Introduction

These festive Christmas Present Brownies are rich, fudgy, and perfect for sharing during the holiday season. Decorated to look like little wrapped gifts, they add a fun and delicious touch to any celebration.

The image shows nine square chocolate brownies arranged neatly on a large white plate resting on a white marbled surface. Each brownie has a shiny, cracked top layer, typical of fudgy brownies. On top, colorful icing ribbons are piped to look like gift bows. The bows come in three color combinations: green icing forming full bows on three brownies, red bows with no other color on three brownies, and a mix of white and red icing creating bows on three brownies. The icing ribbons cross the brownies horizontally and vertically, making them look like small wrapped gifts. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 an overhang on the sides to help remove the brownies later. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat and whisk in the sugar until smooth and shiny. Let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Whisk the eggs and vanilla extract into the butter and sugar mixture continuously until thick and glossy.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture with a rubber spatula until smooth. If desired, fold in the chocolate chips for extra gooeyness—avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before decorating.
Step 5: 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 candy melts in separate bowls, microwaving in 15-second bursts and stirring until smooth.
Step 6: Drizzle or pipe the melted candy melts over each brownie in crisscross lines to mimic ribbons. Add mini candy bows or festive sprinkles on top for a holiday touch.
Step 7: Allow the candy decorations to set at room temperature or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to speed up the process. Arrange the brownies on a platter or in a gift box lined with parchment paper for a charming presentation.

Tips & Variations

Try using different colored candy melts to match various holiday themes or seasons.
For an extra fudge layer, add a handful of chopped nuts or swirls of peanut butter before baking.
Use a serrated knife for cleaner cuts when slicing cooled brownies.

Storage

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, warm briefly in the microwave to soften without melting the candy decorations.

How to Serve

The image shows nine square chocolate brownies arranged in a 3x3 grid on a white plate, sitting on a white marbled surface. Each brownie has a shiny, cracked dark brown top. Four brownies are decorated with bright green icing shaped like a bow tied with two loops and two tails crossing in the middle. Three brownies have red icing bows with the same shape, while two brownies have white icing ribbons crossing vertically and horizontally, topped with a red bow in the center. The brownies look moist and dense, with sharp clean edges. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?

Yes, dark chocolate chips work well and offer a richer taste. Adjust the amount if you prefer your brownies less sweet.

How do I prevent the brownies from drying out?

Be careful not to overbake; check doneness a few minutes before the suggested time. Keeping the baking pan covered can also help retain moisture.