Name: Festive Christmas Tree Brownies that WOW Your Holiday!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup butter (adds richness and moisture to the chocolate base); 2 cups sugar (sweetens the batter); 4 whole eggs (binds the ingredients together); 2 teaspoons vanilla (infuses a warm flavor); ⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (provides rich chocolate flavor); 1 cup all-purpose flour (gives structure while keeping them soft); ½ teaspoon salt (enhances the chocolate flavor); ½ teaspoon baking powder (helps the brownies rise); ½ cup butter, softened (creates a smooth and creamy frosting base); 4 cups powdered sugar (sweetens the frosting to perfection); 1 teaspoon vanilla (adds a hint of flavor to the frosting); 2-3 tablespoons milk (used to adjust the frosting consistency); green food coloring (transforms the frosting into a festive green); Christmas sprinkles (adds a fun, decorative touch)

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As the holiday season approaches, there’s a familiar warmth that fills the air—not just from the crackling fireplace, but from the delightful treats that brighten our celebrations. I discovered this irresistible recipe for Christmas Tree Brownies during my quest for festive desserts that could bring a smile to everyone’s face. There’s something truly enchanting about the way these vibrant, tree-shaped brownies come together, transforming the simplest ingredients into a crowd-pleaser.

Imagine the rich, chocolatey scent wafting through your kitchen as they bake, complemented by the joy of frosting and decorating each tree with colorful sprinkles. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply looking to enjoy some holiday spirit from the comfort of your home, these brownies are as fun to make as they are to eat. And the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to whip up, making them the perfect addition to your holiday tradition. Let’s dive into the delightful world of Christmas Tree Brownies and create something sweet together!

Why Are Christmas Tree Brownies So Special?

Fun and Festive: These brownies are the perfect way to celebrate the holiday spirit, with their bright green frosting and cheerful sprinkles that bring joy to any gathering.

Irresistible Flavor: A rich chocolate base topped with creamy, sweet frosting makes each bite a decadent treat that both kids and adults will love.

Easy to Make: Don’t worry if you’re not a baking pro—this recipe requires minimal skills and utilizes simple ingredients you likely have on hand.

Perfect for Sharing: Cut into tree shapes, they’re ideal for holiday parties or cookie exchanges, impressing friends and family alike.

Quick Prep: With a total time of just 60 minutes, you can whip up these festive delights without dedicating a whole afternoon to baking.

Enjoy spreading joy this season with a batch of Christmas Tree Brownies!

Christmas Tree Brownies Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup butter – adds richness and moisture to the chocolate base.
2 cups sugar – sweetens the batter, creating a delightful contrast to the cocoa.
4 eggs – binds the ingredients together, giving the brownies their fudgy texture.
2 teaspoons vanilla – infuses a warm flavor that complements the chocolate.
⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – provides that rich chocolate flavor crucial for Christmas Tree Brownies.
1 cup all-purpose flour – gives the brownies structure while keeping them soft.
½ teaspoon salt – enhances the chocolate flavor, balancing the sweetness.
½ teaspoon baking powder – helps the brownies rise, resulting in a tender texture.

For the Frosting

½ cup butter, softened – creates a smooth and creamy frosting base.
4 cups powdered sugar – sweetens the frosting to perfection and provides the right consistency.
1 teaspoon vanilla – adds a hint of flavor to the frosting, making it extra special.
2-3 tablespoons milk – used to adjust the frosting consistency to your liking.
Green food coloring – transforms the frosting into a festive green to mimic Christmas trees.
Christmas sprinkles – adds a fun, decorative touch that delights both the eyes and the palate.

How to Make Christmas Tree Brownies

Preheat the oven to 350º Fahrenheit. This ideal temperature ensures your brownies bake evenly, giving them that perfect fudgy texture.
Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by spraying it with cooking spray. This step prevents sticking, making it easy to remove your delicious treats later.
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s completely melted and bubbling.
Whisk in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture looks smooth and glossy.
Incorporate the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Whisk until you achieve a velvety batter with no lumps for your rich brownies.
Transfer the batter into your prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly, ensuring every corner is filled with that luscious chocolate goodness.
Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean but not overbaked, maintaining the fudgy center.
Cool completely before cutting. Allow the brownies to rest in the pan while they reach room temperature, ensuring the perfect cutting experience.
Cut the cooled brownies into 4 rows, creating 5 triangles in each row. You’ll have delightful brownie trees, with a half-triangle left on each end.
Cream the butter and powdered sugar together in a medium mixing bowl to prepare the frosting. This creates a smooth base for your decorative topping.
Add 2 tablespoons of milk and vanilla to the mixture. Beat well until the frosting is fluffy and semi-thick, perfect for spreading.
Adjust the frosting consistency as needed. If too thick, add more milk; if too thin, sprinkle in more powdered sugar until you reach your desired texture.
Color your frosting by adding green food coloring. Mix until you achieve that lovely festive hue reminiscent of Christmas trees!
Pipe the frosting onto each brownie using a large ziplock bag. Cut off a small corner of the bag for an easy and fun decorating process.
Sprinkle holiday sprinkles over each brownie while the frosting is still soft. This adds a joyful finish, making them extra festive!

