Ahh, the holiday season! It’s that magical time of year when the air is filled with the scent of pine, twinkling lights brighten up our homes, and the kitchen becomes a warm sanctuary of baking delights. One of my absolute favorite traditions is whipping up a batch of these delicious Christmas brownies. They’re not just any brownies—they’re rich, chocolatey, and have a festive twist from the crushed peppermint candies. Trust me, the combination of chocolate and peppermint is pure bliss! I remember the first time I made these with my grandma; we had flour everywhere and laughter echoing through the kitchen. These brownies always bring back those cherished memories, and I just know they’ll become a staple in your holiday baking as well. Let’s dive into making these scrumptious treats that are sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings!
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making these delightful Christmas brownies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies
Make sure to get everything ready before you start mixing; it makes the process so much smoother! Trust me, you don’t want to be scrambling for ingredients once you’ve melted the butter. Happy baking!
How to Prepare Instructions
Alright, let’s get those holiday vibes going and whip up these Christmas brownies step by step! Follow my lead, and you’ll be savoring these festive treats in no time:
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important, so don’t skip it! You want your brownies to bake evenly, and a hot oven is key.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsweetened cocoa powder, sugar, and melted butter. Give it a good stir until it’s all blended together. The smell of chocolate will start to fill your kitchen—yum!
- Now, let’s add the eggs. Crack them in one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps keep your batter smooth and creamy.
- Next, stir in the vanilla extract. It adds that extra layer of flavor that makes these brownies irresistible!
- Time to fold in the dry ingredients! Gently add in the flour and salt, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
- Here comes the fun part! Toss in the chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies. Stir them in gently, so they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the luscious brownie batter into a greased 9×9 inch baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly—no one wants a lopsided brownie!
- Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’re looking for a slightly firm top and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Once they’re done baking, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan. Patience is key! Let them cool completely before cutting them into squares.
And that’s it! You’re just a few steps away from enjoying these delicious Christmas brownies. I promise, the smell wafting through your home will have everyone gathering in the kitchen, eagerly awaiting a taste!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Christmas brownies are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of flavors and a reminder of the joy of the season! Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe:
- Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip these up in no time—perfect for those busy holiday days!
- Festive Flavors: The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint brings a delightful holiday spirit to every bite.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These brownies are always a hit at gatherings, making them a fantastic dessert to share with family and friends.
- Rich and Decadent: Each bite is fudgy and indulgent, satisfying your sweet tooth while embracing holiday cheer.
- Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or swap out toppings to make them your own; the possibilities are endless!
Trust me, once you taste these brownies, you’ll find yourself making them year after year. They’re just that good!
Tips for Success
Want to ensure your Christmas brownies turn out perfectly every time? Here are some pro tips that I swear by:
- Mixing Technique: When combining the ingredients, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to tough brownies. Just mix until everything is combined and a few lumps are okay.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on your brownies as they bake. Ovens can vary, so start checking them at the 20-minute mark. You want them to be set on top, but still a little gooey in the center for that perfect fudgy texture.
- Cooling Time: Patience is key! Let them cool completely in the pan before cutting. This helps them hold their shape and makes for cleaner slices.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor or a sprinkle of sea salt on top after baking for a delicious contrast!
- Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to get creative! You can mix in nuts, dried fruit, or even a swirl of peanut butter or caramel for a different flavor profile.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to baking the most delicious Christmas brownies that everyone will love. Happy baking!
Variations
Ready to shake things up a bit with your Christmas brownies? There are so many fun ways to customize this recipe and make it your own! Here are some of my favorite variations that you can try:
- Nutty Delight: Add in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch. The nuts pair beautifully with the chocolate and peppermint!
- White Chocolate Swirl: Before baking, swirl in some melted white chocolate for a gorgeous marbled effect and a sweet contrast to the dark chocolate.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce on top of the brownies just before serving—talk about a decadent treat!
- Mint Chocolate Chip: Replace the crushed peppermint candies with mint chocolate chips for an extra burst of minty flavor. It’s a twist that chocolate lovers will adore!
