If there’s one dessert that instantly makes it feel like Christmas, it’s brownies, but not just any kind. These frosted Christmas brownies are everything festive baking should be: rich, chewy, chocolaty, and topped with a creamy layer of sweet frosting. Whether you’re hosting a cookie exchange or want something special for Christmas morning, this recipe has the holiday magic baked right in.
With a balance of chocolate decadence and a fluffy frosted finish, these brownies bring together the best of both dessert worlds. They’re easy to prep, fun to decorate, and disappear faster than you can say “save me a corner piece.”
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Why You’ll Love This Frosted Christmas Brownies Recipe
There’s something about baking during the holidays that feels nostalgic and joyful all at once. These Christmas brownies are no exception. For one, they’re made in one bowl; which means less mess and more time to sip hot cocoa. And second, the frosted top isn’t just for looks; it adds a sweet, creamy contrast to the deep cocoa flavor underneath.
Plus, you can easily dress them up with crushed candy canes, red and green sprinkles, or even drizzle them with white chocolate. Whether you’re looking for an easy holiday bake or a dessert that looks like it came from a Christmas café window, these frosted brownies check every box.
Speaking of sweet holiday ideas, these Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Truffles are another crowd-favorite you won’t want to miss.
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Frosted Christmas Brownies
These Frosted Christmas Brownies are rich, chewy, and topped with a sweet vanilla frosting; perfect for holiday baking and sharing.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies 1x
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
4 tbsp softened butter (for frosting)
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
2 tbsp milk (for frosting)
1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
Holiday sprinkles or crushed candy canes (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 baking pan.
2. Melt butter and mix with sugar, eggs, and vanilla until combined.
3. Add cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour into pan and bake 25–30 minutes. Cool completely.
5. Beat frosting ingredients until creamy. Spread over brownies.
6. Decorate with sprinkles or candy canes.
7. Let set for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months individually wrapped.
Double the recipe for a 9×13 pan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Christmas Brownies
This recipe keeps things simple with pantry staples that still deliver rich flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Brownie Base | Frosting |
|---|---|
| 1/2 cup unsalted butter | 4 tbsp softened butter |
| 1 cup granulated sugar | 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar |
| 2 large eggs | 2 tbsp milk |
| 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder | 1 tsp vanilla extract |
| 1/2 cup all-purpose flour | Holiday sprinkles (optional) |
| 1 tsp vanilla extract |
Want more holiday goodies with similar ingredients? Try this Christmas Bread that’s loaded with warm spices and festive flavors.
How to Make Frosted Christmas Brownies
These festive treats come together in under an hour. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 baking pan.
- Melt the butter and whisk in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
- Add cocoa powder, flour, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth.
- Pour into the pan and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Let brownies cool completely before frosting.
- For the frosting, beat the butter until creamy, then add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Spread evenly over cooled brownies.
- Decorate with sprinkles or crushed candy canes.
Let the brownies set for 10–15 minutes before slicing into squares.
Need more easy chocolate bakes? These Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies pair beautifully with a holiday spread.
Tips and Variations to Customize Your Christmas Brownies
If you’re feeling creative, there are plenty of ways to make this recipe your own.
- Peppermint twist: Stir crushed candy canes into the batter for a minty crunch.
- Nutty layer: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a rich texture.
- Extra gooey: Swap half the flour for almond flour to make them even fudgier.
- Make-ahead magic: Bake the brownie base a day ahead and frost the next day for easier slicing.
Pro tip: use parchment paper to lift brownies out of the pan cleanly; perfect for serving or gifting.
And if you’re planning holiday party treats, these Christmas Cookie Box ideas offer plenty of mix-and-match inspiration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these frosted brownies?
Yes! Freeze them unfrosted or frosted (once set). Wrap individually in plastic and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
What kind of cocoa should I use?
Use unsweetened natural cocoa powder for a balanced chocolate flavor. Dutch-processed can be used, but it changes the texture slightly.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use a 9×13 pan and bake for 30–35 minutes. Keep an eye on the center; it should be set but soft.
How long do frosted brownies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temp, they stay fresh for 3–4 days. Refrigerate to extend shelf life.
For another creative take on dessert squares, you might like these Apple Brownies with a cozy fruit twist.
The Christmas Treat Everyone Will Love
These frosted Christmas brownies strike the perfect balance between festive and foolproof. They’re rich, soft, and topped with a sweet layer of frosting that makes every bite feel like a celebration. Whether you keep them simple or deck them out in holiday sprinkles, one thing’s for sure: they’ll disappear quickly.
If you’re already planning your holiday menu, don’t forget to check out these Thanksgiving Desserts for ideas that blend seamlessly into the Christmas season.
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