These Christmas Tree Brownies are one of the cutest and most festive treats you can prepare during the holiday season. Soft, chocolatey, and rich, they start with a classic brownie base enriched with chopped hazelnuts for extra crunch and flavor. Once baked, the brownie slab is cut into tree shapes and decorated with bright royal icing and candies — a joyful activity that's perfect to make with kids or for a holiday party.
Whether you're preparing a Christmas dessert table, packing edible gifts, or simply looking for a fun weekend baking project, these brownies bring holiday magic to every bite.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Fun and eye-catching: Perfect for parties, school events, and Christmas gatherings.
- Easy to decorate: Great for kids and beginners.
- Rich and fudgy brownie base: Made even better with hazelnuts.
- Festive colors and flavors: A visual showstopper for the holidays.
- Perfect make-ahead dessert: Brownies stay moist for days.
What Are Christmas Tree Brownies?
Christmas Tree Brownies are simply brownies cut into tree shapes and decorated with colorful icing and candies. The idea transforms a classic, well-loved dessert into a holiday showpiece that’s both delicious and visually impressive. They can be decorated with royal icing, sprinkles, sugar pearls, or anything festive — a fantastic edible craft for December.
Cooking Tips
- For cleaner tree shapes, chill the brownie slab before cutting.
- Use gel food coloring for the brightest green icing.
- If your brownies are too soft to cut, freeze the slab for 15 minutes.
- Replace hazelnuts with walnuts or almonds for different flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes! The brownie base can be baked 1–2 days in advance. Decorate just before serving for best texture.
What if I don’t have a tree-shaped cookie cutter?
You can cut the brownies into triangles and decorate them like trees — equally adorable!
Can I use store-bought brownies?
Absolutely. This shortcut works great if you're short on time; just decorate them as directed.
How do I make the icing thicker or thinner?
Add more powdered sugar to thicken or a few drops of lemon water to loosen the icing.
Can kids help with this recipe?
Yes! Decorating the brownie trees is a fun Christmas activity for children.
How to Store
Store decorated brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To prevent smearing, place parchment paper between layers.
How to Freeze
Freeze undecorated brownies for up to 2 months.
Thaw, cut, and decorate before serving.
Ingredients
How to Make Christmas Tree Brownies
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In a bain-marie, melt the butter and dark chocolate over low heat. Add the cocoa powder, stir to combine, and remove from the heat. Let cool slightly.
In a bain-marie, melt the butter and dark chocolate over low heat. Add the cocoa powder, stir to combine, and remove from the heat. Let cool slightly.
In a bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until fluffy. Gradually pour in the melted chocolate mixture, mixing with an electric mixer. Add the flour and baking powder, then fold in the chopped hazelnuts with a spatula.
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In a bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until fluffy. Gradually pour in the melted chocolate mixture, mixing with an electric mixer. Add the flour and baking powder, then fold in the chopped hazelnuts with a spatula.
Line a 20×29cm baking tray with parchment paper and pour in the batter.
Bake at 180°C (360°F) for 20 minutes. The brownies should be set but still soft.
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Line a 20×29cm baking tray with parchment paper and pour in the batter.
Bake at 180°C (360°F) for 20 minutes. The brownies should be set but still soft.
Let the brownie slab cool completely, then transfer it to a cutting board.
Cut it in half horizontally, then use a tree-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the brownie trees.
Beat the egg white, lemon juice, and powdered sugar until thick and glossy.
Divide into two portions and add green food coloring to one half.
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Let the brownie slab cool completely, then transfer it to a cutting board.
Cut it in half horizontally, then use a tree-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the brownie trees.
Pipe white and green icing onto each brownie tree. While the icing is still soft, add colored candies as ornaments.
Dust lightly with powdered sugar for a snowy effect and enjoy!
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