Reindeer Brownie Bites (Adorable Holiday Treats)

ByFoodarshia

If you’ve ever wanted a dessert that makes people go “OMG STOP, that’s so cute,” before they even taste it — these Reindeer Brownie Bites are the holiday treat. They’re bite-sized, chocolatey, ridiculously adorable, and honestly way easier than they look. Perfect for parties, cookie swaps, or when you just want to feel like a Pinterest mom without the emotional commitment.

Why This Recipe is Awesome

First off, it’s brownies. Brownies. You already win.

Second, we’re decorating them to look like tiny reindeer, which immediately makes you the most festive person in the room. They’re idiot-proof — even I didn’t mess it up, and trust me, turning candy eyes in the right direction shouldn’t be as challenging as it is.
Plus, kids love them, adults love them, and you get to say “Oh these? Just something I whipped up,” like the holiday superstar you are.

Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 24 brownie bites
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
Calories: ~110 per reindeer
Total Time: ~30 minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 box brownie mix (plus the eggs, oil & water it requires — we’re not judging)
  • Mini pretzels (for antlers)
  • Candy eyes
  • Red M&M’s or Sixlets (Rudolph-level cuteness)
  • Melted chocolate or frosting (your edible glue)
  • Optional: holiday sprinkles, because you deserve joy

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven according to your brownie mix and grease a mini muffin pan.
  2. Prepare the brownie batter as directed. Yes, you can lick the spoon. No, I didn’t say that.
  3. Spoon batter into each mini muffin cup, filling about ¾ of the way. They rise, so don’t get wild.
  4. Bake for 12–15 minutes until set. Use the toothpick test unless you enjoy raw brownie mush.
  5. Let them cool until they’re easy to remove without crumbling like your holiday budget.
  6. Add a dot of melted chocolate to attach the candy eyes.
  7. Stick on a red candy nose — Rudolph would be proud.
  8. Break mini pretzels in half and gently press into the top for antlers.
  9. Optional: add sprinkles or drizzle chocolate for extra drama.
  10. Step back and admire your collection of tiny chocolate reindeer. Take photos. Brag online.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overbaking the brownies: Dry brownie bites are a crime. Remove them as soon as they’re set.
  • Using whole pretzels: Break them gently so they look like antlers, not antennae.
  • Decorating while hot: Everything melts into chaos. Cute chaos, but still chaos.
  • Pressing too hard: Reindeer lose antlers. Sad times.

Alternatives & Substitutions

  • Swap boxed mix for homemade brownie batter if you’re feeling like a holiday overachiever.
  • Use chocolate chips or mini marshmallows instead of candy noses.
  • Try white chocolate drizzle for a snowy reindeer look.
  • Add peppermint extract to the batter for a festive minty version.
  • Use gluten-free brownie mix to make everyone at the party happy.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yep! They stay cute and delicious for 2–3 days when stored airtight.

Do I have to use boxed brownie mix?
Nope — but it makes your life easier and your kitchen cleaner. Your call.

Why are my pretzel antlers breaking?
Pretzels are dramatic. Break them gently and choose thicker ones if possible.

Can I freeze the brownie bites?
Yes! Freeze undecorated bites, then decorate after thawing for best results.

Can I make them full-size?
You can, but the reindeer go from cute to slightly terrifying. Mini is best. Trust me.

What if I can’t find candy eyes?
Use mini chocolate chips or icing dots. Reindeer aren’t picky.

Can kids help with decorating?
Absolutely — though be prepared for some… creatively placed eyeballs.

Final Thoughts

Reindeer Brownie Bites are the kind of holiday recipe that brings instant cheer with minimal effort. They’re cute, fun, chocolatey, and perfect for sharing (or not — no judgment here). Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself, these little reindeer deliver serious festive joy.
Now go make a batch and impress everyone — including yourself. You nailed it!

Similar Posts