The holiday season is always the perfect time for sweetness, warmth, and cheer, and what better way to celebrate than with whimsical Christmas Tree Brownies? These delightful treats are not only visually appealing but also incredibly simple to create. With each bite of fudgy brownie coated in vibrant green almond bark and adorned with festive sprinkles, you can bring a touch of merry magic to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, bringing a treat to a potluck, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these brownies encapsulate the spirit of Christmas in a fun, edible form.
Why We Love This Christmas Tree Brownies Recipe
There’s so much to adore about these Christmas Tree Brownies. Firstly, they are a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The rich, chocolaty base of the brownies pairs beautifully with the creamy sweetness of the almond bark. The addition of green food coloring brings a touch of holiday flair, making them fun for kids and adults alike.
Secondly, they are super easy to make. Even if you are not an experienced baker, you can whip these up with minimal fuss. The brownie mix helps to streamline the process, ensuring you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festive season. Additionally, decorating the brownies allows for endless creativity; everyone can customize their trees with favorite sprinkles and toppings, turning this into a fun family activity.
Lastly, Christmas Tree Brownies make for an excellent solution for holiday gift-giving. They are portable, easy to pack, and visually stunning—making them the perfect edible gift to share with friends, family, or holiday hosts.
Ingredients for Christmas Tree Brownies
Creating these festive delights requires a handful of accessible ingredients, most of which you may already have in your pantry. Here’s what you need to bring your Christmas Tree Brownies to life:
- 18.4 ounce box of brownie mix
- 2/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 large eggs
- 12 ounces of white almond bark
- Green food coloring
- Holiday sprinkles
- Star sprinkles
When you gather these ingredients, you’re one step closer to baking a festive masterpiece that will impress everyone around you.
How to Make Christmas Tree Brownies Directions
To create your Christmas Tree Brownies, follow these simple steps that will guide you through the baking process seamlessly.
- Prepare Your Baking Pan: Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the brownie mix box. While waiting, line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will help you easily remove the brownies once they’re baked.
- Mix the Brownie Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the contents of the brownie mix with vegetable oil, water, and eggs. Stir the mixture until it is well combined, but be careful not to over mix.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Bake the brownies for approximately 26 minutes or until they pass the toothpick test—insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, they’re done.
- Cool the Brownies: Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. For quicker results, you can expedite this process by placing them in the freezer for about 30 minutes.
- Cut Out Your Trees: After the brownies have cooled, use a 2-3 inch circular cookie cutter to cut out brownie circles. Arrange these on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Prepare the Almond Bark: Divide the white almond bark into two separate bowls. Heat each bowl in the microwave until melted; stir frequently to avoid burning and achieve a smooth texture.
- Decorate with Drizzles: Take one bowl of melted almond bark and drizzle it over the brownie circles; this creates a delicious base.
- Create Christmas Trees: In the second bowl of melted almond bark, add a few drops of green food coloring and mix until the desired shade is achieved. Use this green almond bark to create tree shapes on top of the brownie circles.
- Add Festive Touches: Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle holiday-themed sprinkles over the almond bark trees, and top off with star sprinkles to add that finishing touch.
- Let Them Set: Allow the decorated brownies to sit until the chocolate hardens—typically about 30 to 60 minutes.
With these steps, you will have an array of delightful Christmas Tree Brownies that are sure to impress your guests and bring smiles to everyone who tastes them.
How to Serve Christmas Tree Brownies
When it’s time to serve your Christmas Tree Brownies, there are several delightful ways to showcase them. Arrange your brownie “trees” on a decorative platter or cake stand to create an eye-catching centerpiece for your holiday table. You can even add a touch of festive flair by surrounding them with faux snow or other holiday-themed decorations, such as pinecones or ornaments.
For an extra special touch, consider pairing your brownie trees with a warm beverage such as hot cocoa or spiced cider, creating a cozy atmosphere. If you’re serving them at a party, you could also cut them into a variety of shapes and sizes, making them easier for guests to grab and enjoy as they mingle.
Lastly, don’t forget to include fun labels or tags alongside your brownies, possibly sharing the recipe or a personalized holiday message. This adds a unique touch and engages your guests even further by making them feel connected to the joyful spirit of your baking.
Expert Tips: Christmas Tree Brownies
While this recipe is straightforward, a few expert tips can enhance your experience and result in even more delightful brownies.
- Use Quality Ingredients: While brownie mix makes it easy, using high-quality almond bark can significantly affect the taste and texture. Look for brands that use real cocoa butter for the best results.
