If you’re a fan of the magical combination of rich chocolate and cool mint, then these Mint Brownies are about to become your go-to dessert. Imagine fudgy homemade brownies topped with a creamy peppermint layer and a luscious chocolate glaze—every bite is a refreshing, chocolatey dream! Whether you need a show-stopping traybake for a party or just want an irresistible afternoon treat, this recipe delivers bold flavor and beautiful, bakery-worthy layers right from your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of these Mint Brownies lies in using straightforward ingredients, each one adding something special to the final treat. From the deep cocoa base to the vibrant minty layer and glossy chocolate top, every element works together for ultimate flavor and texture.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and keeps both the brownie layer and toppings silky-smooth.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create that perfect brownie chewiness.
- Large eggs: Provide structure and keep the brownies moist.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate and mint flavors with warm undertones.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers deep, robust chocolate flavor in every bite.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation that brings all the layers together, keeping things tender but sturdy.
- Baking powder: Gives just a bit of lift for a perfectly balanced texture.
- Salt: A pinch sharpens all the other flavors beautifully.
- Powdered sugar (for mint layer): Makes the layer ultra-smooth and sweet.
- Softened unsalted butter (for mint layer): Creams together with sugar for a melt-in-your-mouth minty middle.
- Milk (for mint layer): Loosens the mint frosting for easy spreading.
- Peppermint extract (for mint layer): The all-star that gives the iconic, cool minty kick.
- Green food coloring (optional, for mint layer): Just a few drops bring a playful, eye-catching color.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (for glaze): Create a glossy, bittersweet finish to balance the mint sweetness.
- Unsalted butter (for glaze): Keeps the glaze rich and smooth for easy slicing.
How to Make Mint Brownies
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. This simple prep step ensures you’ll have flawless, easy-to-lift-out Mint Brownies with clean edges every time.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Base
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter, stirring occasionally for even melting. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until fully combined—this creates a glossy, cohesive base. Next, add in the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth, glossy, and lump-free.
Step 3: Bake the Brownies
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. Be careful not to overbake—slightly underdone means fudgy, not dry! Cool the brownie base completely in the pan before adding the next layers.
Step 4: Make the Mint Layer
With the brownies cool, it’s time for the minty middle. In a mixing bowl, beat together the powdered sugar, softened unsalted butter, milk, peppermint extract, and green food coloring (if using) until the mixture is creamy and easily spreadable. The green hue isn’t required, but it gives your Mint Brownies that bakery appeal! Spread the mint layer evenly over the cooled brownies, making sure to reach every corner. Pop the pan in the refrigerator for 30 minutes so the mint layer can set and firm up.
Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Glaze
For a glossy chocolate finish, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butter in a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan. Gently melt until smooth, stirring regularly to avoid scorching. Once melted, pour and spread the glaze over the chilled mint layer. Return the pan to the fridge and let everything set up until firm—this helps your layers slice beautifully and keeps each square pristine.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
When fully chilled and set (usually about another half hour), use the parchment overhang to lift the slab out of the pan. For crisp, clean squares, wipe your knife with a warm, damp cloth between cuts. Enjoy the delightful reveal of all three gorgeous layers—these Mint Brownies are a total showstopper!
How to Serve Mint Brownies
Garnishes
A sprinkle of mini chocolate chips or a few fresh mint leaves on each brownie square makes your Mint Brownies look irresistible. You can even drizzle a little melted white chocolate in zigzags for bakery-style flair, or dust gently with powdered sugar for an extra-pretty finish.
Side Dishes
These brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream, the creaminess balancing that minty zing. A big mug of coffee or hot chocolate brings out the richness, while a tall glass of cold milk always feels classic.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, arrange Mint Brownies in cupcake liners and pile them on a tiered dessert tray. For holidays, cut them into tiny bites or use a cookie cutter for festive shapes. Or transform them into a decadent parfait by layering crumbled brownies with whipped cream and more chocolate shavings in small glasses!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Mint Brownies fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The layers stay firm and flavors meld perfectly after chilling, making these brownies even better the next day!
Freezing
They freeze surprisingly well! Arrange the cut brownies in a single layer, separated by parchment paper, in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to two months, then let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
While Mint Brownies are best enjoyed chilled or at room temp, you can give them a quick 5-10 second zap in the microwave if you prefer a softer, gooier bite. Just note, the glaze might get a bit melty—still absolutely delicious!
FAQs
Can I use a different pan size for this recipe?
Yes, you can bake Mint Brownies in a 9×9-inch pan for thinner layers or even in a muffin tin for individual brownie cups. Just reduce baking time slightly for thinner brownies and watch for doneness.
What if I don’t have peppermint extract?
You can substitute with spearmint extract or use a combination of mint-flavored syrup and vanilla to mimic the taste, though the classic cool punch comes from peppermint specifically.
Can I make Mint Brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend. Check that all your extracts and cocoa are certified gluten-free for a safe treat.
How do I avoid the chocolate glaze cracking?
For smooth, crack-free slices, make sure the glaze is set but not icy cold, and use a warm knife to cut through the layers. Wiping the blade clean after each slice also helps keep the brownies pretty.
Can Mint Brownies be made without food coloring?
Definitely! The green food coloring is just for looks and can be left out if you prefer a natural white mint layer.
Final Thoughts
These Mint Brownies bring together everything you love about chocolate and mint in one chewy, creamy, and utterly satisfying square. They’re guaranteed to brighten your dessert table and impress anyone lucky enough to try them. So preheat that oven and enjoy the homemade magic—your craving for something truly special is about to be fully satisfied!
Print
Mint Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these decadent Mint Brownies with a rich chocolate base, refreshing mint layer, and a glossy chocolate glaze. Perfect for mint chocolate lovers!
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 baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Mint Layer:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2–3 drops green food coloring (optional)
Chocolate Glaze:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Brownie Base: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch pan. Melt butter, mix in sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Stir in cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Spread batter in pan and bake for 20–25 minutes. Cool.
- Mint Layer: Beat powdered sugar, butter, milk, peppermint extract, and food coloring until smooth. Spread over brownie base. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Chocolate Glaze: Melt chocolate chips and butter until smooth. Spread over mint layer. Refrigerate until firm. Slice and serve.
Notes
- For a stronger mint flavor, add extra peppermint extract.
- Store brownies in the refrigerator for best texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
