Winter Wonderland Brownies

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 13”x9” pan with parchment paper that extends up all four sides. Spray parchment lightly with cooking spray and set the pan aside.

In a large microwavable bowl, combine chopped chocolate and butter. Heat in 30 second bursts at 50% power in the microwave, stirring between each burst. When the mixture is about 2/3 melted, stir without any further heating until all butter and chocolate is melted. Whisk in sugar, eggs, vanilla, and salt. Shake off whisk and switch to a rubber spatula. Add flour and mix well. Scrape batter into the lined baking pan and spread evenly throughout pan.

Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the pan comes out with just a speck or two of brownie. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.

Once brownies have cooled, lift the brownies from the pan using the parchment paper as handles.

If using decorative trees, snip off any wooden bases and shake the trees thoroughly over a trash can to remove loose “snow”. Cut brownies into two-inch squares. Arrange about half of the brownies on a narrow, rectangular serving platter or plate. Place 2-3 tablespoons of powdered sugar into a fine mesh strainer or sifter and dust the bottom layer of brownies until sugar coats the top. Arrange remaining brownies as desired to create multiple levels and a mountainous effect. Continue dusting the tops of the brownies as you place each layer down so that every brownies is dusted with sugar.

Carefully arrange trees and forest animals as desired just before serving.

Leftover brownies should be covered with foil or plastic wrap or can be stored in an airtight container or zippered bag.

Adapted from Smitten Kitchen.