3 tablespoons milk, or more as needed for consistency
1/2 cup festive Christmas sprinkles or crushed candy canes
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9 by 9 inch baking pan with a little bit of butter or line it with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang on the sides so you can easily lift the brownies out once they are finished.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and the granulated sugar. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the alcohol-free vanilla extract until the mixture is glossy.
Sift the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder directly into the wet ingredients. Use a spatula to gently fold everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the brownies tough rather than fudgy.
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly with your spatula. Place the pan in the center of the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You will know they are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
While the brownies are cooling, prepare the frosting by beating the softened butter in a medium bowl until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and milk. Beat on low speed until combined, then increase the speed to high and whip until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable. Add an extra teaspoon of milk if the frosting feels too stiff.
Once the brownies are entirely cool to the touch, spread the frosting in an even layer over the top. Immediately decorate with your favorite Christmas sprinkles or crushed candies so they stick to the fresh frosting. Lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut them into 16 squares.
