If you’re a fan of the dream-team duo of chocolate and mint, you’re in for a treat with these Mint Chocolate Brownies. Imagine biting into a decadent, fudgy brownie, meeting a cool, creamy layer of mint, then finishing with a velvety chocolate topping — all in one blissful bite. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a potluck, or just to satisfy that late-night sweet tooth, Mint Chocolate Brownies never fail to get rave reviews. The pretty layered effect and punchy mint flavor make this recipe not only delicious but a showstopper for any dessert table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
All it takes is a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh touches to create truly unforgettable Mint Chocolate Brownies. Each ingredient has its own job here, whether that’s building the gooey brownie base, crafting the vibrant mint layer, or crowning everything with a silky chocolate finish.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Brings moisture and rich flavor to the brownies while helping create that perfect fudgy texture.
- Granulated sugar: Adds signature sweetness and ensures a tender crumb.
- Eggs: Bind the batter together and give the brownies structure and chew.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances chocolate flavors and provides depth to every bite.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives a deep, chocolatey flavor to the brownie layer.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation that holds everything together for the perfect bite.
- Salt: Brightens and balances the sweetness.
- Baking powder: Adds a subtle lift, preventing the brownies from being too dense.
- Semisweet chocolate chips: Melty pockets of chocolate throughout, plus a glossy topping.
- Peppermint extract: Sings the unmistakable mint flavor and brings serious freshness.
- Milk: Loosens the mint layer to the ideal creamy consistency.
- Green food coloring (optional): Gives your mint layer a playful, unmistakable minty hue.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the creamy mint center.
- Butter (for mint layer): Makes the mint frosting wonderfully smooth and spreadable.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (for topping): Melted with butter for the final glossy ganache layer.
- Butter (for topping): Ensures a silky, easy-to-slice chocolate top that won’t crack.
How to Make Mint Chocolate Brownies
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing an 8×8-inch baking pan. In a roomy mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture becomes silky. Gently mix in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined, taking care not to overmix. Fold in the chocolate chips for those dreamy melty pockets. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top, and slide it into the oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, just until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs — that’s the secret to perfect Mint Chocolate Brownies.
Step 2: Cool Completely
Patience pays off! Let the brownie layer cool completely in the pan. This helps ensure that your mint layer stays vibrantly green and doesn’t melt into the warm chocolate. If you’re feeling impatient, pop the pan into the fridge to speed things up.
Step 3: Mix the Mint Layer
While the brownies cool, it’s time to whip up that eye-catching mint layer! Beat 1/4 cup of butter until creamy and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then stir in the milk and peppermint extract. If you love that classic look, add a few drops of green food coloring until you get your preferred minty shade. Spread the frosting over the cooled brownie layer, making sure to cover every edge. Chill in the fridge until the mint layer is firm to the touch — this step helps get you those clean, bakery-style layers.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Topping
For the grand finale, gently melt 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons butter, either in a double boiler or in slow bursts in the microwave. Stir until glossy and smooth. Pour the chocolate topping over the chilled mint layer, tilting the pan to spread it evenly, or use an offset spatula for a flawless finish. Return the pan to the refrigerator until the chocolate sets completely.
Step 5: Slice and Enjoy
Once the topping is firm, carefully lift the brownies from the pan and slice them into neat squares using a sharp knife. For clean edges, wipe the blade between cuts. Now, step back and admire those beautiful Mint Chocolate Brownies layers — then treat yourself to a bite!
How to Serve Mint Chocolate Brownies
Garnishes
Dress up your Mint Chocolate Brownies with a shower of chocolate shavings, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a sprig of fresh mint. These simple touches look stunning and make every bite feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Serve your brownies with a scoop of vanilla or mint chocolate chip ice cream for the ultimate dessert duo. If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of lightly whipped cream alongside fresh berries offers a fruity, creamy counterpoint to the rich chocolate and mint.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your Mint Chocolate Brownies into triangles or bars for a fun spin, or stack them in layers on a dessert platter for a striking centerpiece. For a holiday party, wrap individual squares in parchment and tie with a ribbon for the sweetest take-home treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The mint layer holds up perfectly and the flavors actually intensify after a day or two, making them taste even more delicious!
Freezing
These Mint Chocolate Brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and enjoy as if freshly made.
Reheating
If you prefer your brownies a little warm, zap them in the microwave for just 5–10 seconds. Take care not to overheat, so the mint layer stays creamy and the chocolate topping maintains its shine.
FAQs
Can I use mint extract instead of peppermint extract?
Yes, you can substitute mint extract, but be aware it often contains both spearmint and peppermint oils, which will give you a more herbal, less cool flavor. For that classic Mint Chocolate Brownies taste, peppermint extract is best.
Can I double this recipe for a bigger crowd?
Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Keep an eye on bake time — it may need a few more minutes, but the results are just as stunning and delicious.
How do I get clean layers when cutting Mint Chocolate Brownies?
Chill the brownies thoroughly between each layer and before slicing. For the cleanest cuts, use a sharp, warm knife and wipe the blade between each cut. This keeps your brownies pretty enough for a bakery window.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
You sure can! Substitute a 1-to-1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. Everything else stays the same, so your gluten-free friends can also enjoy Mint Chocolate Brownies.
What’s the best way to add more mint flavor?
For an extra punch of mint, add a touch more peppermint extract to the mint layer or scatter finely chopped mint chocolate andes candies over the top before the final chocolate layer sets.
Final Thoughts
If you love the cool, refreshing zing of mint paired with chocolate’s luscious richness, these Mint Chocolate Brownies absolutely deserve a spot in your dessert rotation. I hope you’ll give them a try and share them with someone you love — they’re guaranteed to bring smiles (and requests for the recipe)!
Print
Mint Chocolate Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of chocolate and mint with these rich and fudgy Mint Chocolate Brownies. A perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
Brownie Base:
- 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 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Mint Layer:
- 1/4 cup butter (for mint layer)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Green food coloring (optional)
Chocolate Topping:
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- Mix the Brownie Base: In a large bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until smooth. Fold in chocolate chips.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Let cool completely.
- Prepare Mint Layer: Beat 1/4 cup butter until creamy, then add powdered sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and green food coloring. Spread evenly over cooled brownies and chill until firm.
- Add Chocolate Topping: Melt 1/2 cup chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons butter and pour over the mint layer. Chill again until set.
- Serve: Cut into squares to serve.
Notes
- For a more intense mint flavor, increase the peppermint extract slightly.
- Use white chocolate chips in the base for a sweeter variation.
- Chill thoroughly between layers to ensure clean slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
