Easy Christmas Tree Brownies Recipe
Indulge in the festive spirit with our delightful Easy Christmas Tree Brownies recipe. Perfect for holiday celebrations, these brownies capture the essence of Christmas with minimal effort and ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner looking to impress guests, this recipe is your go-to for holiday cheer.
Every holiday season, my family comes together to bake these charming treats. I remember the first time we tried it; my sister and I spent hours trying to perfect the tree decorations. Laughing and sneaking brownie bites, it became a beloved tradition. Baking these brownies always takes me back to those warm, joyous times surrounded by loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and festive appeal. You’ll love how each brownie slice is transformed into a charming Christmas tree, perfect for any holiday gathering. The recipe requires only common pantry ingredients, making it an accessible and fun activity for the whole family. The moist, rich chocolate base harmoniously complements the decorative icing and candies on top.
Ingredients Notes
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are likely already in your kitchen. Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer brownie flavor. For a more festive look, get creative with the decorations using various colored icing and sprinkles. If you have dietary restrictions, gluten-free flour can be an excellent substitute.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a square baking dish or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, and vanilla. Beat in eggs one at a time until smooth. Stir in cocoa, flour, baking powder, and salt until the mixture is just combined.
Step 3
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 4
Let the brownies cool completely before cutting them into triangular shapes to resemble Christmas trees.
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Step 5
Decorate each brownie “tree” with green icing, adding ornamental sprinkles and a star on top. Let the decorations set for at least 10 minutes.
Storage Options
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze undecorated brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw them at room temperature before decorating and serving.
Variations & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, try using avocado as a substitute for butter. To make the recipe vegan, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs and plant-based butter. You can also experiment with different nuts or dried fruits mixed into the batter for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful brownies after a festive dinner or during a holiday party. They also make great gifts when wrapped individually in decorative bags. Pair with hot cocoa or a festive cocktail for a complete holiday dessert experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these brownies ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the brownies a day or two in advance, but hold off on decorating until just before serving. This will keep your icing and toppings looking fresh and festive.
What if I don’t have piping bags for the icing? No piping bag? No problem! You can use a small resealable plastic bag with one tiny corner snipped off as an alternative solution for piping icing onto the brownies.
How do I prevent my brownies from turning out too dry? To keep your brownies moist, ensure you don’t overbake them. Check them a minute or two before the suggested baking time, as oven temperatures can vary. A good indication is when a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs rather than being entirely clean.
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Easy Christmas Tree Brownies Recipe
Rate This Yum Pin This Recipe For Later! Share The Yum On Facebook PrintIngredients
- For the Brownies:
- 1 box brownie mix plus ingredients called for on the box: usually eggs, oil, water
- – or –
- Use your favorite homemade brownie recipe baked in a 9x13-inch pan
- For Decorating:
- 1/2 cup green frosting or icing store-bought or homemade
- Sprinkles mini M&M’s, or edible stars for ornaments
- 12 small candy canes broken in half for the “tree trunks”
Instructions
- Bake the Brownies:
- Prepare and bake brownies in a 9x13-inch pan according to the box or recipe instructions. Let cool completely before cutting.
- Cut into Triangles:
- Cut the cooled brownies into long horizontal strips, then slice each strip into triangles to form tree shapes. You should get about 12 triangles.
- Add the “Tree Trunk”:
- Gently press a halved candy cane into the base of each triangle to create the trunk of the tree.
- Decorate:
- Use green icing to pipe garlands, zig-zags, or outlines onto each brownie. Add sprinkles or mini candies as “ornaments.” Let icing set.
- Serve or Gift:
- Arrange on a holiday platter, pack in treat boxes, or wrap individually for gifting!
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