For the Brownies:

Cup of Yum
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9" x 13" baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or in a pot on the stove. Once melted, add the sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined. Let it cool slightly if it's very hot.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The mixture should be smooth and well blended.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing. If you're using chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached (not wet batter).
8. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack before cutting them into 12 squares, and beginning to decorate!

To Decorate the Christmas Present Brownies:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla. Add powdered sugar and whisk until you have a soft cream cheese frosting.
2. Spread the cream cheese frosting over the brownies in a thin even layer.
3. Using the red cookie icing, add a vertical line to each brownie. (See pictures for help!)
4. Add a horizontal line across each brownie.
5. Draw the bow shape onto each brownie, so each one looks like a little Christmas present!