There’s something truly magical about the holiday season, and one of my absolute favorite traditions is baking festive treats that fill the house with warmth and delicious aromas. Among my go-to recipes is the stunning Christmas Tree Brownie Cookies! Trust me when I say, I’ve made these delectable delights more times than I can count, and each time they vanish faster than I can say, “Who wants a cookie?” They’re not just a hit with my friends and family; they’ve become a beloved staple at every holiday gathering. The combination of rich chocolate and festive flair is simply irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Tree Brownie Cookies
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these cookies baking in no time.
- Visually Stunning: Their festive tree shape will make your dessert table shine, impressing all your guests.
- Decadently Delicious: The fudgy texture combined with a rich chocolate drizzle creates a dessert experience you won’t forget.
- Customizable: Whether you love sprinkles, nuts, or a hint of peppermint, you can tailor these cookies to your taste.
- Perfect for Gifting: Package them up for friends and family as delightful holiday gifts that are sure to please.
The Secret to Perfect Christmas Tree Brownie Cookies
The secret to achieving perfect Christmas Tree Brownie Cookies lies in the quality of your chocolate and the baking time. I always use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips because they make a world of difference in flavor. When it comes to baking, be sure to keep an eye on them; underbaking slightly will ensure that fudgy texture we all crave. I promise, you can do this! Just remember to let them cool completely before adding the chocolate drizzle for that picture-perfect finish.
Rave Reviews from Friends and Followers
“These Christmas Tree Brownie Cookies are a holiday sensation! I made them for my office party, and everyone was raving about the chocolate drizzle!” — Sarah W.
“I never liked brownies until I tried these! They are so fudgy and delicious. My kids can’t get enough!” — Mike T.
“These cookies are not only beautiful but also the best brownies I’ve ever tasted. Thank you for this fantastic recipe!” — Jessica L.
Creative Variations to Try
- Mint Chocolate Twist: Add peppermint extract to the brownie batter for a refreshing flavor burst.
- Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and richness.
- Red Velvet Brownies: Substitute some cocoa with red velvet cake mix for a festive twist.
- Caramel Drizzle: Swap the chocolate drizzle for a luscious caramel sauce for a different flavor profile.
Bonus: For an extra holiday touch, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of the chocolate drizzle!
FAQs – All Your Questions Answered!
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake them a few days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
What can I use instead of cocoa powder?
If you don’t have cocoa powder, you can use unsweetened chocolate, just melt it down and replace it in a 1:1 ratio with the cocoa powder needed in the recipe.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store any leftover Christmas Tree Brownie Cookies in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for about 5-7 days!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! You can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Storage/Serving Tips
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- These cookies can last for up to a week at room temperature.
- For a special touch, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Perfect Occasions for Christmas Tree Brownie Cookies
- Holiday parties with friends and family.
- Cookie exchanges and festive gatherings.
- As gifts for neighbors or colleagues.
- Christmas morning treats for the family.
- New Year’s Eve celebrations to ring in the new year with sweetness!
The Complete Recipe
Thank you for your enthusiasm! Now, let’s get to the star of the show—the recipe for these amazing Christmas Tree Brownie Cookies!
Christmas Tree Brownie Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup chocolate drizzle (store-bought or homemade)
Tip: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy blending. This will help create a smooth batter that incorporates air for that light, fudgy texture.
Extend ingredients section: You can also consider adding mini marshmallows or crushed peppermint candies to the mix for a fun surprise in each bite!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring your brownies bake evenly. While the oven warms up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove it from the heat and stir in the sugar until well combined. This will give your brownies that rich, sugary flavor!
Step 3: Mix in the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate the vanilla extract, which brings a delightful aroma and enhances the overall flavor.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined — be careful not to overmix!
Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chocolate chips to ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. This step is key for that melty chocolate goodness in every bite.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Using a cookie cutter in the shape of a Christmas tree, scoop the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. Bake for 20-25 minutes. You want them to be slightly underbaked for that fudgy texture, so don’t be afraid to take them out a minute or two early!
Step 7: Cool and Drizzle
Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, drizzle the chocolate over the top in a decorative fashion. This is where the magic happens, so have fun with it!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Now, your Christmas Tree Brownie Cookies are ready to impress! Serve them at your holiday gatherings or wrap them up as gifts. Each bite will surely bring smiles all around.
Nutrition info (per cookie): Approximately 150 calories, 8g fat, 20g carbs, 2g protein.
Extend instructions: For a stunning presentation, consider adding edible glitter or festive sprinkles on top of the chocolate drizzle before it sets!
Final Thoughts
These Christmas Tree Brownie Cookies
