Christmas tree brownies

In my book, it’s never too early to start preparing for Christmas and we are always looking for that next cute Christmas dish. Have some fun and get the kids in on the Christmas spirit.

You will need:

1/2 cup unsalted butter

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup light brown sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 eggs

3/4 cup unsweetened

cocoa powder

1/4 tsp baking powder

1/2 cup all-purpose flour{{more}}

1 tub white vanilla frosting

Green food colouring

Small round sprinkles

Small star sprinkles

Candy canes

Method

Preheat oven to 350° and line a 9×9 (or 8×8) pan with parchment/wax paper or greased foil and set aside. In a large microwave-safe bowl, place butter, both sugars and cocoa powder. Microwave for 1 minute and 30 seconds or put in a small pot and heat on low for the required time. Stir very well and allow to cool for about 3 minutes before continuing. Add the eggs and vanilla and stir until incorporated. Pour in the flour and baking powder and mix until combined. The batter will be very thick. Pour mixture into prepared pan and bake for 25-27 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean. Allow brownies to cool completely in pan before frosting. Remove the brownies from the pan, and cut into triangles. (Cut in three rows, then cut in alternating diagonals, as shown in the photo). Unwrap the candy canes, and use a sharp knife to gently cut/break the candy canes into 1.5” long pieces. Press the sharper end of the candy cane into the bottom of the brownie triangles. Spoon out approximately 1/2 of the tub of icing into a bowl. Add green food colouring until you’re happy with the colour. Spoon the green icing into a zip lock bag. Seal the bag and cut off a small corner of the bag with sharp scissors. Starting at the top of the brownie triangles, gently squeeze out the icing in a curvy zigzag as you go down the tree. Add your favourite sprinkles and a small star sprinkle at the top. Enjoy!

How to cut brownies

Tip – If you’re always strapped for time, then feel free to buy a box of brownie mix and prepare as directed.