These Mint Chocolate Brownies are the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves the magical pairing of cool, crisp mint and rich, fudgy chocolate. With a base that’s perfectly dense and chocolaty, a fluffy mint buttercream center, and a glossy chocolate ganache topping, this dessert delivers a refreshing twist on a classic treat. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, special gathering, or just because your sweet tooth demands it, these brownies promise to be a showstopper every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of these Mint Chocolate Brownies is how each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering flavor, texture, and those stunning green layers. With a simple collection of essentials, you’ll create a dessert masterpiece every chocoholic will adore.
- Butter (unsalted): Provides a rich, creamy base for both brownie and mint layers—splurge on the best you can find for decadent results.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownie base and helps create that perfect chewy texture.
- Eggs (room temperature): Bind the batter together and add moisture for a fudgy bite.
- Vanilla extract: Balances sweetness and deepens the chocolate flavor profile.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: The secret to deep, irresistible chocolate flavor (don’t skimp on quality!).
- All-purpose flour: Just enough to structure the brownies, keeping them dense yet tender.
- Salt: Elevates all the flavors and ensures the brownies aren’t too sweet.
- Baking powder: Adds a slight lift, preventing the brownies from being too dense.
- Powdered sugar: The key to a silky, smooth mint buttercream layer.
- Milk: Brings creaminess and spreadability to the mint layer.
- Peppermint extract: The magic flavoring that creates that nostalgic, cool minty taste.
- Green food coloring (optional): Gives your mint layer that classic pastel green color—it’s fun and festive!
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt into a shiny ganache that tops each brownie.
How to Make Mint Chocolate Brownies
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. A prepared pan ensures your brownies come out easily with clean layers, so don’t skip this simple step!
Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together your melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and glossy. Next, add those room temperature eggs and vanilla extract—these help create a luscious, velvety batter. Then, gently stir in your cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder just until combined. Be sure not to overmix; this ensures tender Mint Chocolate Brownies with that just-right chew.
Step 3: Bake the Brownie Layer
Spread your brownie batter evenly in the pan and pop it in the oven for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for a toothpick inserted in the center to come out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs means ultra fudgy!). Set aside and allow the brownies to cool completely before moving on.
Step 4: Make the Mint Layer
Beat your softened butter until creamy, then slowly add powdered sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and a few drops of green food coloring for that iconic look. Whip until the mixture is thick and fluffy, then gently spread the mint buttercream over your cooled brownies. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes—this helps set the magical middle layer.
Step 5: Add the Chocolate Ganache
For an irresistible topping, melt your chocolate chips and butter together in the microwave using short bursts, stirring until silky smooth. Let it cool slightly, then pour evenly over your mint layer. Use a spatula to spread, then refrigerate for at least an hour (resist the urge to dig in early!). You want those Mint Chocolate Brownies perfectly set and ready to cut into delicious squares.
How to Serve Mint Chocolate Brownies
Garnishes
These brownies look gorgeous as-is, but a sprinkle of extra chocolate shavings, chopped Andes mints, or crushed mint candies on top of the ganache makes them irresistibly pretty. If you’re feeling festive, a dusting of powdered sugar creates a wintery look that’s perfect for holidays.
Side Dishes
For a truly decadent experience, serve Mint Chocolate Brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re making these for a crowd, pairing with fresh berries, hot coffee, or even a minty milkshake turns dessert time into a full celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut Mint Chocolate Brownies into neat squares or playful triangles for a dessert tray, or use mini cookie cutters for bite-sized shapes at parties. Wrap individual brownies in wax paper tied with ribbon for sweet gifts, or layer brownie cubes in a parfait with creamy pudding and whipped topping for an eye-catching trifle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These brownies keep wonderfully! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 5 days. The layers stay beautifully firm and flavors actually deepen as they rest—if you can resist for that long!
Freezing
Need to make Mint Chocolate Brownies ahead? Simply wrap whole slabs or individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep their fabulous taste and texture for up to 2 months. Just thaw before serving for a homemade treat anytime.
Reheating
If you like your brownies slightly warm, a quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave does the trick (just be careful with the ganache). Warmed Mint Chocolate Brownies pair perfectly with cold ice cream, making the chocolate even more aromatic and dreamy.
FAQs
Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?
Peppermint oil is much stronger than extract, so if swapping, use just a drop or two. Taste after mixing to make sure the mint flavor’s not overpowering—start small, you can always add more but can’t take it out!
Is the green food coloring necessary?
Not at all! The color is just for fun and visual impact. If you prefer a natural look or want to skip artificial dyes, your mint layer will still deliver all the flavor—just with a creamy white center.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! For a bigger batch, double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Watch the baking time closely, as a larger pan may need a few extra minutes in the oven.
How do I cut the brownies neatly?
For the cleanest cuts, chill the Mint Chocolate Brownies thoroughly so all layers are set, then run a sharp knife under hot water and wipe dry between each slice. This helps achieve those crisp, bakery-worthy edges.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
You certainly can—swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Most other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’ll have an allergy-friendly dessert everyone can enjoy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a memorable dessert with wow factor, Mint Chocolate Brownies truly deliver. Don’t be surprised if these become your signature treat! Give them a try, share with friends, and get ready for rave reviews with every bite.
Print
Mint Chocolate Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and refreshing mint with these Mint Chocolate Brownies. With layers of fudgy brownie, creamy mint filling, and a luscious chocolate ganache topping, these brownies are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Mint Layer:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- a few drops green food coloring (optional)
Chocolate Ganache Topping:
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix brownie batter: Whisk melted butter and sugar, add eggs and vanilla, mix in cocoa, flour, salt, and baking powder. Spread into pan and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Prepare mint layer: Beat butter, add powdered sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and food coloring. Spread over cooled brownies and refrigerate.
- Make ganache: Melt chocolate chips and butter, pour over mint layer and refrigerate until set. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- For extra minty flavor, top with chopped Andes mints or crushed mint candies.
- Store brownies in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
