Pre-heat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13 pan with parchment paper and set aside.
Combine the flour, sugar, cocoa and salt in a large bowl.
Place 2 1/2 cups chocolate chips with the butter in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir and then continue microwaving in 15 second increments until melted. Stir into the flour mixture.
Next stir in the eggs and mix until well combined. Lastly, stir in the vanilla and 1/2 cup chocolate chips.
Pour brownie batter into the pan and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes clean.
Remove from oven and allow to cool. Cut into rectangles.
For the santa bars, draw a line of red frosting down the center of the brownie. Then cut the licorice to the same size of the brownie and press on top of the frosting. Next break the pretzel into small squares and apply a little bit of frosting and stick on top of the licorice.