Hot Cocoa Fudge Brownies

I've spent the last three days having the time of my life wiping out in the snow.  The four wheeler has been so much fun - like a jet-ski for snow and all of us kids have "tubed" our hearts out. 

Every time we come inside, the little kids always ask for hot cocoa.  Always.  It magically makes any body part cold and hurting warm.  Who knew? :) 

So these brownies were inspired by our most recent obsession with hot cocoa.  I used store bought packs in this, but feel free to use a homemade mix.  These are great for when you are short on time ... something everyone is feeling right about now.  They are fudgy and chocolate-y and will satisfy any chocolate craving you might have.  I really enjoyed the smooth frosting, with hints of hot chocolate all throughout.  I would've put mini marshmallows on top, but guess who used them all?  Apparently, real hot cocoa is more important than my brownies. :)

This is a short post, I know, but I hope you are all are already having a wonderful time with family or getting ready to rock Christmas this year! (not blogging;)  Just wanted to get one more post in before Christmas!

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas! 

Hot Cocoa Fudge Brownies
Recipe Source: The Sweet {Tooth} Life
Yield: 24 servings

Brownies:
1 box fudge brownie mix
2 eggs
1/3 cup brewed coffee
1/2 cup oil
1 cup chocolate chips

Hot Cocoa Frosting:
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup hot cocoa mix
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 + 1/4 cup flour
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla

1 cup mini marshmallows, for topping (not pictured)

Preheat oven to 350 and lightly grease 9x13 pan.  Beat first four brownie ingredients together.  Stir in chocolate chips and spread into prepared pan.  Bake for time directed on box (I did 27 minutes)
For frosting:  Beat butter,  hot cocoa mix, sugar, and flour together, add milk gradually.  Stir in vanilla.  Spread frosting over cooled brownies.  Please top with mini marshmallows, even though I didn't!

Once again, Merry Christmas, and remember, no matter how cliche, who the reason for the season is!