Chocolate Mint Brownie Squares

Name: Chocolate Mint Brownie Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 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 salt; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract; Green food coloring (optional); Chocolate shavings or chips

Highlighted under: Oven Kitchen

I absolutely adore these Chocolate Mint Brownie Squares for their rich, decadent flavor that perfectly balances chocolate and mint. Each bite feels like a little piece of heaven, especially when topped with creamy mint frosting. We enjoy serving these treats at gatherings and parties because they always disappear quickly! The best part is the simplicity of the recipe; it requires minimal ingredients and effort, allowing me to whip them up whenever a chocolate craving strikes.

Created by

Winifred Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:29:42.471Z

When I first experimented with these Chocolate Mint Brownie Squares, I thought about how wonderfully chocolate and mint complement each other. The idea was to create a fudgy brownie base topped with dreamy mint frosting that brings freshness to the rich chocolate flavor. After several trials, I found that using a blend of dark cocoa and real mint extract gives the best flavor and aroma.

A tip I can share is to let the brownies cool completely before adding the frosting; this helps the layers to set better and prevents the frosting from melting away. Each square is a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with refreshing mint aroma
Fudgy texture that satisfies every chocolate craving
Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations

The Balance of Chocolate and Mint

The combination of chocolate and mint in these brownies is not just a flavor pairing; it's a harmonious relationship that elevates the overall experience. The unsweetened cocoa powder not only provides a deep chocolate flavor but also contributes to the fudgy texture that is signature to a great brownie. By using peppermint extract in the frosting, you can enhance the mint flavor without overpowering the rich chocolate. This careful balance makes each square a delightful treat that pleases the palate with contrasting yet complementary flavors.

To achieve the perfect chocolate-mint ratio, be mindful of the quality of the cocoa and peppermint extract you use. I recommend using a high-quality cocoa powder, as it can significantly impact the brownie’s richness. Likewise, pure peppermint extract is preferable to imitation, as it delivers a more authentic taste. If you want to experiment with flavors, consider adding a touch of espresso powder to the brownie batter; it enhances the chocolate while providing a subtle depth that pairs beautifully with mint.

Tips for the Perfect Brownie Texture

Achieving that desired fudgy texture in your brownies can sometimes be tricky, but there are a few tips to ensure success. First, be cautious not to overmix the brownie batter after adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing can incorporate excess air, resulting in a cake-like texture instead of the rich, dense fudginess we want. Stir until just combined, and you’ll be rewarded with brownies that are chewy and indulgent.

Another key factor is the baking time. Since ovens can vary, I recommend checking the brownies at the 20-minute mark. You want them to slightly underbake for that fudgy consistency—look for a few moist crumbs on the toothpick rather than it coming out completely clean. Allow them to cool in the pan; this will set them further as they continue cooking from residual heat, creating that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Mint Brownie Squares can be easily stored and served on various occasions. Once cooled and frosted, you can store them in an airtight container for up to a week in the refrigerator. If you’d like to freeze them, place separates squares between layers of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They’ll maintain their quality for about three months, making them a great make-ahead dessert for parties or gatherings.

When it comes to serving, these brownies are delicious as-is, but you can elevate them further with a scoop of vanilla or mint-flavored ice cream on the side. A drizzle of chocolate sauce and some fresh mint leaves can also make an impressive presentation. For a fun twist, consider swapping the mint frosting with flavored whipped cream or a thin layer of ganache for different taste experiences—each variation can turn these brownies into a new favorite!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Chocolate Mint Brownie Squares:

For the Brownies

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
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 salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder

For the Mint Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
Green food coloring (optional)

For Topping (Optional)

Chocolate shavings or chips

Make sure you have everything ready to go before starting to ensure a smooth baking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bring your Chocolate Mint Brownie Squares to life:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix the Brownie Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Add the eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth. Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder, stirring just until combined.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cooling in the pan.

Make the Mint Frosting

While the brownies cool, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and food coloring until light and fluffy.

Frost and Serve

Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the mint frosting over them evenly. Cut into squares, garnish with chocolate shavings if desired, and enjoy!

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, although they’re usually gone much sooner!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding finely chopped dark chocolate to the brownie batter before baking. It adds a delightful richness and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make these brownies gluten-free, substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend works well. Brands like Bob's Red Mill or King Arthur Flour provide great results, ensuring you won’t miss out on that lovely texture. For a dairy-free version, you can replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute, along with non-dairy milk for the frosting.

For those avoiding refined sugars, try using coconut sugar or a sugar alternative that measures cup-for-cup. Keep in mind that different sweeteners can alter the texture and flavor slightly, so choose one that aligns with your dietary needs while maintaining enjoyment in the brownie experience.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your brownies turn out too cakey, it may be due to overmixing or overbaking. Ensure to mix just until combined and check for doneness to avoid excess air incorporation. For a drier outcome, consider reducing bake time or lowering your oven temperature slightly to maintain moisture within the brownies.

On the flip side, if your brownies don’t hold together or are too gooey, ensure they have cooled sufficiently before cutting into squares. Allowing them to cool for at least 15-20 minutes and storing in the fridge for an hour can help firm them up, providing a better texture and cut.

Creative Variations

For a fun twist on the classic, try adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the brownie batter for added texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark, white, or even butterscotch, to create unique flavor profiles that excite your taste buds.

Another enjoyable variation is to incorporate layers or swirls of different flavors. For instance, you might spread a layer of raspberry jam before topping with mint frosting or mix crushed Oreo cookies into the frosting for added crunch. These small adjustments can breathe new life into the recipe while still keeping the essence of those delicious chocolate mint brownie squares.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free flour for the brownies?

Yes, you can substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

→ How can I make these brownies more minty?

Feel free to increase the amount of peppermint extract in the frosting to your taste!

→ What's the best way to store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the fridge for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Absolutely! You can freeze the frosted or unfrosted brownies for up to three months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.