Oh, where do I even begin with these Chocolate Ganache Holiday Brownies? If you’ve ever experienced that blissful moment when your taste buds rejoice with the rich, velvety goodness of chocolate, then you know just how divine these little squares of joy are! I was first introduced to this recipe at a family gathering, where a cousin baked them to much fanfare. The aroma wafting through the air had everyone lined up like kids at a candy store, and when we finally had a bite, we were all moaning (in the best way possible!). Since then, they’ve become my go-to holiday treat, perfect for spreading Christmas cheer and fueling all the holiday festivities!
These brownies are simply irresistible. The combination of a fudgy brownie base topped with a luscious chocolate ganache is a match made in dessert heaven. And don’t even get me started on the holiday-themed toppings! They add a festive flair that not only elevates the aesthetics but also adds a fun crunch. Trust me, they’re always a hit with friends and family—and you might even find yourself becoming the unofficial brownie supplier for every gathering after your first batch!
What’s in Chocolate Ganache Holiday Brownies?
- Unsalted butter: The backbone of our brownie base. I always go for good-quality butter—my favorite is Kerrygold for that rich flavor.
- Granulated sugar: This sweetener provides the sweetness and moisture we crave in brownies. You could use less if you want a slightly less sweet treat.
- Large eggs: Essential for binding and achieving that fudgy texture that we all love.
- Vanilla extract: A little splash of vanilla goes a long way in enhancing the overall flavor.
- All-purpose flour: Just enough to hold everything together without making it too cakey.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: The star of the show. I always recommend a high-quality cocoa for the richest brownie experience. You won’t regret getting Ghirardelli!
- Salt: A pinch of salt amplifies the sweetness and balances the flavors beautifully.
- Baking powder: This my secret weapon for slight fluffiness while keeping that dense brownie texture.
- Heavy cream: The creamy base for our ganache, and it must be full-fat—you want that glossy finish!
- Semi-sweet chocolate: Use high-quality chocolate for that rich, decadent ganache. You can swap it out for dark chocolate if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Holiday-themed chocolate candies: Think of these as the confetti of your brownie party! I like using M&M’s for that seasonal pop of color.
- Sprinkles (optional): Because what’s more festive than sprinkles? Go wild!
Are Chocolate Ganache Holiday Brownies Good for You?
Let’s be honest—these brownies don’t have the word “healthy” in their vocabulary, but that doesn’t mean we don’t indulge sometimes, right? Unsalted butter and heavy cream provide richness and decadence, while you can take comfort in knowing that cocoa powder is full of antioxidants—if you’re looking for a silver lining! In moderation, of course, sweets can bring a little joy to our lives, especially during those holiday gatherings. Just remember, one of these beauties is enough to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (90g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 8 ounces (225g) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup (80g) holiday-themed chocolate candies
- Sprinkles (optional)
How to Make Chocolate Ganache Holiday Brownies?
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting some edges hang over for easy lifting later. Thank me later!
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s silky smooth—once melted, pull it off the heat and stir in the granulated sugar until you achieve a nice creamy mixture.
- Now, crack those eggs in one at a time, whisking like a champ after each addition. Stir in that heavenly vanilla extract for an extra pop of flavor!
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold it into the wet mixture until just combined; we don’t want to overmix unless we’re trying to turn our brownies into bricks!
- Pour the brownie batter into the lined baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake this chocolate concoction for 25-30 minutes. When a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready to come out!
- While those brownies are baking, let’s whip up the ganache. In a small saucepan, heat your heavy cream until it is just simmering. Remove from heat and mix in the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Once the brownies have baked and cooled for about 10-15 minutes, pour your luscious ganache over the top and spread it evenly. Can’t resist a generous pour here!
- While the ganache is still warm, sprinkle on your holiday-themed chocolate candies and any optional sprinkles. You want that festive ambiance!
- Now, let these showstoppers cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift them out with the parchment paper and cut into squares. Serve and watch them disappear!
Extra Holiday Cheer Tips
- For a deeper chocolate experience, switch up the ganache with dark chocolate!
- Feeling adventurous? Add crushed peppermint for a minty twist or some chopped nuts for a little crunch.
- These brownies keep well—store them in an airtight container, and they’ll be your go-to sweet for up to a week. Good luck keeping them around that long!
If you haven’t already, this Chocolate Ganache Holiday Brownies recipe is the perfect addition to your holiday treats lineup. Trust me, once you share these fudgy squares with family and friends, they’ll be asking for more… or even your secret recipe! So the next time you reach for the mixer, remember this recipe and indulge in a little holiday magic. Happy baking!
