Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These brownies offer the perfect balance of intense chocolate flavor and cool mint freshness. The fudgy texture pairs beautifully with the creamy mint layer and silky chocolate topping, creating layers of flavor and texture in every bite. Plus, they’re easy to make and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
For the brownie layer:
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1/2 cup unsalted butter
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1 cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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1/4 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp baking powder
For the mint layer:
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1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1/4 tsp peppermint extract
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2-3 tbsp milk
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Green food coloring (optional)
For the chocolate ganache:
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4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
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1/2 cup heavy cream
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Prepare the Brownies:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan.
Melt butter and mix with sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
Stir in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined.
Pour batter into pan and bake for 20-25 minutes. Let cool completely. -
Make the Mint Layer:
Beat powdered sugar and softened butter until smooth.
Add peppermint extract and enough milk to reach spreadable consistency.
Add green food coloring if desired.
Spread mint layer evenly over cooled brownies. -
Prepare Ganache:
Heat heavy cream until simmering, then pour over chopped chocolate.
Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
Pour ganache over mint layer and spread evenly. -
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate brownies for at least 1 hour before cutting.
Cut into squares and serve.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 16
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Prep time: 20 minutes
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Bake time: 25 minutes
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Chill time: 1 hour
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Total time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Variations
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White Chocolate: Use white chocolate ganache instead of semi-sweet.
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Nutty: Add chopped peppermint candies or crushed Andes mints on top.
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Vegan: Use dairy-free butter and cream substitutes, and egg replacer.
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Spicy Mint: Add a pinch of cayenne for a minty kick.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with gluten-free baking mix.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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Freezing: Freeze brownies wrapped tightly for up to 3 months.
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Serving: Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
FAQs
Can I use mint extract instead of peppermint?
Yes, mint extract works but peppermint is more traditional.
How do I keep the ganache shiny?
Use heavy cream and don’t over-stir once combined.
Can I make brownies ahead?
Yes, brownies and mint layer can be made in advance and assembled later.
Can I use boxed brownie mix?
Yes, for convenience, then add mint and ganache layers.
How thick should the mint layer be?
About 1/4 inch thick for good balance.
Can I substitute heavy cream?
Use full-fat coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative.
Are these brownies very sweet?
Balanced sweetness with refreshing mint contrast.
Can I add crushed candy cane?
Yes, sprinkle on top before ganache sets.
How do I cut clean squares?
Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust baking time accordingly.
Conclusion
Ultimate Mint Brownies are the perfect combination of rich chocolate and refreshing mint, layered for maximum indulgence. Whether for a special occasion or a treat-yourself moment, these brownies deliver a sophisticated, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.

Ultimate Mint Brownies
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ultimate Mint Brownies are rich, fudgy chocolate brownies layered with a creamy, refreshing mint filling and topped with a glossy chocolate ganache. This decadent dessert delivers a perfect balance of intense chocolate and cool mint, making it an irresistible treat for mint lovers and a show-stopping addition to any dessert table or celebration.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Layer:
-
1/2 cup unsalted butter
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1 cup granulated sugar
-
2 large eggs
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
-
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
-
1/4 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp baking powder
For the Mint Layer:
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1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
1/4 tsp peppermint extract
-
2-3 tbsp milk
-
Green food coloring (optional)
For the Chocolate Ganache:
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4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
-
Prepare the Brownies:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan. Melt butter and mix with sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Stir in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined. Pour batter into pan and bake for 20-25 minutes. Let cool completely. -
Make the Mint Layer:
Beat powdered sugar and softened butter until smooth. Add peppermint extract and enough milk to reach a spreadable consistency. Add green food coloring if desired. Spread mint layer evenly over cooled brownies. -
Prepare Ganache:
Heat heavy cream until simmering, then pour over chopped chocolate. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Pour ganache over mint layer and spread evenly. -
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate brownies for at least 1 hour before cutting. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
Use peppermint extract for a classic mint flavor; mint extract can be substituted but has a different taste.Chill the brownies well for clean cuts and set ganache.For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and cream with plant-based alternatives and use egg replacers.Add crushed peppermint candies or Andes mints on top for extra texture and flavor.