As the holiday season approaches, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement in the air, especially when it comes to baking! There’s a certain joy that fills the kitchen, reminiscent of childhood memories, as the aroma of chocolate wafts through the house. One of my favorite festive treats to whip up are these delightful Christmas Tree Brownies. They combine the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with a whimsical, holiday twist that’s perfect for gatherings or just as a fun family activity.
In just 10 minutes of prep time, you can transform a simple box brownie mix into these adorable, festive confections that kids and adults alike will love. Plus, they’re a breeze to decorate, making them a wonderful way to involve little ones in the holiday spirit. With vibrant green frosting and playful candy cane embellishments, these brownies not only taste incredible but also bring cheer to any table. So, let’s dive into this easy recipe that promises to make your holiday season even sweeter!
Why Love Christmas Tree Brownies This Holiday?
Quick Preparation: In just 10 minutes, you can whip up these delightful treats, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Festive Fun: The vibrant green frosting and festive decorations turn a simple dessert into a celebration, bringing joy to your festive table.
Kid-Friendly Activity: Involve the little ones! Decorating these brownies is a fun family activity that sparks creativity and holiday spirit.
Crowd-Pleaser: Rich, fudgy brownies topped with sweet frosting are sure to be a hit at any party or gathering, leaving everyone asking for seconds.
Adaptability: Easily swap colors or flavors, making these brownies a versatile treat for any holiday or occasion.
Get ready to create sweet memories with these Christmas Tree Brownies!
Christmas Tree Brownie Ingredients
• Make these festive treats even more delightful with the right ingredients!
For the Brownies
• Box Brownie Mix – This is your brownie base; choose your favorite brand for the best results.
• Butter (3/4 cup or 1 1/2 sticks) – Adds richness and moisture; be sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
For the Frosting
• Powdered Sugar (4 cups) – This sweet ingredient creates the smooth frosting texture essential for your Christmas Tree Brownies.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Elevates the flavor profile; a must for that extra delicious touch.
• Heavy Cream (2 Tbsp) – Helps achieve a creamy consistency for easy spreading.
• Kosher Salt (pinch) – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
For Decoration
• Green Food Coloring – Essential for giving your frosting that festive green hue.
• Candy Canes (6) – Crush these for a holiday crunch and festive flair on your brownies.
• Sprinkles – Add a fun pop of color to complete your delightful Christmas tree design!
How to Make Christmas Tree Brownies
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Prepare Brownies: Start by following the package directions for your brownie mix, incorporating the softened butter until fully combined. Pour the mixture into a greased baking pan and bake according to package instructions, typically around 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
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Make Frosting: In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and a pinch of kosher salt. Mix until you achieve a smooth consistency. Then, add a few drops of green food coloring until you get your desired festive shade.
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Cool Brownies: Once the brownies are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. This step is crucial to avoid melting the frosting!
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Decorate: After the brownies have cooled, spread a generous layer of green frosting over the top using a spatula. Create the shape of a Christmas tree, then sprinkle with crushed candy canes and colorful sprinkles to enhance the festive look.
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Slice and Serve: Cut the brownies into tree shapes or squares for a fun presentation. Serve them at your holiday gatherings, and watch everyone delight in your creation!
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Christmas Tree Brownies?
The festive spirit is in the air, and pairing these delightful treats with the right accompaniments will elevate your holiday gathering.
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Hot Chocolate Station: Create a cozy atmosphere with a hot chocolate bar, complete with whipped cream and festive toppings. The warmth and sweetness complement the rich brownies perfectly.
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Ice Cream Scoops: Serve vanilla or peppermint ice cream alongside for a classic combination that adds a refreshing contrast to the fudgy brownies. Each bite becomes a delightful mix of creamy and chocolatey bliss.
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Christmas Fruit Platter: A vibrant array of fresh fruits, such as strawberries and kiwi, brings a burst of color and a refreshing balance to the sweet, rich brownies. It’s a fun way to add a healthy element to your dessert table.
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Eggnog: This creamy holiday beverage pairs wonderfully, adding a lovely spiced richness that enhances the brownies. The traditional flavors of nutmeg and cinnamon create a joyful holiday atmosphere.
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Festive Spritz Cookies: Offer a plate of colorful, buttery spritz cookies as a delightful companion. Their light texture and sweet taste provide a nice contrast to the dense brownies, making for a varied dessert spread.
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Coffee: A warm cup of coffee or a spiced latte enhances the chocolate experience beautifully. The rich, earthy notes of coffee elevate the flavors of the brownies, making it a sophisticated choice for adult guests.
