In a medium bowl, mix together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. If desired, add peppermint extract for an extra festive touch.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow them to cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar followed by heavy cream, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Mix until everything is smooth and fluffy.

Step 7: Frost the Brownies

Once cooled, spread the peppermint frosting over the top of your brownies using a spatula.

Step 8: Decorate

Generously sprinkle red and green sprinkles over the frosting to add a festive touch.

Step 9: Cut and Serve

Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy each bite filled with holiday cheer!

How to Serve Frosted Christmas Brownies

Frosted Christmas brownies are not just a delightful dessert; they can also be served in various creative ways to enhance your holiday gatherings. Here are some fun serving suggestions that will make these treats even more festive!

Individual Servings

• Serve each brownie in a decorative cupcake liner for a festive touch.
• Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange the brownies on a large platter alongside other holiday desserts like cookies and cake pops.
• Add seasonal decorations, such as pinecones or ornaments, to create a beautiful centerpiece.

Gift Boxes

• Cut the brownies into small squares and package them in clear gift boxes tied with ribbon.
• Include a festive note for a personal touch when gifting these delicious treats.

Holiday Parties

• Place brownies on the dessert table with labels indicating their flavors.
• Pair them with hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy pairing during holiday gatherings.

How to Perfect Frosted Christmas Brownies

To ensure your frosted Christmas brownies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow butter and eggs to reach room temperature before mixing to ensure better incorporation and texture.
• Do not overmix: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of fudgy ones.
• Check doneness carefully: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with moist crumbs rather than clean. This ensures fudginess.
• Let them cool completely: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and makes for a prettier presentation.
• Experiment with flavors: Add different extracts like almond or orange for unique variations on flavor.
• Store properly: Keep leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to maintain freshness.

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Best Side Dishes for Frosted Christmas Brownies

Pairing side dishes with frosted Christmas brownies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some perfect options that complement these rich treats wonderfully.

1. Peppermint Hot Cocoa: This classic drink pairs perfectly with the chocolatey goodness of your brownies, enhancing their festive flavors.
2. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider provides a comforting contrast to the rich, sweet brownies.
3. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving brownies warm alongside vanilla ice cream creates an indulgent combination that’s hard to resist.
4. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers freshness and balances out the sweetness of the brownies while adding color to your dessert table.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide savory notes that balance the sweetness of frosted brownies, making for an interesting taste experience.
6. Nut Mix: A bowl of mixed nuts adds crunch and complements the soft texture of the brownies while providing additional holiday cheer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Frosted Christmas Brownies can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too vigorously can lead to tough brownies. Stir gently until just combined.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using too much flour or sugar can ruin the texture. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Frosting warm brownies will melt the frosting. Always let them cool completely before adding frosting.
• Using Cold Butter for Frosting: Cold butter won’t blend well, leading to lumps. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature.
• Underbaking or Overbaking: Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter or dry crumbs.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store frosted brownies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days in the fridge.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Frosted Christmas Brownies

• Cut brownies into squares before freezing for easy serving later.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Frosted Christmas Brownies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm brownies for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual squares on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid to warm through gently.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Frosted Christmas Brownies more festive?

You can add different colored sprinkles or edible glitter on top of the frosting to enhance their festive look.

Can I use other extracts instead of peppermint?

Yes, feel free to substitute peppermint extract with vanilla or almond extract for a different flavor profile.

How long do Frosted Christmas Brownies last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, they will remain fresh for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze these brownies after frosting?

Absolutely! Just ensure they are wrapped well and stored in an airtight container. They freeze well for up to 3 months.

What is the best way to cut frosted brownies?

Use a sharp knife coated with cooking spray for clean cuts without tearing the brownies or disturbing the frosting.

Final Thoughts

Frosted Christmas Brownies are a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate flavor with creamy peppermint frosting. This recipe is versatile and allows for various customizations, like different flavors or toppings. Try them out this holiday season and bring joy and sweetness to your celebrations!