Mint Brownies Recipe

Introduction

These Mint Brownies are a simple & delicious dessert that combines rich chocolate with refreshing mint flavor. Perfect for holidays or any gathering, they’re easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. If you enjoy festive treats, try the Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe or Halloween Fudge Recipe for more seasonal inspiration.

Ingredients

These decadent Mint Brownies feature a rich, fudgy chocolate base layered with a cool, creamy peppermint filling and a glossy chocolate topping for the ultimate dessert experience.

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

Context: These Mint Brownies are ready in about 40 minutes total, which is roughly 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Brownie Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Sift in cocoa powder, flour, and salt, then fold gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies fudgy rather than cakey.

Step 2 — Bake the Brownie Base

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before adding the mint layer. This prevents the mint frosting from melting.

Step 3 — Make the Mint Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mint extract, and a few drops of green food coloring (optional).

Mix until light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk to reach a spreadable consistency.

Step 4 — Spread the Mint Layer

Once the brownies are fully cooled, evenly spread the mint frosting over the top using an offset spatula. Aim for a smooth, thin layer.

Chill the frosted brownies in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to set the mint layer before adding the chocolate topping.

Step 5 — Prepare the Chocolate Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt chocolate chips with a small amount of butter or coconut oil, stirring until smooth.

Let the melted chocolate cool slightly so it doesn’t melt the mint layer when poured. It should be warm but not hot to the touch.

Step 6 — Add the Final Chocolate Layer

Pour the melted chocolate over the chilled mint layer, tilting the pan to spread it evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top if needed.

Return the pan to the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate topping is firm and set.

Step 7 — Slice and Serve

Remove the chilled Mint Brownies from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place on a cutting board and slice into squares with a sharp knife.

For clean cuts, wipe the knife blade between slices. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.

Nutritional Information

Calories	280
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	14g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	180mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Protein Powder — Replace ¼ cup flour with vanilla or chocolate protein powder for a protein boost without overpowering the mint flavor.
• Almond Flour — Substitute all-purpose flour 1:1 with almond flour for a gluten-free, lower-carb brownie with a nutty taste.
• Coconut Oil — Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version that adds a subtle tropical note.
• Greek Yogurt — Swap half the oil or butter with plain Greek yogurt to reduce fat while keeping the brownies moist and rich.
• Applesauce — Replace oil with unsweetened applesauce to cut fat and calories, adding natural sweetness and moisture.
• Avocado — Use mashed avocado in place of butter for a creamy, dairy-free alternative with healthy fats and a fudgy texture.
• Stevia or Monk Fruit — Substitute granulated sugar with a sugar-free sweetener to lower carbs and glycemic impact, keeping the minty freshness.
• Low-Sodium Baking Powder — Opt for low-sodium baking powder to reduce sodium content without affecting the rise of your Mint Brownies.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combination.
• Serve alongside a cup of hot coffee or cold milk to balance the mint flavor.
• Cut into small squares for a festive holiday party or potluck treat.
• Top with a drizzle of chocolate ganache for an extra decadent touch.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an elegant presentation.
• Pack in lunchboxes as a special homemade snack.

These Mint Brownies are perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, bake sales, or as a refreshing after-dinner dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using fresh mint leaves instead of extract. Fix: Use peppermint extract for a potent, consistent flavor that won’t make the brownies watery.
• Mistake: Adding the mint layer to hot brownies. Fix: Let the brownie base cool completely so the mint frosting sets properly and doesn’t melt.
• Mistake: Overmixing the brownie batter after adding flour. Fix: Mix just until combined to avoid developing gluten, which makes the texture tough and cakey.
• Mistake: Skipping the chocolate ganache topping. Fix: A thin ganache layer seals in the mint flavor and provides the classic, glossy finish.
• Mistake: Using butter that is too warm for the frosting. Fix: Use room-temperature butter to create a light, fluffy mint layer that spreads easily.
• Mistake: Not chilling the brownies before slicing. Fix: Refrigerate until firm for clean, sharp cuts and distinct, beautiful layers.
• Mistake: Baking in a glass pan at the metal pan temperature. Fix: Reduce oven temperature by 25°F if using glass to prevent over-baked edges.
• Mistake: Using a weak, imitation mint extract. Fix: Invest in a high-quality pure peppermint extract for the most authentic and refreshing mint flavor.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store Mint Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Wrap Mint Brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag; freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm Mint Brownies in a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F.

Always let frozen Mint Brownies thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best texture and food safety.

Conclusion

These rich, fudgy Mint Brownies are the perfect treat for any chocolate lover. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like our Magic Brownie Cookies Recipe or our Chocolate + Mint = The Perfect Quick And Easy Treat. Give them a try and let us know what you think in the comments!

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FAQs

Can I make these Mint Brownies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these Mint Brownies a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for best texture.

What type of mint flavoring works best for these brownies?

Peppermint extract delivers the strongest, cleanest mint flavor for these Mint Brownies. Avoid using mint syrup, as it can make the batter too wet.

How do I get a perfectly smooth mint layer on top?

Ensure your brownie base is completely cool before spreading the mint layer. Let the mint layer set in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before adding the final chocolate topping for these Mint Brownies.