Name: Chocolate Mint Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 3/4 teaspoon peppermint extract; 2 to 3 drops green food coloring (optional); 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

Craving a dessert that’s cool, chocolatey, and completely irresistible? Chocolate Mint Brownies are the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves the rich depth of cocoa paired with the refreshing pop of mint. These layered bars feature a fudgy chocolate base, a creamy mint filling, and a glossy chocolate ganache top that cracks ever so slightly when you bite in. It’s everything you want in a brownie—but with a minty surprise.

Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a party platter, or a solo treat-yourself moment, this recipe delivers on both flavor and texture. Plus, it’s a fun one to make if you’re looking to elevate your usual brownie game. Let’s dive into the delicious layers.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you preheat the oven, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference. For these Chocolate Mint Brownies, a few essentials are key:

8×8-inch Baking Pan: Perfect for achieving the right brownie thickness and even baking.
Parchment Paper: Ensures a clean lift from the pan and prevents sticking.
Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: Vital for whipping the mint layer into a fluffy, creamy texture.
Heatproof Bowl + Saucepan: You’ll use these for melting chocolate gently using a double boiler method.
Offset Spatula: Ideal for spreading each layer evenly without disturbing the one beneath.
Cooling Rack: Allows the brownies to cool uniformly, helping the layers to set properly.

Using quality tools helps you avoid lumpy mint layers or overbaked brownie bases. Each layer deserves the spotlight, so precision is key to achieving that perfect bite of rich chocolate and smooth mint.

Ingredients for the Chocolate Mint Brownies

Each component of this dessert brings its own magic to the final result. Here’s what makes these brownies unforgettable:

For the Brownie Base:

Unsalted Butter – Delivers richness and moisture.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and adds structure.
Cocoa Powder – Intensifies the deep chocolate flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the chocolate and rounds out the taste.
Eggs – Bind everything together and create that chewy brownie texture.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides the necessary structure to hold the layers.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.

For the Mint Layer:

Butter – Forms the base of the mint cream.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and gives the mint layer its smooth consistency.
Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess and helps with spreading.
Peppermint Extract – The star of the show; gives that cool minty essence.
Green Food Coloring (optional) – Just a few drops for that classic minty hue.

For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:

Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Melt into a rich, velvety top layer.
Butter – Helps achieve a smooth and shiny ganache.

How To Make the Chocolate Mint Brownies

Step 1: Make the Brownie Layer

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan with parchment paper. In a saucepan, melt butter and mix in sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir in eggs and vanilla until glossy. Add flour and mix until just combined. Pour batter into the pan and bake for about 20-22 minutes. Let it cool completely.

Step 2: Whip Up the Mint Filling

While the brownie base is cooling, beat butter until fluffy. Add powdered sugar gradually, then mix in heavy cream, peppermint extract, and green food coloring. Whip until light and spreadable. Once the brownies are cool, evenly spread this mint layer on top. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Ganache

In a heatproof bowl over simmering water, melt chocolate chips with butter. Stir until smooth. Let cool slightly, then pour over the chilled mint layer. Use an offset spatula to spread evenly. Chill again until the ganache is firm.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Once fully set, lift the brownies out of the pan and slice into squares using a sharp knife. Wipe the blade between cuts for clean layers.

How to Serve and Store Chocolate Mint Brownies

These brownies are best served chilled, which keeps the mint layer firm and refreshing against the dense chocolate base. For clean, bakery-style slices, use a sharp knife warmed under hot water, then wiped dry before each cut. They’re a fantastic make-ahead dessert for parties, cookie exchanges, or anytime you want to wow guests with a minty surprise.

When it comes to storing, place brownies in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight before serving—they taste just as dreamy as fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use mint extract instead of peppermint extract?

Peppermint extract gives a brighter, cleaner flavor. Mint extract often includes spearmint, which can make the flavor taste more herbal. For that crisp mint-chocolate contrast, peppermint is ideal.

Can I make these without the food coloring?

Absolutely. The green tint is purely visual. The flavor stays just as minty without it.

What if I don’t have chocolate chips for the ganache?

You can substitute chopped semi-sweet chocolate bars. Just make sure it’s a good melting chocolate.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just use a 9×13-inch pan instead of an 8×8. You may need to adjust baking time slightly, adding 5-8 minutes to the brownie base.

Do these travel well?

They do—especially when chilled. Layer parchment between slices and keep them in a sturdy container to prevent squishing.

What’s the best way to get clean layers when cutting?

Refrigerate the brownies until firm and use a hot, clean knife. Wipe the blade between cuts to keep each slice neat.

Want More Chocolate Dessert Ideas?

If chocolate desserts are your love language, I’ve got a few more you should explore.

You might also like the Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars, a layered treat with just as much drama and indulgence. Or go for the Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes if you love gooey marshmallow surprises tucked inside rich chocolate cake.

For a simpler twist, try the Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies—they’re classic but never boring. If bars are your thing, the Elegant Lemon Marbled Cheesecake Bars offer a citrusy contrast worth checking out too.

You can also check out the Indulgent Chocolate Chess Pie if you want something with a Southern flair but equally decadent.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go bold with the peppermint? Did you tweak the layers? Leave a comment below or share your version with me.

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