For an extra fudgy brownie, underbake slightly. If you don't have a tree-shaped cookie cutter, use a knife to cut the brownies into squares or rectangles. Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Evoke the magic of the holiday season with these decadent Christmas Brownies! Rich, fudgy brownies are transformed into festive trees adorned with sweet, colorful frosting and sparkling candy decorations. A delightful alternative to traditional sugar cookies, perfect for sharing joy.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square baking pan. (5 minutes)
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. (3 minutes)
Gradually beat in the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. (2 minutes)
Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. (1 minute)
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with fudgy crumbs. Do not overbake. (30 minutes)
Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes. (20 minutes)
While the brownies cool, prepare the buttercream frosting: In a large bowl, cream the vegetable shortening until light and fluffy. (3 minutes)
Gradually add the confectioners' sugar, beating until smooth and creamy. (5 minutes)
Add the 3 fluid ounces of heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend on low speed until moistened. Add up to 1 additional ounce of cream, if needed, to reach desired consistency. (2 minutes)
Beat on high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy. (2 minutes)
Divide the frosting in half. In one bowl, mix in the green gel food coloring until you achieve your desired shade of green. (2 minutes)
Once the brownies are completely cooled, use a tree-shaped cookie cutter to cut out 8 Christmas tree shapes. (5 minutes)
Transfer the green and white frostings to piping bags fitted with decorative tips. Pipe the frostings onto the cooled brownie trees to resemble snow-covered branches. (15 minutes)
Decorate with assorted edible candies to add festive sparkle. (10 minutes)
Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the frosting to set before serving. (15 minutes)
For an extra fudgy brownie, underbake slightly. If you don't have a tree-shaped cookie cutter, use a knife to cut the brownies into squares or rectangles. Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.