Dessert

Christmas Present Brownies Recipe

ByNoah Steele February 24, 2026February 24, 2026

Introduction

These Christmas Present Brownies bring festive cheer to your holiday table with rich chocolate flavor and playful decorations. They are moist, fudgy, and perfect for sharing as gifts or treats. The colorful candy melts and mini bows add a charming seasonal touch.

The image shows nine square brownie pieces arranged closely on a white plate with a white marbled texture beneath. Each brownie is dark brown with a slightly cracked top, giving a rough and chewy look. On the flat surface of each brownie, colorful decorations are placed to look like gift bows in two main colors: bright red and bright green, each with thin, ribbon-like lines crossing below the bow. Around the bows, small festive sprinkles in red, green, and white add extra color and texture. The arrangement and decoration make the brownies look like small, wrapped presents. 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)

Red, green, and white candy melts (for decoration)
Mini candy bows or holiday sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the sugar until smooth, then remove from heat and let cool slightly. Add eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is glossy.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until smooth. If using, fold in the chocolate chips now.
Step 4: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs. Allow to cool completely in the pan.

Step 5: Lift the brownies out using the parchment paper and cut into squares. Melt the candy melts according to package instructions and drizzle over the brownies. Decorate with mini candy bows or holiday sprinkles if desired.
Step 6: Let the decorations set at room temperature or chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes. Serve on a festive platter or package them as gifts.

Tips & Variations

For extra richness, substitute half of the butter with high-quality dark chocolate melted in the saucepan.

Use festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies instead of bows for a different holiday look.
If you prefer cakey brownies, bake an additional 5 minutes and avoid overmixing the batter.

Storage

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To enjoy warm brownies, heat individual pieces in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows nine square chocolate brownies arranged closely on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. Each brownie has a shiny, cracked dark brown top layer, indicating a fudgy texture. On top of each brownie is a colorful decoration resembling wrapped gift bows, made of red or green icing with white icing lines creating a ribbon effect across the surface. Small sprinkles in red, green, and white colors, shaped like stars and dots, are scattered around the bows, adding a festive touch. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend in a 1:1 ratio. Ensure your cocoa powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How do I melt candy melts without burning them?

Melt candy melts slowly using a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently. This prevents overheating and keeps the candy smooth for drizzling.