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
Scale
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.
