Name: Classic Mint Chocolate Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 36 min
Total time: PT-491716H55M2S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (16 Tbsp; 226g) unsalted butter; 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, coarsely chopped; 1 and 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar; 4 large eggs, at room temperature; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup + 3 Tablespoons (86g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 1/4 cup (21g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 2 cups (240g) confectioners’ sugar; 2 Tablespoons (30ml) milk; 1 and 1/4 teaspoons peppermint extract*; Optional: 1 drop liquid or gel green food coloring; 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter; 1 heaping cup (around 200g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 73 reviews

If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolatey goodness with a refreshing burst of mint, you’ve just found your new favorite. This Classic Mint Chocolate Brownies Recipe is a heavenly treat that combines fudgy, dense brownies with a silky mint frosting and a glossy chocolate topping. Every bite is pure bliss, offering a nostalgic twist on a classic dessert. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just craving something indulgent to brighten your day, these brownies bring both flavor and fun to the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass bowl filled with smooth, rich, dark brown chocolate sauce. A silver spoon is dipped in the sauce, resting inside the bowl with some sauce coating the spoon. The chocolate looks thick and creamy, with a shiny texture and small specks of darker bits in it. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, with soft light highlighting the glossy finish of the chocolate sauce. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

It’s amazing how simply put together these brownies are, yet every ingredient plays an essential role in delivering that perfect texture and vibrant flavor. From the butter’s richness and the chocolate’s depth to the peppermint’s fresh kick, each element matters.

Unsalted butter (1 cup + 1/2 cup softened + 1/2 cup for chocolate layer): Provides the creamy base and luscious mouthfeel, ensuring moist, tender brownies and a glossy finish.
Semi-sweet chocolate (8 ounces chopped + 1 heaping cup chips): Adds rich chocolate flavor that melts smoothly into both the brownie and topping layers.
Granulated sugar (1½ cups): Brings sweetness and helps create a slightly crisp top on the brownies.
Light brown sugar (½ cup packed): Adds moisture and a subtle caramel note to the chocolate brownies.
Large eggs (4): Bind ingredients together and give the brownies structure.
Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Enhances all the other flavors with its warm, aromatic touch.
Salt (½ tsp): Balances sweetness and intensifies the chocolate’s richness.
All-purpose flour (½ cup + 3 Tbsp): Gives the brownies their body without making them cakey.
Natural unsweetened cocoa powder (¼ cup): Deepens the chocolate flavor and gives the brownies that classic dark color.
Confectioners’ sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and smooths the mint frosting for a creamy finish.
Milk (2 Tbsp): Lightens the mint frosting to the perfect spreadable consistency.
Peppermint extract (1¼ tsp): Infuses the frosting with that unmistakable cool mint flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Optional green food coloring (1 drop): Just a hint for that festive minty green frosting look.

How to Make Classic Mint Chocolate Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

Begin by gently melting the unsalted butter and chopped semi-sweet chocolate together, either on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Stir constantly to ensure a silky smooth texture, then let it cool slightly. This warm chocolate base is where the magic starts — it’s rich, glossy, and sets the stage for your fudgy brownies.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Preheat Oven

Line a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang for easy removal later. Set the oven rack to the lower third and preheat to 350°F (177°C). These little steps help your brownies bake evenly and come out clean and perfect every time.

Step 3: Mix the Brownie Batter

Whisk together the granulated and brown sugars into your cooled chocolate-butter mixture, then add the eggs one at a time. Make sure to whisk well after each addition to keep the batter smooth and well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract, then gently fold in the salt, flour, and cocoa powder. This careful folding keeps your brownies tender and packed with rich flavor.

Step 4: Bake Your Brownies

Pour the rich batter into your prepared pan and bake for 35 to 36 minutes, or until you see the edges starting to pull away and a toothpick comes out with only a few moist crumbs. Remember, every oven is different, so keep an eye on them after 30 minutes to avoid overbaking. Once baked, let them cool completely — this is essential before frosting to prevent melting.

Step 5: Make the Mint Frosting Layer

Using a mixer, beat the softened butter until creamy before slowly adding confectioners’ sugar and milk. Mix carefully, starting slow and then turning up the speed, until your frosting is delightfully fluffy. Stir in the peppermint extract and optional green food coloring if you want that classic mint look. Spread this refreshing layer evenly over the cooled brownies, then chill in the fridge for one to four hours so the frosting sets perfectly.

Step 6: Prepare the Chocolate Topping

Just like the brownies, melt together butter and chocolate chips until smooth, then pour over the chilled mint frosting. Spread gently and return the tray to the refrigerator to chill for another hour or more. This final chocolate shell adds a silky finish that hardens beautifully, sealing in that delightful minty surprise.

Step 7: Cut and Enjoy!

When fully chilled, use a sharp knife to cut briskly into squares, wiping the blade clean between cuts for the neatest pieces. These brownies can be enjoyed at room temperature for a few hours but keep leftovers refrigerated to maintain their freshness.

How to Serve Classic Mint Chocolate Brownies Recipe

The image shows a close-up of square dessert bars with three clear layers. The bottom layer is dark brown with a rough, crumbly texture, resembling a chocolate brownie base. The middle layer is a thick, creamy light green layer, smooth in texture and evenly spread. The top layer is a glossy, dark chocolate coating with a shiny, smooth finish and slight ripples visible on the surface. The bars are arranged on crumpled white parchment paper placed over a white marbled texture surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To really impress your guests or treat yourself, sprinkle a few mini chocolate chips or crushed peppermint candies on top after pouring the chocolate layer, before chilling. A dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of melted white chocolate can add an elegant touch, too.

Side Dishes

Pair these mint chocolate brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a truly decadent experience. A cup of strong coffee or a minty hot chocolate also complements these flavors wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the brownies into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a festive platter topped with fresh mint leaves for a charming look. You might also serve them in decorative cupcake liners to make them easy to grab at parties or potlucks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Classic Mint Chocolate Brownies Recipe, be sure to store them tightly wrapped in the refrigerator to keep the mint frosting firm and the chocolate layer intact. They’ll stay fresh and ready to enjoy for up to five days, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert.

Freezing

You can freeze these brownies either whole (wrapped tightly) or cut into squares and stored in airtight containers with parchment paper between layers. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture, then bring to room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Since these brownies are best served cool or at room temperature, reheat them gently if you like slightly warm treats. A few seconds in the microwave can soften the chocolate and mint frosting but watch carefully to avoid melting everything too much.

FAQs

Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?

Peppermint oil is much stronger than peppermint extract, so if you substitute, use it sparingly. Start with just a drop and taste before adding more to avoid overpowering the frosting.

What if I don’t have parchment paper?

You can grease the pan lightly with butter or nonstick spray and dust with cocoa powder if parchment isn’t available. This helps to prevent sticking and still allows for easy removal.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to keep the brownies from crumbling.

How long should the brownies chill before adding the chocolate layer?

It’s best to chill the mint frosting layer for at least one hour to set properly before pouring on the chocolate. This prevents mixing of layers and helps maintain the distinct layers of flavor.

Why do my chocolate toppings sometimes get streaky?

This can happen if the butter and chocolate aren’t melted smoothly or if the temperature difference between the layers is too extreme. Take your time melting and make sure the mint frosting is chilled but not frozen when you add the chocolate.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to bring together this scrumptious Classic Mint Chocolate Brownies Recipe, there’s nothing stopping you from baking up a batch of joy that everyone will rave about. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again, whether for a cozy night in or a festive celebration. Trust me, once you taste these brownies, they’ll become one of your all-time favorites too!