Festive Christmas Tree
BrowniesIntroduction
With the holiday season upon us, there’s no better time to embrace the festive spirit than with these delightful Festive Christmas Tree Brownies! Rich, chocolatey, and adorably decorated, these treats are perfect for bringing joy to any holiday gathering. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a special treat for yourself, these brownies will surely sprinkle some holiday cheer into your kitchen. Don’t forget to subscribe to receive the recipe by email, and let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Christmas Tree Brownies are everything you need in a holiday treat! They boast an incredibly rich chocolate flavor, are simple to prepare, and their charming design is loved by all ages. Perfect for creating memorable family moments or impressing at holiday parties, they make festive baking a breeze. Plus, decorating them can be a fun activity for everyone!
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Green frosting or icing
– Mini candy ornaments or sprinkles
– Pretzel sticks
Necessary Tools
– Large mixing bowl
– Whisk or electric mixer
– 9×13 inch baking dish
– Parchment paper
– Spatula
– Sifter
– Knife for cutting the brownies
– Piping bag for frosting (optional)
*ngredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to customize these brownies by substituting some ingredients. You can use dark chocolate cocoa powder for a richer flavor or add a touch of peppermint extract for a festive twist. For a gooey texture, consider mixing in chocolate chips or adding chopped nuts for crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder, then gradually blend them into the wet ingredients.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared dish, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick — it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
8. Cut the cooled brownies into triangles to shape the “trees.”
9. Decorate with green frosting, using candy ornaments or sprinkles for baubles, and add pretzel sticks as trunks.
10. Serve and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Pair these festive brownies with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of milk to complement their rich chocolate flavor. They’re also fantastic with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Pro Tips for Success
– Ensure the brownies cool completely before cutting for cleaner shapes.
– For easy frosting application, transfer icing to a piping bag with a small tip.
– Encourage creativity by letting others decorate with their own choice of ornaments and sprinkles!
Storing and Reheating
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you need to reheat, a quick 10-second microwave zap will refresh them beautifully.
FAQ Section
– Can I use a different frosting color?Absolutely! Feel free to use any frosting color that fits your holiday theme.
– Can these be made gluten-free? Yes, simply substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Conclusion
Bake these Festive Christmas Tree Brownies not only to satisfy your sweet tooth but also to embrace the joyous spirit of the season. Easy to make and even easier to devour, these treats will become a staple in your holiday baking tradition. Share your creations by leaving reviews or tagging them on social media — #ChristmasBaking!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per serving: 250 calories, 12g fat, 32g carbohydrates, 3g protein.