Choose a mix of these delightful options to create a festive, inviting atmosphere that will make your desserts truly shine this holiday season!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Tree Brownies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their holiday baking! You can prepare the brownies themselves up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe, allow them to cool completely, and then store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their fudgy texture. For the frosting, mix it ahead of time and refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 3 days. To keep the vibrant green color intact, allow the frosting to come to room temperature before decorating. When you’re ready to serve, just frost the brownies, add your crushed candy canes and sprinkles, and you’ll have a festive treat ready in no time!
Expert Tips for Christmas Tree Brownies
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Cool Before Frosting: Make sure your brownies are completely cool before frosting to avoid melting the green label; this ensures a clean and beautiful presentation.
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Use Quality Mix: While a box mix works well, opting for a high-quality brownie mix can elevate the flavor of your Christmas Tree Brownies, making them more delightful.
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Frosting Consistency: Adjust the heavy cream in your frosting to achieve your preferred thickness; a thicker frosting is easier to spread for tree shapes.
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Add Different Toppings: Experiment with various toppings like mini marshmallows or gummy candies to customize your Christmas Tree Brownies for your holiday theme.
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Store Properly: Keep brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best texture; they can dry out if left uncovered.
Storage Tips for Christmas Tree Brownies
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the brownies in the fridge, where they’ll last up to a week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: If you want to prepare ahead, freeze the undecorated brownies for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting, and they’ll taste freshly baked!
Reheating: If preferred warm, microwave a slice for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy a fudgy experience reminiscent of the holidays again!
Christmas Tree Brownies Variations
Feel free to explore these tasty twists to make your Christmas Tree Brownies uniquely yours!
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Colorful Frosting: Use different food coloring like red or blue for a playful twist. The festive vibe will still shine through with a change of hue.
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Minty Delight: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to your frosting for a refreshing mint flavor. It’s the perfect complement to rich chocolate!
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie mix for a delightful crunch. This variation adds texture that chocolate lovers will enjoy.
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Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips into the brownie batter before baking. The extra chocolate will make these brownies an indulgence you won’t forget.
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Gluten-Free: Swap the box brownie mix for a gluten-free alternative to accommodate dietary needs. Deliciousness shouldn’t be limited by dietary restrictions!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and nut milk in the frosting for those avoiding dairy. These brownies will still taste fabulous!
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Fruit Twist: Incorporate your favorite dried fruits, like cranberries or cherries, into the brownie batter. This brings in natural sweetness and a burst of color.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the brownie mix for a surprising heat. This will awaken the taste buds and excite your holiday palette.
Christmas Tree Brownies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my ingredients are fresh?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, ensure that your eggs are fresh by checking the sell-by date on the carton. For the butter, it should be a creamy yellow color without any dark spots or discoloration. Additionally, use powdered sugar that’s free from lumps, as this ensures a smooth frosting. For the brownie mix, always look for a well-sealed package with a clear expiration date.
How should I store my Christmas Tree Brownies?
Very! To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving so they can regain that delightful fudgy texture!
Can I freeze Christmas Tree Brownies?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the brownies to cool completely, then slice them into individual pieces. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
What if my frosting is too thick?
No worries! If your frosting is too thick, you can easily adjust it. Start by adding a teaspoon of heavy cream or milk to the frosting and mix until well combined. If it’s still too thick, repeat the process until you reach your desired consistency. A smooth, spreadable frosting is key to creating beautifully decorated Christmas Tree Brownies!
Are Christmas Tree Brownies safe for kids with allergies?
Great question! Since this recipe contains common allergens like eggs, dairy (butter, cream), and gluten (brownie mix), it’s important to check for any specific allergies before serving. If allergies are a concern, consider using gluten-free brownie mix or dairy-free butter alternatives. Always read the labels of all ingredients to ensure they are safe for your specific dietary needs.
What can I substitute for the green food coloring in the frosting?
Certainly! If you’d like to avoid food coloring, you can use natural alternatives such as matcha powder for a green hue or puree spinach to achieve a lovely color while adding a nutritious touch. If green isn’t a must, feel free to use a red food coloring or any other color that fits your festive theme. The more the merrier!
Delicious Christmas Tree Brownies: A Festive Family Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Brownies: Follow package instructions for the brownie mix, including incorporating softened butter. Bake in a greased pan at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Make Frosting: Mix powdered sugar, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and kosher salt until smooth. Add green food coloring to achieve desired shade.
- Cool Brownies: Let brownies cool completely in the pan to prevent melting frosting.
- Decorate: Spread green frosting over brownies, shape into Christmas trees, and decorate with crushed candy canes and sprinkles.
- Slice and Serve: Cut into tree shapes or squares for presentation.