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Easy Christmas Present Brownies

Easy Christmas Present Brownies: Fudgy Festive Delights

Easy Christmas Present Brownies are delightful homemade treats with a fudgy center, perfect for spreading holiday cheer.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 3 hours
Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 16 squares
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Brownies
  • 2 cups unsalted butter Adds richness and moisture; using it at room temperature ensures it blends perfectly.
  • 2 cups granulated sugar Provides sweetness and structure; feel free to substitute with lighter sugars for a unique flavor.
  • 4 large eggs Binds the ingredients while adding moisture; cold eggs may lead to an uneven batter.
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract Enhances flavor; always opt for pure rather than imitation for the best taste.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Provides structure; you can replace it with gluten-free flour if needed.
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Gives the brownies their signature chocolate flavor; dark cocoa enhances the chocolatey experience.
  • 0.5 tsp baking powder Helps with leavening, giving the brownies a light texture.
  • 0.25 tsp fine sea salt Balances the sweetness and rounds out the flavor.
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips Optional; increases fudginess; consider substituting with milk or dark chocolate per your taste.
For the Frosting
  • 4-5 cups powdered sugar Sweetens and thickens the frosting; remember to sift to avoid lumps.
  • 3-5 tbsp heavy cream or milk Adjusts the frosting's consistency; use milk for a lighter texture.
  • various gel food coloring Perfect for festive decoration; gel is best for vibrant colors without affecting consistency.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • 8x8 or 9x9 inch baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-By-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 or 9x9 inch pan with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, melt 2 cups of unsalted butter and combine it with 2 cups of granulated sugar, 4 room temperature eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Fold in the melted butter along with 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of fine sea salt. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted shows moist crumbs. Allow to cool for 2-3 hours.
  2. In a clean mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter on medium speed until fluffy. Gradually mix in 4-5 cups of sifted powdered sugar, then add 3-5 tablespoons of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth and airy, adjusting the cream for your preferred consistency. Color the frosting with gel food coloring.
  3. Once your brownies are completely cooled, spread an even layer of the buttercream frosting over the top. Chill them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes until the frosting firms up. Pipe melted candy melts in ribbon shapes across the frosting and sprinkle festive decorations like edible glitter.
  4. Once decorated and chilled, cut the brownies into squares or rectangles. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Optionally, freeze them for 1-2 months.

Nutrition

Serving: 1squareCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 400IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing.

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