- Chill for Precision: Ensuring your brownies are completely cooled before cutting is crucial. If you rush this step, you may end up with crumbly edges and uneven shapes. Chilling them also helps the almond bark set more quickly.
- Customize Colors: Feel free to get creative with your colors! You can use different food colorings to create a variety of shades for your trees or even make multi-colored effects by layering the green almond bark.
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite toppings. Mini marshmallows, crushed candies, or edible glitter can enhance your brownies with different textures and flavors.
- Serve with Style: Consider presenting your Christmas Tree Brownies in a clear plastic bag tied with a festive ribbon if you plan to share them. This makes your treats portable and charming.
With these tips, you’re set to create standout Christmas Tree Brownies that will leave everyone wanting more!
How to Store Christmas Tree Brownies
If you find yourself with leftover Christmas Tree Brownies (which is rare), storing them properly can help maintain their deliciousness. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Cool Completely: Ensure all brownies are fully cooled and the chocolate is set before storing.
- Use Airtight Containers: Place the brownies in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh. Layer parchment paper between each layer if you have a large batch to prevent them from sticking together.
- Refrigerate for Longevity: For extended freshness, consider placing your container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to a week this way.
- Freeze for Long-Term Storage: If you want to keep them for a longer period, freezing is an excellent option. Individually wrap each brownie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw them in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy.
By following these storage tips, you can savor the festive flavors of your Christmas Tree Brownies long after they have been made.
Variations of Christmas Tree Brownies
While the classic Christmas Tree Brownie is delightful, don’t forget about the possibilities for variations! Here are a few fun ideas to keep your dessert repertoire fresh and exciting:
- Peppermint Crunch Trees: Add crushed peppermint candies or candy canes to your sprinkles for a refreshing minty flavor that perfectly complements the chocolate.
- Chocolate Almond Bark: For those who prefer a richer chocolate flavor, swap the white almond bark for dark chocolate or milk chocolate almond bark.
- Nutty Brownies: Consider mixing in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into your brownie batter for added crunch and flavor depth.
- Fruit & Nut Topping: Instead of traditional sprinkles, top your trees with dried fruits or toasted coconut for a unique twist that adds texture and sophistication.
- Mini Tree Brownies: For bite-sized treats, use a smaller cookie cutter and adjust the baking time accordingly. Mini tree brownies can be fun additions to holiday platters and are perfect for snacks.
By experimenting with different variations, you can create Christmas Tree Brownies that remain exciting and appealing, ensuring they remain a festive favorite year after year.
FAQ About Christmas Tree Brownies
What makes Christmas Tree Brownies special?
Christmas Tree Brownies stand out because of their whimsical appearance and delightful taste. They combine rich brownies with colorful decorations, making them a playful centerpiece for holiday celebrations.
Can I use homemade brownie recipes instead of a boxed mix?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade brownie recipe, feel free to use it as the base. Just ensure that the texture is suitable for cutting and decorating.
How do I make sure my brownies do not crumble when cutting?
Allowing the brownies to cool completely and chilling them in the freezer before cutting them will help maintain their shape. Using a clean, sharp knife or cookie cutter will also help achieve clean edges.
Can these brownies be made ahead of time?
Yes! These brownies can be made up to a week in advance and stored correctly. This makes them perfect for holiday preparations, allowing you to enjoy them without last-minute stress.
What are some good alternatives to almond bark?
If you prefer not to use almond bark, you can substitute with chocolate chips or a homemade chocolate glaze. Just make sure to follow proper melting techniques to achieve the desired consistency.
Christmas Tree Brownies
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 18.4 ounces box of brownie mix Choose your favorite brand.
- 2/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 large eggs Room temperature preferred.
Decoration
- 12 ounces white almond bark
- Green food coloring Add to taste.
- Holiday sprinkles Use assorted shapes.
- Star sprinkles For decoration.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the brownie mix box and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix with vegetable oil, water, and eggs. Stir until well combined, but avoid over mixing.
Baking
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and bake for approximately 26 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack, or place in the freezer for 30 minutes to speed up cooling.
Decoration
- Once cooled, use a 2-3 inch circular cookie cutter to cut out brownie circles and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Melt the white almond bark in two separate bowls in the microwave until smooth, stirring frequently.
- Drizzle one bowl of melted almond bark over the brownie circles to create a base.
- In the second bowl, mix in green food coloring to achieve the desired shade, then use it to create tree shapes on top of the brownie circles.
- Sprinkle with holiday-themed sprinkles and top with star sprinkles.
- Let them sit until the chocolate hardens, typically about 30 to 60 minutes.
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