Indulge in the Holidays: Extra Special Christmas Brownies to Dazzle Your Taste Buds!
Quick Overview
Recipe Rating: ★★★★★ (500+ Reviews)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: Serves 12
Calories: 250 kcal per brownie
Introduction
The holiday season is a time for gathering with loved ones, and what better way to indulge than with a rich, flavorful dessert? These Extra Special Christmas Brownies are a cherished family recipe that I look forward to every December. With festive sprinkles and a desert-like fudge flavor, these brownies are perfect for your holiday parties or cozy nights in by the fire. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these brownies are a delectable way to celebrate the joy of the season. Plus, with simple ingredients and quick prep time, they fit seamlessly into your holiday schedule!
Ingredients List
- Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick)
- Granulated Sugar: 1 cup
- Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup, packed
- Eggs: 2 large
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: 1/2 cup
- Baking Powder: 1/4 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Chocolate Chips: 1 cup (dark or semi-sweet)
- Festive Sprinkles: 1/4 cup (optional)
Optional Substitutions:
- For a gluten-free option, replace all-purpose Flour with a gluten-free Flour blend.
- For a vegan version, substitute the butter with coconut oil, and use flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water).
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×9 inch Baking pan with parchment paper.
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Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Remove from heat once fully melted.
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Mix Sugars: Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until combined.
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Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the Flour, cocoa powder, Baking powder, and salt.
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Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry mixture to the chocolate mixture, stirring until just combined.
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Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips and sprinkles, if using.
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Pour and Spread: Pour the batter into the prepared Baking pan, spreading it evenly.
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Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
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Cool and Serve: Allow brownies to cool before cutting into squares. Enjoy with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish!
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
Tips and Tricks Section
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to tough brownies. Mix just until incorporated.
- Storage Tip: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezing: These brownies freeze wonderfully! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Macronutrients:
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Micronutrients:
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
Recipe Notes
- Tip for cutting clean squares: Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat edges.
- Variations: Add nuts or dried fruit for additional flavors and textures.
FAQs
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How do I store leftovers? Store covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
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Can I use different types of chocolate? Yes! Feel free to experiment with milk chocolate, white chocolate, or any combination of your favorite chocolates.
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How can I reheat brownies? Warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a gooey experience.
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Can I make these brownies ahead of time? Absolutely, they can be baked a day in advance and stored properly.
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What can I use instead of eggs? Flax or chia seeds mixed with water work great as an egg substitute in vegan diets.
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Recipe Card: Extra Special Christmas Brownies
Servings: 12
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick)
- Granulated Sugar: 1 cup
- Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup, packed
- Eggs: 2 large
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: 1/2 cup
- Baking Powder: 1/4 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Chocolate Chips: 1 cup (dark or semi-sweet)
- Festive Sprinkles: 1/4 cup (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×9 inch pan.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat.
- Stir in granulated and brown sugar.
- Add eggs and vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, whisk Flour, cocoa, Baking powder, and salt.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures.
- Fold in chocolate chips and sprinkles.
- Pour into the pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Let cool before cutting into squares.
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