These Chocolate Mint Brownies are a decadent treat with a rich, fudgy chocolate base, topped with a creamy mint layer and finished off with a layer of smooth chocolate ganache. They truly melt in your mouth with every bite!
Chocolate Mint Brownies – Melt-in-Your-Mouth Recipe
Ingredients:
For the 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 baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Mint Layer:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Green food coloring (optional, for a festive look)
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate (or milk chocolate, if you prefer)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brownie Base:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and whisk until combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (do not overbake).
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before adding the mint layer.
2. Prepare the Mint Layer:
- In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the milk, peppermint extract, and a few drops of green food coloring (if using), and mix until well combined.
- Spread the mint mixture evenly over the cooled brownies. Refrigerate the brownies for about 30 minutes to allow the mint layer to firm up.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
- In a heatproof bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate and heavy cream.
- Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
- Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring it over the mint layer.
4. Assemble the Brownies:
- Once the ganache is slightly cooled, pour it over the mint layer, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Return the brownies to the refrigerator to set for about 30 minutes, or until the ganache is firm.
5. Serve:
- Once the brownies are fully set, remove from the refrigerator and slice into squares.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips:
- Mint Variations: If you want a stronger mint flavor, you can increase the amount of peppermint extract in the mint layer.
- Extra Texture: For added crunch, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or chocolate chips on top of the ganache before it sets.
- Storage: These brownies keep well in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
These Chocolate Mint Brownies are the perfect combination of rich chocolate, refreshing mint, and smooth ganache, and they will melt in your mouth with every bite!
