Name: Easy Santa Hat Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box brownie mix (or homemade brownie batter); 12–16 fresh strawberries, washed and hulled; 1 cup whipped cream or stabilized whipped topping; Optional: powdered sugar, for dusting; Optional: melted chocolate, for drizzling

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Easy Santa Hat Brownies are one of my favorite festive treats to make during the holidays. They combine rich, fudgy brownies with fresh strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream to create a dessert that’s both adorable and delicious. Whether I’m making them for a holiday party or a cozy night in, they never fail to bring smiles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly simple but looks so fun and festive. The brownie base gives me that deep chocolatey satisfaction, while the strawberry and cream topping adds freshness and lightness. There’s no complicated decorating required—just a few easy steps and I’ve got the perfect holiday dessert that even kids can help make. Easy Santa Hat Brownies

Ingredients

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

Brownie mix (or homemade brownies, baked and cooled)
Fresh strawberries (washed and hulled)
Whipped cream or stabilized whipped topping
Optional: powdered sugar for dusting, melted chocolate for drizzling

Directions

I bake a batch of brownies and let them cool completely.
I use a round cookie cutter or a knife to cut the brownies into small circles (about the size of the base of a strawberry).
I place a small swirl of whipped cream on top of each brownie round.
I set a hulled strawberry, pointed side up, on top of the whipped cream to resemble a Santa hat.
I add a small dot of whipped cream on the tip of each strawberry to complete the hat look.
If I’m serving them for a party, I chill them in the fridge until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12–16 Santa Hat Brownies, depending on the size of the cut-outs.
Prep time: 15 minutes (after brownies are baked)
Bake time: 25–30 minutes (for brownies)
Total time: Around 45 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I use mini brownie bites baked in a muffin tin instead of cutting from a pan—it makes the process even quicker. I’ve also tried topping with piped cream cheese frosting instead of whipped cream for a richer flavor. For extra sparkle, I dust them with a little powdered sugar or edible glitter just before serving.

storage/reheating

I store these in the fridge in a single layer for up to 2 days. I don’t stack them, as the whipped cream and strawberries are delicate. I don’t reheat them—they’re best served chilled or at room temperature. If using homemade whipped cream, I make sure it’s stabilized so it holds up longer. Easy Santa Hat Brownies

FAQs

Can I use store-bought brownies?

Yes. I’ve used bakery brownies or pre-packaged ones when I’m short on time. I just cut them to size and decorate as usual.

How do I keep the whipped cream from melting?

I use stabilized whipped cream or pipe it right before serving. Keeping the finished brownies chilled also helps hold their shape.

Can I make these ahead of time?

I prep the brownies in advance and decorate them the same day I plan to serve. Strawberries can release moisture, so I avoid assembling too far ahead.

What if I don’t have a round cutter?

I use a small glass, bottle cap, or just slice the brownies into squares and decorate them the same way—it still looks festive.

Can I use frosting instead of whipped cream?

Yes. Cream cheese frosting or buttercream holds up really well and adds extra richness. It’s a great option if I need them to sit out longer.

Conclusion

Easy Santa Hat Brownies are one of my favorite festive desserts to whip up during the holiday season. They’re simple, fun to decorate, and delicious enough to please both kids and adults. With just a few ingredients and some holiday spirit, I turn classic brownies into a whimsical treat that’s perfect for any celebration.