Optional: Use mini chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey decoration!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Christmas Tree Brownies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this festive recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Enjoy the same delightful texture without the gluten.
Nutty Delight: Fold in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for added crunch and a rich, nutty flavor.
Minty Fresh: Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the frosting for a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil, eggs with flax eggs, and use non-dairy milk for a delicious plant-based option.
Fruity Surprise: Top with a few berries or candied fruit before adding frosting for a pop of color and natural sweetness.
Spicy Kick: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper to the brownie batter for a warm, spicy surprise.
Chocolate Overload: Use chocolate frosting instead of vanilla for an intensely chocolatey experience that chocolate lovers will adore.
Decorative Themes: Change the color of the frosting to red or white using food coloring and top with themed sprinkles for different holidays or celebrations.

Tips for the Best Christmas Tree Brownies

Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to test the brownies in the center; they should be slightly moist but not undercooked for the perfect fudgy texture.
Avoid Overmixing: When incorporating dry ingredients, mix just until combined to prevent tough brownies. Remember, a little lumpiness is okay!
Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar to achieve the right thickness for piping—thick frosting holds its shape best on each tree.
Chill Before Cutting: For cleaner cuts, let the brownies cool completely. You could even pop them in the fridge for about 30 minutes before cutting into tree shapes.
Use High-Quality Cocoa: The flavor of your brownies will shine through when you choose a great quality unsweetened cocoa powder in your Christmas Tree Brownies recipe.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Christmas Tree Brownies are perfect for meal prep, making them a wonderful choice for busy holiday schedules! You can bake the brownies and allow them to cool completely up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and fudgy. The frosting can also be made ahead of time—just place it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, allow the frosting to sit at room temperature for a bit before piping it onto the brownies. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy stress-free festive baking that yields delicious results with minimal last-minute effort!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Tree Brownies

Room Temperature: Keep your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their moist texture and delicious flavor.

Fridge: If you want them to last a bit longer, store them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just make sure they’re covered to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: These festive treats can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a ziplock bag for extra protection.

Reheating: To enjoy your brownies warm, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. The flavor of your Christmas Tree Brownies will be just as delightful as the day you baked them!

What to Serve with Christmas Tree Brownies?

Indulge your holiday spirit by creating a vibrant feast that pairs perfectly with these delightful treats.

Festive Hot Chocolate: The rich chocolate flavor complements the brownies while adding a cozy warmth—top it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa for a magical touch.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the fudgy richness of the brownies, creating a delightful contrast with every bite.
Peppermint Bark: This crunchy, minty treat adds a refreshing flavor profile that enhances the sweet chocolate of the brownies—perfect for any holiday gathering!
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad brings a burst of color and bright acidity, cutting through the sweetness of the brownies while providing a refreshing twist. Enjoy as a light counterpart!
Mulled Wine: A warm glass of mulled wine offers a comforting spice that beautifully complements the chocolatey flavor, adding a festive touch to your dessert spread.
Spiced Nuts: A small bowl of spiced nuts introduces a crunchy texture and a hint of savory flavor, balancing the sweetness of your brownies for a delightful contrast.
Eggnog: This classic holiday drink adds a creamy and slightly spiced element, making it a festive companion to the rich and sweet brownies.
Gingerbread Cookies: Pairing these brownies with soft gingerbread cookies enhances the holiday spirit, merging chocolatey sweetness with delightful spices in each bite.
Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station for a fun, interactive dessert experience! Dip brownie pieces along with fruits for an indulgent treat everyone will love.

Christmas Tree Brownies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for Christmas Tree Brownies?
Absolutely! Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. When selecting eggs, look for ones that are clean and have a longer expiration date. As for butter, pick sticks that are fresh and have no discoloration. Always opt for unsweetened cocoa powder that’s not past its expiration date, as it enhances the rich chocolate flavor in your brownies.

How should I store leftover Christmas Tree Brownies?
You can store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, keep them in the fridge where they can stay fresh for about a week. Just remember to cover them well to avoid drying out. They taste best when they retain their moist texture!

Can I freeze Christmas Tree Brownies, and if so, how?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your festive brownies, first, cut them into individual pieces once they are completely cool. Wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, then place them into a ziplock bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the brownies in the fridge overnight and warm them in the microwave for just 10-15 seconds for the ultimate indulgent treat!

What if my brownies turn out too dry or crumbly?
Very! If your brownies are dry, they may have been overbaked. Next time, check them a few minutes before the recommended baking time. If they come out crumbly, consider using a little less flour, or check that you’re measuring accurately. If you find yourself with dry brownies, try serving them warm with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to bring them back to life.

Are Christmas Tree Brownies safe for dogs?
While the ingredients in Christmas Tree Brownies are not toxic to dogs, the sugar and butter content can be harmful in large quantities and may cause digestive upset. Therefore, it’s best to keep these treats for humans only! If you’re looking to make a dog-friendly treat, consider using oat flour and a mashed banana for a natural sweetener—your furry friends will love you for it!

Can people with nut allergies eat Christmas Tree Brownies?
Yes, most definitely! This recipe does not contain any nuts, making it a safe option for those with nut allergies, but always double-check your ingredients. If you’re concerned about cross-contamination, consider using certified nut-free products to ensure that your holiday baking remains safe and enjoyable for everyone at your gathering.