Description
Melting Mint Brownies offer a luxurious chocolate journey with cool mint undertones. Rich chocolate layers combine with refreshing peppermint, creating an irresistible dessert that will leave you craving another delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 + ½ cups sugar
- ¾ cup butter (melted)
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ cup unbleached all-purpose flour
Binding and Leavening Agents:
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
Mint Frosting Ingredients:
- 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 5 tablespoons softened butter
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon milk (if needed)
- ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
- 4 or 5 drops green food coloring
Optional Topping:
- 1 bag small peppermint patties
Instructions
- Prepare the baking equipment by preheating the oven to 350°F (177°C) and lining a 9×13-inch (23×33 centimeters) baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring full coverage of the bottom and sides.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Incorporate cocoa powder and mix using a low-speed electric mixer until the mixture becomes smooth and homogeneous.
- Introduce eggs to the chocolate mixture, beating on low speed until the texture becomes creamy and well-integrated.
- Gently fold in all-purpose flour and baking powder, mixing until ingredients are just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender brownie texture.
- Transfer the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a uniform layer approximately 1/2 inch (1.3 centimeters) thick.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-22 minutes. Remove and allow the brownies to cool completely at room temperature, which typically takes about 1 hour.
- Prepare the mint frosting by whipping unsalted butter and sour cream together until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Gradually incorporate powdered sugar into the butter mixture, beating on medium speed for 5-6 minutes. If the frosting seems too thick, add milk (at a time) to achieve a spreadable consistency.
- Enhance the frosting with peppermint extract and a few drops of green food coloring, mixing until the color is evenly distributed.
- Once the brownies have cooled, spread the mint frosting in a smooth, even layer across the entire surface.
- Refrigerate the frosted brownies for 20-25 minutes to allow the frosting to set and become firm.
- Remove from refrigerator and slice into 20 equal squares using a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.
- Garnish each brownie square with a peppermint patty placed in the center for an additional burst of mint flavor.
- Store the brownies in an airtight container in a cool, dry location for 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent moisture accumulation.
Notes
- Cooling time matters more than you might think, ensuring your brownies set perfectly without becoming soggy.
- Refrigerating the frosted brownies helps the mint layer firm up and creates a delightful texture contrast.
- Peppermint patties add a professional bakery-style finishing touch that elevates these homemade treats.
- Room temperature ingredients blend smoother, especially eggs and butter, creating a more consistent brownie base.
- Sour cream in the frosting brings a tangy richness that balances the sweet mint flavor brilliantly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking, Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 20
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg