1 box brownie mix, prepared according to package directions
24 large fresh strawberries, washed and hulls removed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
2 tablespoons milk
1/4 cup white chocolate chips for the hat pom-poms
Instructions
Preheat your oven according to the brownie mix instructions. Prepare a mini-muffin tin by greasing it or using paper liners. Fill each cup about two-thirds full with brownie batter and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the brownies cool completely before attempting to assemble the hats so the frosting does not melt.
While the brownies cool, wash your strawberries and pat them dry thoroughly. Cut off the leafy green tops to create a flat base for each strawberry. Ensure the strawberries are dry to help the frosting adhere better to the fruit surface.
In a medium bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alcohol-free vanilla extract, and milk. Beat the mixture until it is thick and pipeable. Transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with a small round or star tip.
Pipe a ring of frosting onto the top of each cooled brownie bite. Place a strawberry, flat side down, onto the frosting ring. Press down gently so the frosting oozes out slightly to look like the white fur trim of a Santa hat.
Pipe a tiny dot of frosting onto the pointed tip of each strawberry. Place a single white chocolate chip or a small pearl of frosting on top to represent the pom-pom of the hat. Your festive treats are now ready to serve to your guests.
