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These Christmas Tree Brownie Bites became my signature treat for holiday parties because they are adorable, delicious, and always make people smile. Each bite is a fudgy brownie topped with rich green vanilla frosting decorated to look like festive little trees. No matter your skill level, you will love whipping these up for a crowd or a cozy family movie night.
I first created these on a snowy December weekend when the kids were clamoring for something sweet. Now every year they ask for tree brownies as soon as we unpack the Christmas decorations.
Ingredients
- Brownie bites: Use homemade or store-bought both work for a foundation that is chewy and holds up to decorating make sure to choose a fudge-style brownie for best texture
- Vanilla buttercream frosting: Brings a creamy and sweet contrast to the brownies and is perfect for holding the decorations pick a butter with a good fresh aroma for richer flavor
- Green gel food coloring: Gives that vivid Christmas tree look a gel formula is best because it will not thin out your frosting
- Nonpareils and star sprinkles: Add crunch and color like ornaments and a shining tree topper for a festive finish pick bright sturdy sprinkles so they stay pretty
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bake and Cool the Brownies:
- Bake your brownie bites until just set for soft centers then cool completely so the frosting will not melt
- Color and Prepare the Frosting:
- Mix green gel coloring into your vanilla frosting until it reaches your desired shade then scoop into a pastry bag fitted with a large open star tip
- Frosting into Trees:
- Hold the brownie bite flat then pipe upward with gentle pressure swirling to mimic a tree shape
- Decorate Each Tree:
- While the frosting is still soft quickly add nonpareils as lights and gently press a star sprinkle on top
- Let Set and Store:
- Allow decorated brownies to set then loosely cover and keep in the refrigerator for freshness enjoy at room temperature for the best taste
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I love how the bright sprinkles give each tree its own personality. My daughter and I always try to outdo each other to see who can create the silliest tree face.
Storage Tips
Store brownie bites in a single layer in a shallow container loosely covered so the frosting does not flatten. They keep for up to three days refrigerated. To serve simply let them sit at room temperature for about ten minutes for the frosting to soften slightly.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use a boxed brownie mix or pick up bakery brownie bites for ultra convenience. Store-bought vanilla frosting also works in a pinch just beat in the food coloring until smooth and vibrant.
Serving Suggestions
Try arranging the brownie trees in a circular pattern on a white platter to mimic a wreath. For a cute dessert buffet create a forest scene by pairing with cupcakes frosted in snowy white.
Cultural and Holiday Context
Decorating Christmas treats together is a classic tradition that brings generations together. The tree motif celebrates the heart of many winter festivities and these bites are a modern twist on that iconic symbol.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use store-bought brownie bites?
Yes, store-bought brownie bites work well for this dessert and help save time during holiday preparations.
- → Which tip works best for piping the frosting?
The Wilton 1M tip creates defined swirls that resemble miniature tree branches when piping buttercream on brownie bites.
- → How should these be stored?
Keep them loosely covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness, and allow them to reach room temperature before serving.
- → Can I color the frosting without gel food coloring?
Gel food coloring gives the most vibrant color, but you can use liquid food coloring. Start with a small amount to avoid thinning out the frosting.
- → What alternatives can I use for decorations?
You can substitute nonpareils with mini chocolate chips, sanding sugar, or edible pearls for different decorative effects.