Brownie Christmas Trees
I still remember the first time I made Brownie Christmas Trees—it was a delightful snowy evening, and the aroma of chocolate filled my kitchen. This festive twist on traditional brownies adds an element of fun and whimsy to holiday gatherings. They’re ideal for decorating with kids, making an unforgettable addition to your Christmas dessert table or a sweet treat for cookie exchanges. Imagine presenting a stack of gooey, chocolatey brownie trees topped with vibrant green frosting and sparkling holiday sprinkles—it’s a sight to behold!
Why make this recipe
What makes this recipe special
These Brownie Christmas Trees are not just delicious but also remarkably easy to make. Using a box of brownie mix cuts down prep time, making them an excellent choice for busy holiday schedules. Beyond their simplicity, the cookies offer a charming presentation that appeals to everyone—kids and adults alike. Need a festive dessert for that last-minute get-together? These brownie trees will win hearts and taste buds without burning a hole in your wallet.
"These brownie trees were a hit at our holiday gathering! They’re easy to make and look stunning. Everyone loved creating their own designs with sprinkles." — Happy Baker Review
How to make Brownie Christmas Trees!
The cooking process explained
Creating these festive treats is a straightforward process that even novice bakers can handle. Start by preparing a batch of brownies from your favorite mix. Once baked and cooled, the fun begins! You’ll cut the brownies into tree shapes, frost them with rich green icing, and decorate them as you wish. This is a perfect opportunity for creative expression and holiday spirit!
Ingredients
What you’ll need
Gather your ingredients before you start. For this festive treat, you’ll need:
- 1 box of brownie mix (any brand, BAKED and cooled)
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 C. vegetable oil
- 3 tbsp. water
- Green frosting (recipe follows)
- Holiday sprinkles
- Yellow star decorations
- Disposable piping bag
- Wilton Star tip (1m)
- 3 round cookie/biscuit cutters in varying sizes
- 2 C. powdered sugar
- 1/2 C. softened butter (to room temperature)
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp. milk
- Green food coloring
[Tip: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, there are brownie mixes available that cater to that need!]
Directions
Step-by-step instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired frosting consistency.
- Attach the star tip to the piping bag and fill it with your green frosting.
- Using your cookie cutters, gently cut out brownie circles in three different sizes.
- Start stacking the brownie circles from largest to smallest, each topped with a squeeze of frosting.
- For the tree’s top, add a dollop of frosting and place a yellow star on top. Finish by adding holiday sprinkles for that festive touch.
- Repeat the process with the remaining brownie circles.
How to serve Brownie Christmas Trees!
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving these brownie trees, presentation is key! Place them on a platter with some decorative sticks or small ornaments for a festive centerpiece. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast of textures. If you’re looking to include a variety of treats, serve them alongside peppermint bark or gingerbread cookies.
How to store
Keeping leftovers fresh
Store any leftover Brownie Christmas Trees in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you plan on making them ahead, try to frost them just before serving, so they retain their freshness. For longer storage, you can freeze the un-frosted brownie cut-outs in a sealed container for up to one month. Just thaw and frost prior to serving for the best taste.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
- Don’t rush the cooling! Make sure the brownies are completely cooled before cutting them into shapes. This ensures they won’t crumble when you cut them.
- Make your frosting colorful! Feel free to add more green food coloring for a vibrant display or even mix in other food colors for a fun twist.
- Use a spatula! If the brownie pieces feel too crumbly, a spatula can help lift them without breaking.
Variations
Creative twists
You can get inventive with these brownie trees! Consider adding various toppings like crushed peppermint or mini chocolate chips for a different flavor. For a more festive vibe, try using flavored frosting like mint or even sprinkles in holiday colors. If you want a healthier twist, consider incorporating nuts or dried fruit into the brownie batter before baking.
FAQs
Common questions
-
How long does it take to prepare?
The total time from mixing to serving is about an hour, including baking time! -
Can I substitute the brownie mix?
Absolutely! Make your brownies from scratch using your favorite recipe. -
What if I don’t have all the frosting ingredients?
You can use store-bought frosting or adjust the recipe by adding more milk if it’s too thick.
These Brownie Christmas Trees will surely become a beloved holiday tradition in your home. Happy baking!
Brownie Christmas Trees
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired frosting consistency.
- Attach the star tip to the piping bag and fill it with your green frosting.
- Using your cookie cutters, gently cut out brownie circles in three different sizes.
- Start stacking the brownie circles from largest to smallest, each topped with a squeeze of frosting.
- For the tree's top, add a dollop of frosting and place a yellow star on top. Finish by adding holiday sprinkles for that festive touch.
- Repeat the process with the remaining brownie circles.
