Description
These Mint Chocolate Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate with a refreshing peppermint twist. Baked to perfection with a moist texture, topped with a creamy mint layer and glossy chocolate ganache, they make a delightful dessert perfect for holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 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
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Mint Layer
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Green food coloring (optional, a drop)
Ganache
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the brownies after baking.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth and slightly creamy mixture.
- Add dry ingredients: Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined without overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
- Fold in flavor and chips: Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and peppermint extract evenly through the batter for that minty chocolate flavor.
- Bake the brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no raw batter.
- Cool completely: Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool fully in the pan to set the texture before adding toppings.
- Make the mint layer: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and a drop of green food coloring (if using) until smooth and spreadable. Spread this mint frosting evenly over the cooled brownies and chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Prepare the ganache: Heat the heavy cream until it is hot but not boiling, then pour it over the dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until the mixture is glossy and smooth.
- Apply the ganache: Spread the smooth ganache over the mint layer evenly and return to the refrigerator to chill until set, about 15-20 minutes.
- Slice and serve: Once the ganache is firm, slice the brownies into 9 squares and serve. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
- For a stronger mint flavor, add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter or frosting layer.
- White chocolate chips can be used in the batter for a sweeter contrast in flavor.
- Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
