There’s something downright magical about biting into one of these chocolate frosted Christmas brownies while the tree lights flicker in the background. The first time I made these, the frosting wasn’t even set yet — and still, we were all huddled around the kitchen island, sneaking forkfuls straight from the pan. It’s that kind of dessert: fudgy, festive, and impossible to resist.
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Why You’ll Love These Brownies
These chocolate frosted Christmas brownies check all the holiday boxes: rich, chocolatey, and dressed up in festive sprinkles. But what makes them a total go-to during the busy season? They’re easy enough to whip up on a weeknight but special enough to bring to a cookie exchange or holiday dinner. The batter comes together in one bowl, and the whipped chocolate buttercream is like a sweet cloud on top. Plus, kids love helping with the sprinkles — instant holiday fun!
Whether you’re baking for a party or just need a cozy treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee, these brownies bring full holiday cheer without a mountain of effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Brownies:
- 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate (roughly chopped)
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/3 cup granulated white sugar
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Frosting:
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 2 cups confectioners’ (powdered) sugar
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder (natural)
- 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional: Sprinkles for decorating
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment for easy lifting.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and chopped chocolate together. Stir until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour and salt in a separate bowl and set aside.
- Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, and vanilla until smooth — but don’t overmix.
- Combine Everything: Stir the cooled chocolate mixture into the egg mixture. Then gently fold in the dry ingredients just until combined.
- Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 25 minutes. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs — not clean!
- Cool Completely: Let the chocolate frosted Christmas brownies cool fully in the pan before frosting and slicing.
- Make the Frosting: Beat the butter and powdered sugar for 5 minutes until fluffy. Add cocoa, vanilla, salt, and cream. Beat another 5 minutes until light and airy.
- Frost & Decorate: Spread the whipped frosting over the cooled brownies. Add sprinkles while the frosting is fresh.
- Slice & Serve: Lift out the brownies using the parchment, slice into 16 squares, and enjoy!
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Want them extra fudgy? Stick with semi-sweet chocolate and don’t overbake if you want your chocolate frosted Christmas brownies ultra fudgy. Moist crumbs on the toothpick = perfect.
- Prefer a cakier texture? Add 2 extra tablespoons of flour and bake for 2–3 more minutes.
- Add-ins: A drop of peppermint extract or crushed peppermint candies on top adds a festive twist.
- No chopped chocolate? You can sub in 6 oz of semi-sweet chocolate chips — just melt gently with butter.
Serving & Storage
For the cleanest slices, chill the frosted brownies in the fridge for 15–20 minutes before cutting. Use a sharp knife and wipe between cuts.
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Fridge: Lasts up to 5 days. Bring to room temp before serving for best texture.
- Freezer: You can freeze the brownies unfrosted for up to 1 month. Wrap tightly and thaw before frosting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make brownies more fudgy than cakey?
Use less flour and more fat (like butter or chocolate). This recipe’s 1:1 fat-to-flour ratio is designed to keep things dense and rich.
Can I make these brownies ahead for Christmas?
Absolutely! Bake and cool them a day ahead. You can frost them the next day, or store frosted brownies in the fridge for a few days. Just bring them to room temp before serving.
What’s the best way to freeze brownies with frosting?
It’s best to freeze them without frosting. But if already frosted, flash-freeze until the top is firm, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight and let sit at room temp before serving.
Final Thoughts
These chocolate frosted Christmas brownies are the kind of treat that turns into a holiday tradition after just one bite. Simple to make, stunning to look at, and downright delicious. If you’re in the mood for more cozy holiday baking, try my pumpkin chiffon pie or savory roasted pumpkin seeds recipe next!
Don’t forget to pin this recipe, share it with your favorite baking buddy, or bookmark it for your next festive weekend.