- Spiced Version: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for the holidays.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to make these brownies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
With these variations, the possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to get creative and make these Christmas brownies uniquely yours. Enjoy experimenting, and happy baking!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to indulging in these delightful Christmas brownies, it’s always good to know what you’re enjoying! Here are the typical nutritional values per serving, which is one brownie:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 2g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on standard ingredients. If you decide to make any variations or substitutions, be sure to adjust the nutritional values accordingly. Enjoy every delicious bite of your Christmas brownies—they’re worth it!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve baked your scrumptious Christmas brownies, you’ll want to keep them fresh for as long as possible (if they last that long, of course!). Here’s how to store and reheat them for maximum deliciousness:
- Storing: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. You can layer parchment paper between the brownies if you’d like to keep them from sticking together. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for about 3 days, or you can refrigerate them for up to a week.
- Freezing: If you want to save some for later (or if you just can’t resist making a double batch!), you can freeze the brownies. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
- Reheating: If you’re pulling a brownie from the fridge or freezer, you can enjoy it cold, but if you prefer them warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will make them wonderfully gooey again. Just be careful not to overheat them, or they might dry out!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your Christmas brownies whenever the craving strikes! Happy snacking!
FAQ Section
Got questions about these delightful Christmas brownies? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries and my go-to answers:
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! If you prefer dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate, feel free to swap them in for the cocoa powder or chocolate chips. Just keep in mind that it might change the flavor profile a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!
How do I store leftover brownies?
Store your Christmas brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. If you want to make them last longer, freeze them individually wrapped for a few months!
Can I substitute the eggs for something vegan?
Yes! You can use applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) or a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens) as an egg substitute. This will keep your brownies moist and delicious!
What if I don’t have peppermint candies?
No problem! You can leave them out entirely or use crushed Oreos, toffee bits, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a different twist. The brownies will still be rich and satisfying without the peppermint!
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Definitely! These Christmas brownies are perfect for making ahead. Just bake them a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh and tasty, and the flavors will have time to meld beautifully!
With these FAQs, I hope I’ve answered some of your burning questions about making the perfect Christmas brownies. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve baked up a batch of those delicious Christmas brownies, it’s time to think about how to elevate your dessert experience! Here are some delightful ideas for what to serve alongside these festive treats:
- Classic Hot Chocolate: There’s nothing quite like a warm cup of hot chocolate to pair with your brownies. Top it with whipped cream and maybe even a sprinkle of crushed peppermint for that extra festive touch!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a warm brownie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The melting ice cream creates a heavenly combination that’s hard to resist!
- Espresso or Coffee: A nice cup of espresso or coffee complements the chocolate flavors beautifully. It’s a perfect way to balance the sweetness of the brownies.
- Fruit Compote: Drizzle some homemade berry compote over the brownies for a tart contrast that cuts through the richness. Strawberries or raspberries work especially well!
- Other Holiday Desserts: Why not create a dessert platter? Pair your Christmas brownies with gingerbread cookies, peppermint bark, or even a slice of spiced pumpkin pie for a festive spread that everyone will love!
With these serving suggestions, you can create a delightful dessert experience that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy every bite of your Christmas brownies and the joy they bring to your holiday celebrations!
Imprimer
Christmas Brownie Bliss: 7 Festive Flavors to Delight
- Temps Total: 40 minutes
- Rendement: 16 brownies 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
Delicious Christmas brownie with festive flavors.
Ingrédients
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix cocoa powder, sugar, and melted butter.
- Add eggs one at a time and mix well.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Fold in flour and salt until combined.
- Add chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×9 inch baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Let cool before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- Top with whipped cream for extra flavor.
- Can add nuts for added texture.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 25 minutes
- Catégorie: Dessert
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 brownie
- Calories: 150
- Sucre: 12g
- De Sodium: 50mg
- La graisse: 7g
- Graisses Saturées: 4g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 2g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 20g
- La fibre: 1g
- La protéine: 2g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 30mg
Mots-clés: christmas brownie, holiday dessert, chocolate brownie
