Mint chocolate brownies are a delicious treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and the refreshing taste of mint. Here’s a recipe for mint chocolate brownies:
Ingredients:
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Mint Layer:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Green food coloring (optional, for color)
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the Brownie Batter:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the 1 cup of butter over low heat. Remove from heat once melted.
- Stir in the granulated sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until the batter is smooth.
3. Bake the Brownies:
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
4. Make the Mint Layer:
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the 1/4 cup of softened butter, powdered sugar, milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract until smooth and creamy.
- If you want a green color, add a few drops of green food coloring and mix until evenly distributed.
- Spread the mint mixture evenly over the cooled brownies. You can use a spatula to help smooth it out.
5. Prepare the Chocolate Topping:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer (about 1 minute in the microwave).
- Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Let it sit for a minute, then stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
6. Add the Chocolate Topping:
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the mint layer, spreading it evenly.
- Allow the brownies to cool until the chocolate topping sets, which may take a couple of hours at room temperature, or you can speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
7. Cut and Serve:
- Once the brownies are fully set, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles.
- Serve and enjoy your delicious mint chocolate brownies!
These brownies are a delightful combination of rich chocolate and cool mint, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
