Name: Brownies Gifts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488785H24M28S
Total time: PT-488785H24M28S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup brown sugar (optional); 3 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; ¾ cup all-purpose flour; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp baking powder (optional, for a cakier texture); ½–1 cup chocolate chips or chunks (optional); Optional mix-ins: chopped nuts, crushed candy canes, peanut butter, caramel

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Brownies make one of my favorite edible gifts—they’re rich, chocolatey, and always appreciated. Whether I’m making them for friends, family, neighbors, or coworkers, I find that a beautifully packaged batch of homemade brownies feels thoughtful and personal. These brownies are fudgy, moist, and easy to customize with mix-ins or toppings to suit any taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love giving brownies as gifts because they’re simple to make in large batches and transport well. They also stay fresh for several days, making them ideal for gift-giving during the holidays or special occasions. I enjoy adding a festive touch with holiday wrappers, ribbons, or cutting them into fun shapes with cookie cutters. Plus, they taste amazing whether I keep them classic or get creative with flavors.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar (optional, for added moisture)
Eggs
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Salt
Baking powder (optional, for a slightly cakier texture)
Chocolate chips or chunks (optional)
Nuts, crushed candy, or other mix-ins (optional)

Directions

I melt the butter and let it cool slightly before mixing it with the sugars until smooth.
I whisk in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
In another bowl, I combine the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder (if using).
I gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined.
I fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or any add-ins I like.
I pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan and spread it evenly.
I bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
After cooling completely, I cut the brownies into squares or shapes and package them for gifting.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 16 standard brownies or more if I cut them smaller for gifting. It takes me about 15 minutes to prep and 25–30 minutes to bake, so the whole process is done in under an hour.

Variations

For peppermint brownies, I add crushed candy canes on top. For a nutty twist, I mix in chopped walnuts or pecans. Sometimes I swirl in peanut butter or caramel before baking for an extra-decadent gift. I also like using holiday-shaped cookie cutters to cut the brownies once cooled, giving them a festive touch.

storage/reheating

I store my brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. To keep them longer, I freeze them—individually wrapped or in a sealed container—for up to 2 months. When gifting, I recommend including a note to store them in a cool, dry place and enjoy within a few days.

FAQs

Can I make brownies ahead for gifting?

Yes, I often bake them a day or two ahead. They stay fresh and even taste better the next day.

What’s the best way to package brownies as gifts?

I like wrapping them in parchment paper and tying with twine or ribbon, or placing them in festive treat boxes or tins.

Can I freeze brownies before gifting?

Absolutely. I freeze them after cutting, then thaw overnight before packaging.

How do I keep brownies from getting dry?

I avoid overbaking and store them in an airtight container. Sometimes I add a slice of bread to the container to keep them soft.

Can I make gluten-free brownies?

Yes, I’ve had great success substituting a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.

Conclusion

Brownies are one of my go-to homemade gifts because they’re easy, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly customizable. Whether I’m making them rich and fudgy, filled with seasonal flavors, or shaped for the holidays, they always bring smiles. I enjoy baking them almost as much as I enjoy giving them.