Classic Mint Chocolate Brownies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect Balance: The rich chocolate base pairs wonderfully with the refreshing mint frosting, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
  • Decadent Layers: Each bite offers a trio of textures—from the dense brownie to the creamy mint layer, topped with a luscious ganache.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, these brownies are sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Brownie Layer:

    • Melt butter and semi-sweet chocolate together until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
    • Whisk in granulated and brown sugars.
    • Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
    • Fold in cocoa powder, flour, and salt until just combined.
    • Pour batter into a lined baking pan and bake as directed.
  2. Mint Frosting:

    • Beat softened butter until creamy.
    • Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract, mixing until smooth.
    • Spread over the cooled brownie layer and refrigerate until set.
  3. Chocolate Ganache:

    • Heat heavy cream until simmering, then pour over chopped chocolate.
    • Let sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth.
    • Pour over the mint frosting layer and refrigerate until firm.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: Approximately 24-30 brownies.
  • Prep Time: 1 hour.
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes.
  • Total Time: 6 hours (including cooling and chilling).

Variations

  • Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate alternatives.
  • Extra Minty: Add a few drops of green food coloring to the mint frosting for a festive touch.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • Freezing: These brownies freeze well; wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
  • Serving: For best taste, serve chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

What type of chocolate is best for the brownie base?

Semi-sweet chocolate is recommended for a balanced sweetness, but you can use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.

Can I use peppermint extract instead of mint extract?

Yes, peppermint extract works well and provides a refreshing minty flavor.

How do I achieve a fudgy brownie texture?

Using less flour and a combination of melted chocolate ensures a fudgy consistency.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the brownies?

Refrigeration helps set the layers, making them easier to slice and enhancing the flavors.

Can I add nuts to the brownie batter?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch.

How do I prevent the ganache from cracking when slicing?

Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry before slicing.

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes, they can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What’s the best way to melt chocolate for the ganache?

Heating heavy cream and pouring it over chopped chocolate ensures a smooth ganache without burning the chocolate.

How can I make the mint flavor more subtle?

Reduce the amount of peppermint extract in the frosting to achieve a milder flavor.

Can I use a boxed brownie mix?

Yes, for convenience, a boxed mix can be used as the base; just prepare as directed and add the mint frosting and ganache layers.

Conclusion

These Classic Mint Chocolate Brownies are a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with refreshing mint. Perfect for gatherings or a special indulgence, they are sure to satisfy any sweet craving.

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Classic Mint Chocolate Brownies


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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 6 hours (including cooling and chilling)
  • Yield: 24-30 brownies
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Classic Mint Chocolate Brownies are the perfect combination of rich chocolate and refreshing mint, making them a must-try dessert for any occasion. With a fudgy brownie base, sweet mint frosting, and smooth chocolate ganache topping, this treat is sure to please every sweet tooth. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just because!


Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For Mint Frosting:

  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1 tsp peppermint extract

For Chocolate Ganache:

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

Instructions

  • Prepare the Brownie Layer:

    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan (9×9) with parchment paper.
    • Melt the butter and semi-sweet chocolate together in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth and let cool slightly.
    • Whisk in granulated sugar and brown sugar until combined.
    • Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
    • Sift in cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Stir until just combined.
    • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 35 minutes. Let the brownies cool completely.
  • Mint Frosting:

    • Beat softened butter with a hand mixer until creamy.
    • Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract. Beat until smooth.
    • Spread the mint frosting evenly over the cooled brownie layer. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
  • Chocolate Ganache:

    • Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until simmering. Pour over the chopped chocolate in a separate bowl. Let it sit for 3 minutes and then stir until smooth.
    • Pour the ganache over the mint frosting layer. Refrigerate for another 2 hours to firm up.
  • Serve:

    • Once set, cut the brownies into squares and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a more minty flavor, add a drop of green food coloring to the mint frosting.
  • For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can be added to the brownie batter for extra crunch.
  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert, Brownies
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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