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Frosted Holiday Brownies

Frosted Holiday Brownies

Melena
These Frosted Holiday Brownies are rich, fudgy, and perfectly festive. Topped with creamy frosting and sprinkled with seasonal decorations, they’re the ultimate treat for parties, gifts, or cozy nights at home. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, these brownies bring joy to every bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Brownies
  • ½ cup unsalted butter or vegan butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¾ cup cocoa powder
  • 2 large eggs or 2 flax eggs for vegan option
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • For the Frosting
  • ½ cup butter or cream cheese softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder omit for vanilla frosting
  • 1–2 tablespoons milk or plant-based milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional Toppings
  • Crushed candy canes
  • Festive sprinkles
  • Chocolate curls or shavings
  • Edible glitter

Instructions
 

  • Preheat Oven:
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  • Make the Brownie Batter:
  • Melt butter and whisk in granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth.
  • Add cocoa powder, eggs, and vanilla extract, whisking until well combined.
  • Stir in flour and salt until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
  • Bake:
  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until edges are set but the center looks slightly soft.
  • Allow brownies to cool completely before frosting.
  • Prepare the Frosting:
  • Beat butter or cream cheese until fluffy.
  • Gradually mix in powdered sugar and cocoa powder.
  • Add milk one tablespoon at a time until smooth and spreadable.
  • Blend in vanilla extract.
  • Frost and Decorate:
  • Spread frosting evenly over cooled brownies.
  • Add toppings like crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or chocolate curls.
  • Chill for 10–15 minutes before slicing into squares.

Notes

  • For fudgy brownies, avoid overbaking.
  • Chill brownies before frosting for clean layers.
  • Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.
  • For thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar; for lighter texture, add a bit more milk.