Ultimate Festive Brownie

There’s something about the smell of brownies baking that just wraps you in warmth. And when those brownies are dressed up for the holidays, with peppermint crunch, a drizzle of white chocolate, and a sparkle of festive sprinkles, you know you’re in for something special. These Ultimate Festive Brownies are rich, fudgy, and indulgent, the kind of dessert that brings everyone around the table, sneaking seconds when they think no one’s watching.

Behind the Recipe

The idea for these festive brownies came one snowy December afternoon when I needed a dessert that felt like a warm hug but still brought some holiday sparkle. I started with my go-to fudgy brownie base, the kind that has that perfect crinkle top and melt-in-your-mouth middle. Then I thought, why not give it a Christmas twist? A little peppermint for that wintery zing, white chocolate for some sweet contrast, and sprinkles because, well, everything’s better with sprinkles.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Brownies, believe it or not, have a pretty modern history. Unlike cookies or cakes that go back centuries, the brownie was born in the United States in the early 1900s. It was a happy accident, likely from someone forgetting to add baking powder to chocolate cake. Over time, people started tweaking them — some like them cakey, some like them fudgy. Our version leans toward ultra-fudgy and decadent. The festive flair? That’s our own spin, making it a perfect December delight.

Why You’ll Love Ultimate Festive Brownie

This brownie recipe isn’t just about chocolate, it’s about the moment you bite in and everything feels just a little more magical.

Versatile: Perfect for Christmas parties, cookie exchanges, or just a cozy night in by the fire.
Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry staples make this a wallet-happy treat.
Quick and Easy: No mixer needed and everything comes together in one bowl.
Customizable: Add nuts, switch up the toppings, or use dark chocolate chips if you’d like.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves a brownie, especially when it’s decked out for the holidays.
Make-Ahead Friendly: These keep beautifully and even taste better the next day.
Great for Leftovers: Crumble over ice cream, or warm up for a midnight snack.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

You’ll want to get that signature shiny top and rich, gooey middle. Here’s how to make that happen:

• Melt the butter fully: This helps create that signature chewy, glossy texture.
• Whisk the sugars in well: This contributes to the shiny top and smooth batter.
• Do not overbake: Take them out when the center is just set. They’ll continue to cook slightly as they cool.
• Cool completely before cutting: This keeps the brownies from falling apart and gives you clean edges.
• Use good cocoa powder: The better the cocoa, the deeper the chocolate flavor.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

No fancy equipment needed, just your basics.

Mixing bowls: One large, one medium.
Whisk and spatula: To mix everything smoothly.
9×9-inch baking pan: For the perfect brownie thickness.
Parchment paper: Makes lifting and cutting a breeze.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy matters for brownies!

Ingredients in Ultimate Festive Brownie

Every component plays a delicious part in creating these holiday gems. Let’s break it down.

1. Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks) Provides moisture and that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
2. Granulated Sugar: 1 cup Helps create that classic crinkle top and sweetness.
3. Brown Sugar: 1 cup Adds depth and a hint of molasses richness.
4. Large Eggs: 3 They bind everything together and add structure.
5. Vanilla Extract: 1 tablespoon Enhances all the chocolatey goodness.
6. All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup Just enough to hold it together while keeping it fudgy.
7. Cocoa Powder: ¾ cup The base of that rich chocolate flavor.
8. Salt: ½ teaspoon Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
9. Baking Powder: ½ teaspoon A touch to help them rise ever so slightly.
10. Crushed Peppermint Candy: ½ cup Adds crunch and a refreshing festive flavor.
11. White Chocolate Chips or Chopped White Chocolate: ½ cup For a creamy contrast and extra indulgence.
12. Holiday Sprinkles: ¼ cup Purely for joy and sparkle.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes you’ve got to work with what’s on hand. Here are a few handy swaps.

