These classic Christmas Brownies are the perfect treat for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, and cozy nights by the fire. Rich, fudgy, and irresistibly chocolatey, this brownie recipe is designed for bakers who want a reliable, crowd-pleasing dessert that feels extra special for the season. Whether you decorate them with crushed peppermint, dust them with powdered sugar “snow,” or serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, these brownies bring a festive touch to any Christmas celebration.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25–30 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Servings: 16
- Yield: One 9x9-inch pan of brownies
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Optional holiday add-ins:
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup crushed candy canes
- Festive sprinkles
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
- Preheat your oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. - Melt the butter
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly before adding other ingredients. - Mix wet ingredients
Stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk until fully combined and smooth. - Add dry ingredients
Add the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gently fold until the batter is just combined — do not overmix or the brownies may become cakey. - Add Christmas mix-ins (optional but encouraged!)
Fold in chocolate chips or crushed candy canes for a festive flair. - Bake the brownies
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter). - Cool before slicing
Allow the brownies to cool for at least 20 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar “snow” or add holiday sprinkles before cutting.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated
- Calories: 155
- Total Fat: 6.5g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 70mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 23g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Total Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 2g
Conclusion
These Christmas Brownies bring together everything we love about the holidays — warmth, sweetness, and a little festive magic. They’re simple to make, easy to decorate, and endlessly adaptable. Add crushed peppermint for a wintry crunch, swirl in white chocolate, or drizzle with caramel to make them your own. No matter how you serve them, these brownies will quickly become a cherished holiday tradition. Enjoy them fresh from the oven with loved ones, or wrap them up as a thoughtful homemade gift for the season!
