Christmas Tree Brownies with Chocolate Buttercream Recipe
Imagine transforming your holiday dessert table into a sparkling winter wonderland with an unforgettable treat: Christmas Tree Brownies with Chocolate Buttercream. These brownies are as rich as they are whimsical, with a velvety chocolate base and swirls of creamy buttercream piped to resemble festive evergreens. Whether you’re baking these with kids, gifting them to neighbors, or simply treating yourself, this recipe brings together everything you love about the holidays: indulgence, joy, and a sprinkle of sparkle.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Christmas Tree Brownies with Chocolate Buttercream is that each ingredient serves a purpose, contributing either deep chocolate flavor, creamy richness, or a touch of holiday glamour. Even though this recipe looks spectacular, you’ll be delighted by how accessible and straightforward the ingredient list is.
- Dark chocolate (150g, chopped): Provides a deep, slightly bitter cocoa base that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Unsalted butter (120g for brownies, 200g for buttercream): Adds moisture, richness, and buttery flavor both to the brownies and the indulgent piped frosting.
- Sugar (200g): Sweetens the brownies and helps create a shiny, crackly top.
- Eggs (2 large): Act as a binding agent, ensuring the brownies hold together while staying soft and fudgy.
- Vanilla extract (2 tsp total): Enhances the chocolate flavor and adds warmth; use in both brownie batter and buttercream.
- All-purpose flour (90g): Just enough structure to hold the brownies without drying them out.
- Cocoa powder (25g for brownies, 2 tbsp for buttercream): Deepens the chocolate taste and helps develop that fudgy texture.
- Pinch of salt: A tiny amount that makes all the flavors pop.
- Powdered sugar (300g, sifted): Ensures the buttercream is silky smooth, not grainy.
- Dark chocolate for buttercream (100g, melted and cooled): Gives extra depth and glossy richness to the buttercream.
- Milk or cream (2–3 tbsp): Loosens the buttercream for perfect piping consistency—add bit by bit.
- Edible gold pearls or sprinkles: To mimic ornaments and add a luxurious holiday vibe.
- Small edible stars: Crown each “tree” for maximum cuteness factor.
- Gold dust (optional): A light shimmer brings your brownies from delicious to downright magical.
How to Make Christmas Tree Brownies with Chocolate Buttercream
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Brownie Base
Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F) and lining a square baking pan with parchment paper—this makes lifting out the brownies a breeze and keeps them intact for decorating. Melt the butter and dark chocolate together, stirring gently until the mixture is glossy and smooth (you can do this in a microwave or over a saucepan of simmering water). Whisk in the sugar, followed by the eggs and vanilla extract, to create a beautifully shiny batter. Sift your flour, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt directly into the bowl; gently fold everything together, being careful not to overmix. The batter will be thick and luscious. Pour it into your prepared pan, smoothing the top, and bake for 20–25 minutes. You want the brownies to set but remain fudgy in the center. Let them cool completely in the pan before slicing into neat squares—the perfect canvas for your Christmas trees.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Buttercream
While your brownies are cooling, get started on the buttercream. Using a stand mixer or electric beaters, whip the softened butter until creamy and light—this step is key for an ultra-fluffy texture. Gradually sift in the powdered sugar, beating after each addition to keep things airy. Add in the cocoa powder, a generous splash of vanilla, and the cooled melted chocolate. This is what gives your buttercream its intense chocolate flavor and rich brown color. Add milk or cream, just a tablespoon at a time, until the mixture is smooth and easily pipeable. You should end up with a decadent, slightly glossy buttercream that holds its shape in peaks.
Step 3: Assemble and Decorate Your Christmas Tree Brownies with Chocolate Buttercream
Lay out your brownie squares on a serving platter or tray. Fit a piping bag with a large star tip and fill it with the prepared chocolate buttercream. Now for the fun part! Pipe generous, upward swirls on each brownie square, building them into charming little Christmas tree shapes. Go tall—it’s the holiday season, and these “trees” are meant to stand out! Once piped, decorate each tree with edible gold pearls or colorful sprinkles as ornaments, then gently press an edible star on top of each. For pure magic, finish with a light dusting of gold shimmer or edible glitter. Stand back and admire your dazzling forest of Christmas Tree Brownies with Chocolate Buttercream!
How to Serve Christmas Tree Brownies with Chocolate Buttercream
Garnishes
When it comes to dressing up Christmas Tree Brownies with Chocolate Buttercream, you don’t have to stop at gold pearls and stars. Consider adding festive sugar snowflakes, crushed candy canes for a minty crunch, or a gentle sprinkle of powdered sugar for a fresh snowfall effect. Each garnish adds a unique twist—they’ll look (and taste) like little works of edible art.
Side Dishes
If you’re serving these brownies at a holiday party or as part of a dessert buffet, pair them with mugs of hot cocoa, homemade eggnog, or spiced chai for extra coziness. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream alongside a Christmas Tree Brownie is sheer decadence. For a lighter touch, fresh raspberries or juicy orange segments add a tart contrast to all the chocolatey richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation really brings the Christmas Tree Brownies with Chocolate Buttercream to life! Arrange them on a white cake stand or a large platter dusted with coconut shavings to mimic snow. Individually plate them atop small squares of festive parchment for a party, or wrap each brownie tree in cellophane bags tied with ribbon—perfect for gifting and spreading holiday cheer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Brownies topped with chocolate buttercream are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen runs warm, pop them in the fridge, but always bring them back to room temperature before serving to recapture that luscious, fudgy bite.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze unfrosted brownie squares for up to three months. When ready to serve, simply thaw at room temperature and pipe the buttercream fresh. If you’ve already frosted and decorated your brownies, freeze them uncovered until solid, then wrap them individually—this helps preserve all those beautiful decorations.
Reheating
If you want to refresh your brownies after a day or two, microwave individual brownies for five to ten seconds—just enough to take the chill off without melting the buttercream. The chocolate centers become melty, and the buttercream softens for a just-baked feel. Avoid overheating so your trees keep their shape.
FAQs
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. The result is still fudgy and decadent, making Christmas Tree Brownies with Chocolate Buttercream inclusive for all your guests.
What’s the best way to get clean, even brownie squares?
For perfectly neat brownie pieces, let the baked brownies cool completely, then chill them in the fridge before cutting. Use a sharp knife, wiping clean between slices to keep the edges looking crisp and bakery-worthy.
Can I make the buttercream ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chocolate buttercream up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and let it come to room temperature before re-whipping briefly to fluff it back up for piping.
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Dark chocolate is traditional and gives these brownies their rich character, but you can use semi-sweet or even milk chocolate if you prefer a milder, sweeter taste. Just remember, the quality of the chocolate really shines in this recipe!
How do I transport Christmas Tree Brownies with Chocolate Buttercream without ruining the decorations?
For parties or gifting, assemble your brownies on a tray that fits snugly in a box to prevent sliding. If possible, wait to add delicate stars or shimmer until you reach your destination so everything looks fresh and fabulous on arrival.
Final Thoughts
These Christmas Tree Brownies with Chocolate Buttercream are pure holiday joy, and baking them will instantly put you in the festive spirit. They’re rich, beautiful, and a delight to share (or enjoy with a cozy mug of hot chocolate). Give them a try this season—you’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear and how many smiles they bring!
