If you have a soft spot for the cool, refreshing zing of mint paired with rich, fudgy chocolate, this Mint Brownies Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine biting into a dense, moist brownie with a luscious mint frosting layer and a glossy chocolate ganache topping that melts in your mouth. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures that feels both indulgent and invigorating. Whether you’re baking for a party, a cozy night in, or just because, these mint brownies will impress everyone while being surprisingly easy to whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Mint Brownies Recipe is in how simple and accessible the ingredients are, yet each one plays an essential role in creating a decadent treat with gorgeous texture and flavor contrast.
- Brownie mix (1 18-oz box): The base of your brownies, ensuring a fudgy, perfectly baked texture without extra fuss.
- Butter (½ cup softened): Adds richness and tenderness to both the brownie and mint frosting layers.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups): Crucial for creating that silky-smooth, sweet mint frosting.
- Heavy cream or whole milk (2 tablespoons): Helps lighten the frosting’s texture, making it fluffy and spreadable.
- Peppermint extract (¾ teaspoon): The heart of this Mint Brownies Recipe, providing an unmistakable cool and refreshing mint flavor that’s not overpowering.
- Green food coloring (1 drop, optional): Just a touch to give your frosting a cheerful minty shade that looks as fresh as it tastes.
- Butter (6 tablespoons): For the rich, velvety chocolate ganache layer that tops off these brownies with shine and depth.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Melted into the ganache, these provide a bittersweet counterpoint that balances the sugary frosting.
How to Make Mint Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Brownies
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and preparing an 8×8 or 9×9-inch pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it well. Follow the instructions on the brownie mix package to prepare your batter, then pour it into the pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before moving on. This cooling step is key because you want a firm base that will support the luscious frosting and ganache without melting or sliding off.
Step 2: Create the Mint Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and peppermint extract, then mix everything together until the frosting is light and fluffy. If you want your brownies to have that signature mint-green hue, add a drop of green food coloring and gently fold it in. Spread this dreamy frosting evenly over your cooled brownies and pop the pan in the fridge for 15–20 minutes. Chilling helps the frosting set, so it stays firm for the next step.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
For the crowning glory of this Mint Brownies Recipe, melt the 6 tablespoons of butter together with the semi-sweet chocolate chips over low heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is silky smooth and glossy. Allow it to cool slightly for about 5 minutes—this prevents it from melting the frosting beneath—and then spread it evenly over the chilled mint frosting. Place the pan back into the refrigerator for another 30–60 minutes so the ganache firms up into a shiny, irresistible top layer.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Before cutting, let your brownies sit out for 10 to 15 minutes to gently come to room temperature. This step minimizes cracking when slicing and keeps the ganache intact. For clean, beautiful cuts, use a warm knife—simply run it under hot water and dry it off between each slice. Carefully remove the brownies from the pan and get ready to enjoy the divine combination of mint and chocolate in every bite!
How to Serve Mint Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little flair to your mint brownies can elevate the experience. Consider sprinkling crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings on top of the ganache for a festive touch and added texture. Fresh mint leaves can also provide a lovely visual contrast and hint at the flavors inside. Even a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty, delicate finish.
Side Dishes
Since these brownies are rich and intensely flavored, pairing them with simple side dishes complements them beautifully. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream mellows the sweetness and adds creaminess. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, bring a bright, tart counterbalance that brightens the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or special occasion, consider serving these Mint Brownies Recipe slices on a wooden board surrounded by sprigs of fresh mint and small bowls of chocolate chips or crushed peppermint candies. You can also layer them in a decorative glass trifle dish with whipped cream between layers for an unexpected, crowd-pleasing dessert. Mini brownie bites on sticks dipped halfway in chocolate and sprinkled with crushed mint candies transform these brownies into fun, handheld treats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Mint brownies keep wonderfully well when stored properly. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container, then keep them refrigerated for up to 4 days. This will maintain their moist texture and keep the ganache nice and firm.
Freezing
If you want to make them ahead for future enjoyment, freeze your cooled, sliced brownies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them in the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for about an hour.
Reheating
Mint brownies are best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled, so reheating is not typically necessary. However, if you prefer them a bit warmer, microwave individual servings for 10–15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as the chocolate ganache may soften too much and become gooey.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownies instead of a brownie mix?
Absolutely! This Mint Brownies Recipe works beautifully with your own favorite homemade brownie recipe. Just make sure the brownies are fully cooled before frosting and ganaching.
What’s the difference between peppermint extract and mint extract?
Peppermint extract has a stronger, sharper, and more refreshing flavor than mint extract, which can be milder and sweeter. Peppermint is preferred here to really highlight that iconic coolness in the frosting.
Is green food coloring necessary?
No, it’s completely optional. The brownies will taste fantastic without it, but the green coloring adds a fun, festive touch that makes the mint frosting look classic and inviting.
Can I make these brownies dairy-free?
To make the Mint Brownies Recipe dairy-free, substitute the butter with plant-based margarine and use a dairy-free milk alternative in the frosting. Choose dairy-free chocolate chips for the ganache. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious!
How long do these brownies stay fresh?
When stored well in the fridge, mint brownies will stay fresh for about 4 days. Beyond that, they can dry out or the ganache may begin to soften too much, so enjoy them sooner for the best experience.
Final Thoughts
This Mint Brownies Recipe is truly one of those desserts that brings a smile to your face with every bite. It’s straightforward enough for a home baker to feel confident while delivering layers of flavor and texture that feel special. Whether it’s a holiday treat or an everyday indulgence, I can’t recommend these brownies enough—give them a try and watch them disappear fast!
Print
Mint Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 16 small brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Mint Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with a refreshing peppermint frosting and a smooth chocolate ganache topping. Perfectly balanced with the cool taste of mint and the deep flavor of chocolate, these brownies are a delightful dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Brownies
- 1 (18-oz) box brownie mix with ingredients required on package
- Butter (for mixing as per package instructions, softened)
Mint Frosting
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
- ¾ teaspoon peppermint extract (not mint extract)
- 1 drop green food coloring (optional for a brighter hue)
Chocolate Ganache
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Bake the brownies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it well. Prepare the brownie batter according to the box or your homemade recipe instructions, then pour it into the pan. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- Make mint frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat ½ cup softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar, then blend in 2 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk. Stir in ¾ teaspoon peppermint extract and 1 drop of green food coloring if using, then mix until the frosting is fluffy and smooth. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled brownies in the pan. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes to let the frosting set firmly.
- Make chocolate ganache: In a small saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons butter over low heat. Add 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Remove from heat and let the ganache cool slightly, about 5 minutes. Spread this ganache evenly over the chilled mint-frosted brownies. Refrigerate the brownies for 30 to 60 minutes until the ganache is firm to the touch.
- Slice & serve: Before slicing, take the brownies out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes to prevent cracking. Carefully remove the brownies from the pan. For clean slices, use a warm knife and wipe it clean between each cut. Serve and enjoy these rich, minty chocolate brownies!
Notes
- Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before spreading the frosting to prevent it from melting.
- The peppermint extract is essential for true mint flavor; do not substitute with mint extract as it has different flavor notes.
- Green food coloring is optional and only for a vibrant mint look.
- Chilling between layers helps achieve neat, distinct layers of frosting and ganache.
- Using a warm knife for slicing ensures clean edges and prevents cracking.