Brown Sugar: Use all granulated sugar if needed.
White Chocolate: Milk or dark chocolate chips work fine.
Peppermint Candy: Crushed candy canes or peppermint bark.
All-Purpose Flour: Gluten-free blend if you’re avoiding gluten.
Butter: Coconut oil for a dairy-free version.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cocoa Powder: This is the soul of your brownie. A high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder makes all the difference, giving you that rich, intense chocolate flavor.
Peppermint Candy: Beyond the festive crunch, it adds a cool brightness that balances the richness of the chocolate.

Instructions for Making Ultimate Festive Brownie

Get ready to bake up some holiday magic. Here are the steps you’ll follow:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth. Whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Pour the brownie batter into the lined pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Sprinkle the crushed peppermint, white chocolate, and holiday sprinkles evenly over the top.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Let the brownies cool completely in the pan. This helps them set for clean cuts.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Slice into squares and serve as-is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Watch them disappear fast!

Texture & Flavor Secrets

These brownies are the ultimate contrast of chewy edges, a soft gooey middle, and crunchy toppings. The melted white chocolate adds creaminess, while the peppermint crunch lifts the flavor with a bright pop. Every bite is sweet, minty, and chocolatey with just the right amount of chew.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few simple tips go a long way in brownie perfection:

• Use parchment to lift brownies out easily.
• Let them rest overnight for even better flavor.
• For extra shine, beat the eggs and sugar well before combining.
• Add a pinch of espresso powder to deepen the chocolate.

What to Avoid

Brownies are forgiving, but a few things can trip you up:

• Overmixing the batter — it can make them tough.
• Overbaking — you’ll lose that gooey center.
• Cutting too early — always cool completely.
• Using cold eggs or butter — room temp blends better.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 16
Calories per serving: 285

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These brownies are a dream for prepping ahead. You can bake them a day early and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp or warm in the microwave for that fresh-baked feel.

How to Serve Ultimate Festive Brownie

Serve these beauties as the centerpiece of your dessert table, or wrap them in parchment and tie with twine for the cutest edible gift. Pair them with a hot cocoa or even a peppermint latte for the ultimate holiday vibe.

Creative Leftover Transformations

If somehow you have leftovers, don’t worry — we’ve got ideas:

• Crumble over vanilla ice cream for a quick sundae.
• Layer with whipped cream in a dessert parfait.
• Reheat gently and serve with warm milk for a brownie mug treat.

Additional Tips

Want to take things up a notch?

• Add a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before baking.
• Use cookie cutters to shape brownies for a fun twist.
• Mix in mini marshmallows for a Rocky Road-style upgrade.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation is key. Cut the brownies with a warm knife for clean edges, then stack them on a holiday platter with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. You can even tie them individually with red ribbon for the perfect party favor.

Variations to Try

• Mint Chocolate Chip Brownies: Add chopped mint chocolate candy to the batter.
• Gingerbread Brownies: Swirl in molasses and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Nutty Delight: Stir in toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch.
• Candy Bar Mash-Up: Fold in chopped up candy bars like Snickers or Kit Kat.
• Red Velvet Brownies: Add a bit of red food coloring and cream cheese swirl for a dramatic twist.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use a boxed brownie mix?

Yes, just add the toppings to make it festive.

Q2: Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just use a 9×13 pan and increase baking time by 5 to 10 minutes.

Q3: How do I get clean cuts?

Cool completely and use a sharp knife wiped clean between slices.

Q4: Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works great.

Q5: Can I skip the peppermint?

Of course. Try chopped nuts or extra chocolate chips instead.

Q6: What kind of cocoa powder should I use?

Use unsweetened natural cocoa for best flavor.

Q7: Can I freeze the brownies?

Yes. Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months.

Q8: What if I don’t have white chocolate?

Milk or dark chocolate works too.

Q9: How do I store them?

Airtight container at room temp for 4 days.

Q10: Can kids help make this?

Absolutely! It’s a fun, simple recipe perfect for little hands.

Conclusion

These Ultimate Festive Brownies are more than just a treat — they’re a celebration baked into every square. Whether you’re sharing them at a party or keeping them all to yourself (no judgment here), they bring joy with every fudgy bite. Trust me, this one’s worth every crumb.

Print