The magic of the holiday season is best shared through little moments, like baking together in a cozy kitchen filled with the scent of chocolate and cheer. These Christmas Brownie Trees are a delightful way to spread joy—they’re easy to make, fun to decorate, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or looking for a thoughtful homemade gift, these treats will quickly become a holiday favorite!
Ingredients for Your Christmas Brownie Trees
For the brownies
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup chocolate chips
For the buttercream frosting
- 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- Green and red food coloring
- Candy canes, cut into thirds
- Assorted sprinkles and candy for decorating
How to Make Christmas Brownie Trees
1. Prep Your Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Butter two 8-inch round cake pans, then line them with parchment paper circles to ensure the brownies don’t stick.
2. Mix the Brownie Batter
In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, vanilla, and eggs, whisking until smooth. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips for an extra touch of decadence.
3. Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans, smoothing the tops. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the brownies cool completely in the pans on wire racks, about 1 hour.
4. Shape Your Trees
Once the brownies have cooled, remove them from the pans and use a sharp knife to cut each circle into 8 even triangles. Carefully lift the triangles with a spatula to avoid breaking them.
Deck the Halls (and the Brownies!)
5. Make the Frosting
In a large mixing bowl, beat the confectioners’ sugar, softened butter, and salt on low speed until combined. Add the vanilla extract and milk, a tablespoon at a time, until the frosting is creamy and spreadable. Mix in green food coloring (and a drop of red for depth) to create the perfect Christmas tree green.
6. Add the Candy Cane Trunks
Using a paring knife or skewer, poke a small hole into the base of each brownie triangle. Insert a piece of candy cane into each hole to form the trunk of your tree.
7. Frost and Decorate
Fill a piping bag with the green frosting and cut a small tip. Pipe the frosting in a zigzag motion from the bottom to the top of each tree. Decorate with sprinkles, mini candies, or edible glitter to add that festive sparkle.
Make Them Magical
- Serve the brownies at your holiday party for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Wrap each brownie in clear cellophane with a ribbon to create charming edible gifts.
- Pair these treats with a steaming cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy evening by the fire.
Tips for Festive Success
- Get the kids involved—decorating these trees is a fun activity for the whole family!
- For a peppermint twist, add a dash of peppermint extract to the frosting.
- If you’re short on time, you can use a boxed brownie mix and focus on the decorating.
Credits and Inspiration
This recipe is inspired by the delightful Food Network Christmas Brownie Trees. You can find the original recipe and more festive ideas here at https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/christmas-brownie-trees-3561589
This holiday season, let the joy of baking bring your family and friends together. These Christmas Brownie Trees are more than just a treat—they’re a sweet tradition in the making. So, roll up your sleeves, turn on your favorite carols, and let the holiday spirit shine through your creations.
Merry Christmas and happy baking!