Chocolate-Dipped Brownie Bites (Brownies)

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup butter
• 2 tablespoons water
• 4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons shortening
• red and green M&M's or red and green gumdrops or melted white chocolate chips or other christmas candies or candy sprinkles

Directions

1. 1

   For Brownies: In a saucepan, bring the sugar, butter and water to a boil over medium heat; remove from the heat.

2. 2

   Stir in 1 cup chocolate chips and vanilla; stir until smooth. Cool for 5 minutes.

3. 3

   Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

4. 4

   Combine flour, salt and baking soda; stir into chocolate mixture. Stir in 1 cup chocolate chips.

5. 5

   Pour into a greased 9-inch square baking pan. Bake at 325°F for 35 minutes or until set.

6. 6

   Cool completely. Place in the freezer for 30-40 minutes (do not freeze completely). Cut into squares.

7. 7

   For Coating: In a heavy saucepan or microwave, melt remaining chips with shortening; stir until smooth.

8. 8

   Using a small plastic fork with two middle tines broken off, dip brownies to completely coat; shake off excess.

9. 9

   Place brownies on waxed paper-lined baking sheets; immediately decorate with M&M's or other toppings as desired or drizzle with melted baking chips.

10. 10

    Let stand until set. Store in a sealed container in a cool place.