Mint Chocolate Brownies
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Mint Chocolate Brownies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances rich, fudgy chocolate and a refreshing hint of mint. This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my kitchen, often making appearances during holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or just when I need a pick-me-up. The combination of smooth chocolate and invigorating mint makes these brownies not just a dessert, but a celebration of flavor. Whether you’re impressing guests at a dinner party or satisfying your own sweet tooth, these brownies are sure to delight.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes these Mint Chocolate Brownies truly special is their versatility and appeal. They strike a harmonious balance between indulgence and freshness. With layers of decadent chocolate and a minty frosting, these brownies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive family gathering or a casual treat after dinner.
“These brownies were the hit of our holiday party! The mint flavor is just perfect, and everyone kept asking for the recipe!” — A satisfied home baker
The cooking process explained
Making Mint Chocolate Brownies is easier than you might think. The recipe breaks down into three main components: the fudgy brownie base, a creamy mint frosting, and a luscious chocolate ganache. Each step builds on the other, resulting in a delectable treat that’s worth every moment spent in the kitchen.
Gather these items
To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup salted butter
- 4 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup salted butter (softened)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 10 drops food coloring (for a festive touch)
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
Feel free to swap in unsweetened chocolate if you prefer a less sweet brownie, or use dairy-free butter and milk for a vegan option.
Step-by-step instructions
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Preheat your oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
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Make the brownie batter: In a saucepan, melt 1 cup salted butter and 4 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips over medium heat. Stir until smooth. Remove from heat and mix in 2 cups granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then stir in 4 large eggs one at a time. Finally, add 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
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Bake the brownies: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely in the pan.
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Prepare the mint frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together ¾ cup softened salted butter, 3 cups powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream, 1 teaspoon peppermint extract, and 10 drops of food coloring until fluffy. Spread this mint frosting evenly over the cooled brownies.
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Create the ganache: In a saucepan, combine 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons butter and ½ cup heavy whipping cream. Heat over low heat, stirring until melted and smooth. Pour the ganache over the frosted brownies, spreading it out evenly.
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Chill and serve: Refrigerate the brownies for at least an hour, then cut into squares and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
To serve your Mint Chocolate Brownies, consider dusting them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the chocolate and mint flavors. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing mint tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Mint Chocolate Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully! Just wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
When enjoying leftovers, revive their fudginess by popping them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Pro chef tips
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Use high-quality chocolate: The better the chocolate, the richer your brownies will taste. Investing in good semi-sweet chocolate chips makes a difference.
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Let them cool completely: This prevents the brownies from crumbling when you cut them. It also allows time for the flavors to meld.
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Experiment with mint intensity: If you love a stronger mint flavor, feel free to add more peppermint extract to the frosting, but be careful not to overpower it.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Try these variations on your Mint Chocolate Brownies:
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Nutty goodness: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for a lovely crunch.
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Mint varieties: Swap peppermint extract for orange extract for a refreshing twist, or use a mix of extracts to get a unique flavor profile.
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Decoration: Top the brownies with crushed candy canes for a festive holiday look or drizzle with white chocolate for a contrasting color.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
The total prep and bake time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including cooling time before frosting.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While it’s best to use butter for flavor and texture, you can use margarine in a pinch. Just be aware that the taste may differ slightly.
How do I prevent my brownies from sticking?
Using parchment paper to line your baking pan is a foolproof way to prevent sticking, making for easy removal.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in an airtight container; they actually taste better the day after they’re made as the flavors have time to meld.
With their layered textures and delicious minty flavor, these Mint Chocolate Brownies are bound to become a go-to recipe that satisfies your cravings and impresses your friends and family!
Mint Chocolate Brownies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan, melt 1 cup salted butter and 4 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips over medium heat. Stir until smooth.
- Remove from heat and mix in 2 cups granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Stir in 4 large eggs, one at a time.
- Add 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour until just combined and pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together ¾ cup softened salted butter, 3 cups powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream, 1 teaspoon peppermint extract, and 10 drops of food coloring until fluffy.
- Spread the mint frosting evenly over the cooled brownies.
- In a saucepan, combine 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, 2 tablespoons butter, and ½ cup heavy whipping cream.
- Heat over low heat, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Pour the ganache over the frosted brownies, spreading it out evenly.
- Refrigerate the brownies for at least an hour.
- Cut into squares and enjoy!
