These Brownie Christmas Trees are a festive, fun, and surprisingly easy treat to make for the holidays. Made from boxed brownie mix and topped with homemade green frosting, these sweet little tree-shaped towers are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. I love making these during the holidays as both a dessert and a fun activity, especially when I want something impressive but low-effort.

Brownie Christmas Trees

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple and semi-homemade—perfect for busy holiday prep. The boxed brownie mix saves time, and the homemade frosting adds that special touch. These brownie trees are incredibly cute, stackable, and perfect for decorating with family or serving at a holiday party. They’re great for both kids and adults, and I can customize them with different sprinkles or toppers. Plus, they just scream “Christmas spirit!”

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the brownies:

1 box of brownie mix (any brand), baked and cooled
2 eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 tablespoons water

For the frosting:

2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened to room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2–3 tablespoons milk
Green food coloring

Toppings and tools:

Holiday sprinkles
Yellow star toppers
Disposable piping bag
Wilton star tip (1M)
3 round cookie/biscuit cutters in varying sizes

Directions

First, I combine the powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract in a bowl.
I add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches my desired consistency—smooth but thick enough to pipe.
I mix in green food coloring to get that perfect Christmas tree green.
I attach the Wilton star tip to the piping bag and fill it with the green frosting.
Using the three different round cookie cutters, I cut out circles from the baked and cooled brownies—small, medium, and large.
I start by placing the largest brownie circle on a plate, pipe frosting on top, stack the medium one, pipe again, then finish with the smallest brownie circle.
I top the smallest brownie with a swirl of frosting to complete the tree shape.
I finish off with a yellow star on top and holiday sprinkles all around.
I repeat this process with the remaining brownies.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6–8 brownie trees, depending on the size of the cookie cutters and how many circles I can get from the baked brownie sheet.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: Follow the boxed brownie instructions (usually about 25–30 minutes)
Total Time: About 50–60 minutes including frosting and assembly

Variations

I sometimes switch it up by using chocolate frosting and adding crushed candy canes for a peppermint twist. For a snowy look, I sprinkle a little powdered sugar over the finished trees. If I want a richer flavor, I add a dash of almond extract to the frosting. And when I’m in the mood for sparkle, I use edible glitter instead of sprinkles.

Brownie Christmas Trees

Storage/Reheating

I store these brownie trees in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. If I refrigerate them, I let them come to room temperature before serving. I don’t recommend reheating, as it can melt the frosting and topple the tree structure.

FAQs

How do I keep the brownie trees from falling over?

I make sure to use a thick frosting consistency so it acts like glue between the layers. Also, I gently press each brownie circle down to secure the stack.

Can I use homemade brownies instead of boxed mix?

Absolutely. I’ve done it both ways. If I have time, I whip up a batch from scratch, but the boxed version works just as well for this fun, decorative treat.

What can I use instead of a piping bag?

If I don’t have a piping bag, I use a zip-top bag and snip off a corner. I just make sure the opening isn’t too large for precise piping.

Can I freeze these brownie trees?

I wouldn’t recommend freezing them fully assembled. However, I’ve frozen the brownie circles ahead of time, then thawed and decorated them later.

What other toppings can I use?

I like mixing it up with mini M&Ms, edible pearls, or even shredded coconut for a snow-dusted effect. Anything festive works!

Conclusion

These Brownie Christmas Trees are one of my go-to holiday desserts when I want something festive, fast, and fun to make. The combination of chewy brownies, creamy frosting, and bright decorations makes these little trees a big hit every time. Whether I’m making them with kids or prepping for a party, they always bring cheer—and plenty of compliments!