If you have a soft spot for the irresistible combo of chocolate and mint, you are going to love this Mint Brownies Recipe. Imagine biting into rich, fudgy brownies layered with a creamy, refreshing mint filling and topped with a glossy chocolate ganache that melts in your mouth. This dessert strikes the perfect balance between deep cocoa flavor and cool peppermint, making it an absolute showstopper for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or to impress guests during the holidays, these mint brownies bring warmth, nostalgia, and pure joy in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Mint Brownies Recipe uses straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together in layers to deliver a luxurious texture and vibrant flavor. Each element plays a crucial role in making the brownies fudgy, minty, and decadently smooth.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Melts down to create a rich, moist brownie base that’s soft and tender.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and balances the cocoa’s slight bitterness while promoting that classic brownie chewiness.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and give the brownies their luscious, fudgy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the chocolate flavor.
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: The heart of the chocolate flavor, giving the brownies their deep, rich color and taste.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Binds everything together while keeping the brownies soft and tender.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, especially the chocolate.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder: Gives just a touch of lift so the brownies aren’t overly dense.
- Mint layer ingredients: 1/4 cup softened unsalted butter, 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk, 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract, and green food coloring (optional) all combine to create a creamy, minty middle that’s cool and dreamy.
- Chocolate ganache topping: 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melt into a glossy, luscious finish that seals the brownies with indulgence.
How to Make Mint Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat, then remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Sifting in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder keeps the batter lump-free. Mix everything gently but thoroughly, then spread the rich batter evenly in the pan. Bake for about 20 to 22 minutes—you want a toothpick inserted to come out with just moist crumbs. This fudgy brownie layer is your decadent foundation.
Step 2: Make the Mint Layer
Once the brownies have completely cooled, it’s time to whip up the minty magic. Beat together softened butter, powdered sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and a few drops of green food coloring if you want that classic mint hue. Keep beating until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Spread this mint layer evenly over the brownies. Then pop the pan into the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes so that layer firms up, creating a perfect contrast of textures.
Step 3: Add the Chocolate Ganache
For the final touch, gently melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts, stirring between each until silky smooth. Pour this ganache over the chilled mint layer and spread it out evenly. Back into the fridge it goes for at least 30 minutes so the ganache sets into a shiny, firm topping. When ready, slice into squares for the ultimate chocolate mint indulgence.
How to Serve Mint Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
While these brownies are stunning on their own, adding a few thoughtful garnishes can elevate their presentation and flavor even more. Consider sprinkling crushed peppermint candies or chocolate shavings on top for a festive crunch. Fresh mint leaves can bring a delightful pop of color and freshness when serving. For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle some white chocolate in thin lines or dust a little cocoa powder for contrast.
Side Dishes
Mint brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries add vibrant color and a bit of tartness that complements the cool mint flavor. For adults, a small glass of minty hot chocolate or a peppermint-spiked coffee can round out this decadent dessert experience perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow guests, try stacking squares with layers of fresh whipped cream and berries in clear glasses to create mint brownie parfaits. You could also cut the brownies into bite-sized cubes and serve them with skewers alongside marshmallows and pretzels for a fun dessert platter. Wrapping individual brownies in clear wrap with a pretty ribbon turns them into charming edible gifts anyone would adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These Mint Brownies Recipe leftovers keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to five days. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their moisture and prevent them from picking up fridge odors. Chilling helps preserve the integrity of the mint layer and ganache topping so every bite stays as dreamy as the first.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead or save some for later, these brownies freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for the best results.
Reheating
Because these are best enjoyed chilled, reheating isn’t usually necessary. However, if you prefer them a bit softer, allow the brownies to come to room temperature before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can melt the ganache and mint layer unevenly. A gentle room-temperature rest will bring out that perfect balance between fudgy chocolate and refreshing mint.
FAQs
Can I use spearmint extract instead of peppermint for the mint layer?
Peppermint extract is the traditional choice for this Mint Brownies Recipe because it delivers a sharper, more classic mint flavor that complements chocolate perfectly. Spearmint is milder and sweeter, which might make the mint layer less vibrant and more subtle.
How do I get the mint layer really smooth and fluffy?
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted before beating it with powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract. Using an electric mixer helps achieve that light, fluffy texture. If the mixture seems too thick, add a tiny splash more milk until it spreads easily without losing body.
Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for the ganache?
Absolutely! Using dark chocolate chips will give a richer, slightly less sweet ganache that contrasts beautifully against the sweet mint layer. Just be sure to adjust to your taste preferences because the final brownies might have a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor.
What is the best way to cut the brownies cleanly?
For clean slices, make sure your brownies are fully chilled and the ganache topping is firm. Use a sharp knife warmed by running under hot water and then wiped dry — this helps cut smoothly through the layers without cracking or sticking.
Can this Mint Brownies Recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup for cup. Just ensure your other ingredients like baking powder are gluten-free certified to keep everything safe and delicious.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Mint Brownies Recipe that feels both comforting and festive all at once. Its luscious layers of chocolate and mint are easy to make but impressive enough to steal the spotlight at any gathering. Give it a try — I promise you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again for a sweet minty escape that never disappoints.
Print
Mint Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these rich and fudgy Mint Brownies layered with a creamy mint frosting and topped with a smooth chocolate ganache. Perfectly combining chocolate and refreshing peppermint, these brownies make an ideal dessert for holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 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
Mint Layer
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- A few drops of green food coloring (optional)
Chocolate Ganache Topping
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Sift in 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, then fold gently until fully combined without overmixing. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the Brownies: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20–22 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan to set the texture before adding layers.
- Make the Mint Layer: In a medium bowl, beat together 1/4 cup softened unsalted butter, 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk, 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract, and a few drops of green food coloring if desired. Beat until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy. Once the brownie base is fully cooled, spread this mint frosting evenly over the top. Place the pan in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to firm up the mint layer.
- Prepare the Chocolate Ganache: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Pour the ganache over the chilled mint layer and spread evenly for a glossy finish.
- Chill and Serve: Return the brownies to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the ganache to set properly. Once firm, slice into 16 brownies using a sharp knife. Store leftovers in the fridge for optimal freshness or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
- Use peppermint extract for a classic chocolate mint flavor, not spearmint extract.
- For clean slices, ensure the brownies are fully chilled before cutting.
- Store brownies in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for extended storage.
