Christmas Tree Brownies: A Festive Treat for the Holidays

Christmas is a time for sharing joy, and what better way to spread cheer than with Christmas Tree Brownies? These delicious, fudgy brownies are decorated to look like festive Christmas trees, making them the perfect treat for holiday gatherings, gift exchanges, or a fun baking activity with kids. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, these brownies are as fun to create as they are to eat.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to make Christmas Tree Brownies step by step, offer tips for decorating, and share ideas for adding your own creative touch. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love Christmas Tree Brownies

• Easy to Make: Start with your favorite brownie recipe or mix, then decorate to transform them into festive trees.
• Fun for All Ages: Kids and adults alike will enjoy making and decorating these whimsical treats.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings, colors, and decorations to make them uniquely yours.
• Perfect for Parties: These brownies are a show-stopping dessert that doubles as a holiday centerpiece.

Ingredients for Christmas Tree Brownies

Here’s what you’ll need to make and decorate these festive brownies:

For the Brownies:

• 1 box of brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the package) or your favorite homemade brownie recipe
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional, for a holiday flavor twist)

For Decorating:

• 1 cup green frosting (store-bought or homemade buttercream)
• Holiday sprinkles (stars, snowflakes, or colored sugar)
• Mini candy canes (halved to create tree trunks)
• Optional: Colored icing or gel for extra designs

How to Make Christmas Tree Brownies

Step 1: Bake the Brownies

1. Preheat your oven according to your brownie mix or recipe instructions.
2. Line an 8×8 or 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
3. Prepare the brownie batter as directed. Stir in the peppermint extract if using for a festive twist.
4. Bake according to the instructions. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before decorating.

Step 2: Cut the Brownies into Trees

1. Once cooled, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment overhang.
2. Use a sharp knife or a triangular cookie cutter to cut the brownies into triangles. (If using a knife, cut horizontal rows first, then cut each row into triangles.)
3. Insert a halved mini candy cane into the base of each triangle to act as the tree trunk.

Step 3: Decorate the Trees

1. Fill a piping bag or a plastic sandwich bag with green frosting. Snip the tip of the bag to create a small opening.
2. Pipe zigzag lines across each brownie triangle to mimic garland on a Christmas tree.
3. Add holiday sprinkles, stars, or colored candies to decorate your “trees.”

Step 4: Add Finishing Touches

1. Use additional colored icing or gel to draw ornaments, lights, or a star on top of each tree.
2. Let the frosting set for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Christmas Tree Brownies

• Use Fudgy Brownies: Fudgy brownies hold their shape better and create a rich, indulgent base for your decorations.
• Cool Completely: Ensure the brownies are fully cooled before cutting to prevent crumbling.
• Line Your Pan: Using parchment paper makes it easy to lift the brownies out for cutting.
• Use a Toothpick for Details: For small designs like lights or garlands, a toothpick dipped in colored icing can help create fine details.

Creative Variations

Gluten-Free Option

• Use a gluten-free brownie mix or recipe to make these treats accessible to everyone.

Add Flavors

• Stir in crushed candy canes, white chocolate chips, or dried cranberries to the batter for extra holiday flavor.

Colorful Frosting

• Instead of green frosting, use a variety of colors to create a whimsical Christmas forest.

Edible Glitter

• Add edible glitter or shimmer dust for a sparkling, magical effect.

How to Store Christmas Tree Brownies

• Room Temperature: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving.
• Freezer: You can freeze undecorated brownies for up to 3 months. Thaw, decorate, and serve when ready.

Final Thoughts: Festive Fun for Everyone

Christmas Tree Brownies are more than just a dessert—they’re a fun and creative way to celebrate the holiday season. With their festive decorations and delicious taste, they’re perfect for sharing joy with friends and family. Whether you’re baking with kids or crafting a show-stopping dessert for a holiday party, these brownies are sure to impress.

So grab your ingredients, don your apron, and get ready to bake up some holiday magic!

Tried making these Christmas Tree Brownies? Share your creations and decorating ideas with us in the comments or on social media! Don’t forget to tag us—we’d love to see your festive treats!