This batch of Christmas Present Brownies is the kind of holiday baking that became a tradition the first winter I tried it: simple ingredients, quick method, and a joyful finish that makes even the most ordinary brownie feel like a thoughtful gift. I first made these one December when I needed something festive to bring to a neighbors' cookie swap but had only pantry staples on hand. The ribbons — created from red, green, and white candy melts — transformed humble fudgy squares into miniature presents that disappeared faster than I could box them. The texture is rich and slightly chewy at the center with a glossy top, and the candy ribbons add a playful snap and color contrast that kids and adults alike comment on.

What I love most about this version is its approachable balance: it relies on straightforward technique rather than complex ingredients, and the decorations allow you to dial the holiday vibe up or down. The batter is silky because the sugar is whisked into warm melted butter, which yields a glossy, slightly dense crumb once baked. Decorating is forgiving — no need for perfect piping skills — so it's a great project to do with kids or to prep while watching a holiday movie. These squares travel well, stack neatly in a box, and make a charming edible gift when topped with tiny candy bows or festive sprinkles.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter (1 cup / 2 sticks): Use a good-quality butter like Plugrá or Kerrygold for flavor; melting it and whisking in sugar yields a glossy batter and contributes to a tender, fudgy crumb.
• Granulated sugar (2 cups): Standard granulated sugar gives structure and that classic brownie sheen when combined with melted butter — avoid substituting liquid sweeteners without recalibrating the recipe.
• Large eggs (4): Room temperature eggs emulsify the batter and add richness; if cold, let them sit for 15–20 minutes to blend more easily.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Pure vanilla enhances the chocolate flavor; use real extract rather than imitation when possible.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): Measure by spooning into the cup then leveling off to avoid a dry, cakey result — this relatively small amount keeps the brownies dense.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (1 cup): Dutch-process or natural will both work but affect color and flavor slightly — Dutch-process yields a deeper color and smoother flavor.
• Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon) & salt (1/4 teaspoon): Small amounts help control rise and balance sweetness; don’t skip the salt.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup, optional): Folded in for extra pockets of melted chocolate — use Ghirardelli or Nestlé Toll House for reliable results.
• Red, green, and white candy melts: For decorating ribbons; they melt cleanly and set firm at room temperature.
• Mini candy bows or holiday sprinkles: Optional embellishments to make each square look like a tiny present.

Instructions

Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper leaving an overhang on two sides — this makes it easy to lift the cooled slab out for cutting. Grease the pan lightly if your parchment is thin so it doesn’t shift during baking. Melt butter and combine with sugar: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter until fully liquid. Remove from heat and whisk in the granulated sugar until the mixture looks smooth and slightly glossy. Allow the mixture to cool for 2–3 minutes; it should be warm, not hot, before you add eggs to avoid cooking them. Add eggs and vanilla: Whisk in the eggs, one at a time, beating until each is fully incorporated and the mixture becomes thick and shiny — this step builds structure and creates a fudgy texture. Stir in the vanilla extract. Sift dry ingredients: Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt into a separate bowl to remove lumps and ensure even distribution. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture with a rubber spatula until just combined; overmixing will develop gluten and dry out the bars. Fold in chips and transfer: If using, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until they are evenly dispersed. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with an offset spatula so it bakes evenly. Bake and test for doneness: Bake in the center of the oven for 30–35 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs attached — not wet batter. The top should be set with a slight glossy crackle. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before decorating; cooling allows the crumb to stabilize for cleaner cuts. Cut and decorate: Lift the cooled brownie slab out using the parchment overhang and transfer to a cutting board. Cut into even squares (I like 24 pieces). Melt candy melts in separate microwave-safe bowls in 15-second bursts, stirring between bursts until smooth. Pipe or drizzle in crisscross lines to mimic ribbon and add tiny candy bows or sprinkles while the melts are still soft.

Storage Tips

Store cooled and decorated squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days; separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking. For longer storage, freeze the uncut slab wrapped tightly in plastic and foil for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before unwrapping and cutting; if you prefer to freeze already cut pieces, flash-freeze them on a tray for an hour then transfer to a freezer-safe container to avoid smudging decorations. Reheat briefly in a low oven (250°F / 120°C) for 5–7 minutes if you want a warm, gooey bite, but beware this will soften candy decorations.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to adapt ingredients, swap the semi-sweet chips for dark chocolate chips for a less sweet bar, or use milk chocolate for a sweeter profile. To make the bars gluten-free, substitute 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour and add a tablespoon of extra cocoa powder to retain structure. For dairy-free versions, use a vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips — the texture will be slightly different but still rich. If you’re avoiding refined sugar, experiment with coconut sugar at a 1:1 ratio; note the color will be darker and the top less glossy.

Serving Suggestions

Present the squares on a decorative platter lined with parchment or place individually in small clear boxes for gifting. Pair them with lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the richness. For a grown-up dessert, serve alongside spiced coffee or a glass of tawny port. Garnish with a dusting of cocoa powder, a few flaky sea salt crystals, or edible gold dust for a festive finish. These are ideal for cookie exchanges, bake sales, or arranged on a holiday dessert board with cookies and candied nuts.

Cultural Background

Brownies are a classic of American baking, believed to have originated in the late 19th to early 20th century as a portable, indulgent cake-like bar. Variations have proliferated — from cakey to fudgy — and decorating them as tiny “presents” is a modern, whimsical take that blends traditional baking with holiday craft. This approach reflects a larger trend of turning simple confections into themed party fare, making them both visually appealing and easy to distribute at celebrations.

Seasonal Adaptations

To adapt across seasons, change the candy melt colors and embellishments: pastel melts and candy eggs make them spring-appropriate, while orange and brown melts with toasted pecans suit autumn. For a winter twist beyond Christmas, top with crushed peppermint and use white candy melts for a snowy effect. Spiced variations can include a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder in the batter to deepen flavor for cooler months.

Meal Prep Tips

For efficient holiday prep, bake multiple slabs and freeze them uncut. On the day you need to serve, thaw in the refrigerator, slice, and decorate — the melts harden faster than you might expect so you can assemble trays shortly before guests arrive. Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between cuts for clean edges. If packaging as gifts, include a small note with storage instructions to help recipients enjoy them at their best.

These little gift-like squares are a reminder that small, thoughtful touches — like a ribbon of colored candy — can turn a familiar favorite into something truly memorable. Whether you bake them for family, friends, or a festive get-together, they’re a joyful way to share holiday warmth.