Christmas Tree Brownies

When you don't have a lot of time but yet want to make something charming and festive, try these adorable Christmas Tree Brownies. They're simple to make, and the kids can even help decorate them!

Ingredients:

• Cooking spray
• 1 box brownie mix, plus ingredients called for on the box
• 3/4 c. (1 1/2 sticks) butter, softened
• 4 c. powdered sugar
• 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp. heavy cream
• Pinch kosher salt
• Green food coloring
• 6 candy canes
• Sprinkles, for decorating

Directions:

• Preheat the oven to 350oF. Line a 9" x 13" baking sheet with parchment, leaving a 2" overhang on all sides, and spray with cooking spray. Prepare the brownie mix according to the package guidelines. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the pan comes out with a few wet crumbs. Allow cooling completely.
• Beat butter until smooth in a large mixing basin with a hand mixer or in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat in the powdered sugar until mixed, then add the vanilla, heavy cream, and salt. (If you want a thinner consistency, add 1 tablespoon additional cream.) Green food coloring can be added until the desired color is achieved. Fill a piping bag fitted with a small open star tip with the mixture.
• Remove the brownie from the pan and cut it into three long rows, then into six triangles each, for a total of 18 triangles.
• Cut candy canes into 3" pieces and slide one into the bottom of each brownie to form a trunk.
• Pipe a zigzagging line on top of the brownie and decorate with sprinkles.