Name: Irish Mint Brownies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter; 6 ounces Baking Dark Chocolate; 1 1/4 cup White Granulated Sugar; 1 cup All-Purpose Flour; 2 Large Eggs; 2 1/2 cups Powdered Sugar; 4 ounces Cream Cheese; 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter; 1/2 teaspoon Peppermint Extract; a few drops Gel Mint Green Food Coloring; 2 ounces Dark Baking Chocolate

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

When the craving for something sweet strikes, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of whipping up a batch of Irish Mint Brownies. These delightful treats have a special place in my heart, as they remind me of cozy gatherings with family and friends. I can still remember the first time I tasted these scrumptious brownies at a festive occasion. The rich, fudgy chocolate base paired with the refreshing mint is a combination that leaves a lasting impression. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down through generations, and each time I make it, I feel connected to those beautiful moments.

As I mix the ingredients together, the memories flood back—sharing laughter and stories around the table, with everyone eagerly waiting for that first bite of these delicious brownies. The aroma of melting chocolate fills the kitchen, drawing everyone in like a sweet siren song. It’s a recipe that brings people together, and I love serving these Irish Mint Brownies during the holidays or any time I want to spread some joy. Let’s dive into what makes this dessert so irresistible!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Oven, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why This Irish Mint Brownies Is So Good

Rich Chocolate Flavor

One of the standout features of Irish Mint Brownies is the intense chocolate flavor. The combination of melted dark chocolate and rich cocoa powder creates a fudgy texture that is simply divine. Each bite is a chocolate lover’s dream come true, making it hard to resist going back for seconds.

Refreshing Mint Twist

The addition of mint is what truly elevates these brownies. It’s not just any mint either; we use peppermint extract to bring that refreshing flavor to life. This subtle yet vibrant taste complements the chocolate perfectly, making each bite a delightful experience.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or simply a cozy night in, Irish Mint Brownies are always a hit. Their eye-catching green color from the gel food coloring adds a festive touch that makes them perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any celebration. They also make an excellent treat to share with friends and family.

Easy to Make

You don’t need to be a professional baker to whip up these brownies. The recipe is straightforward, and most of the ingredients are pantry staples. It only takes a few simple steps to create a decadent dessert that looks and tastes impressive.

Decadent Cream Cheese Filling

The cream cheese filling is the true star of these brownies. It’s smooth, creamy, and adds a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate base. The filling is easy to make and comes together quickly, making these brownies even more special.

Great Texture

These brownies have a fantastic texture that’s both fudgy and chewy. The outer layer has a slight crust that gives way to a moist interior. This contrast makes them enjoyable to eat, and they’re sure to please the crowd.

Shopping List for Irish Mint Brownies

When it comes to making the Irish Mint Brownies, the ingredients play a crucial role in achieving that perfect flavor and texture. Each component works harmoniously to create a delicious treat. The key players in this recipe include unsalted butter, dark chocolate, and eggs. Let’s explore each ingredient to understand their importance.

Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup – Provides richness and moisture to the brownies, enhancing their fudgy texture.
Baking Dark Chocolate: 6 ounces – The primary source of chocolate flavor, melting into a luscious base for the brownies.
White Granulated Sugar: 1 1/4 cup – Sweetens the brownies and helps achieve the right consistency.
All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup – Gives structure to the brownies, balancing the fudginess with a little lift.
Large Eggs: 2 – Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the brownies’ moist texture.
Powdered Sugar: 2 1/2 cups or more – Used for the creamy filling, giving it a sweet and smooth finish.
Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened to room temperature – Adds a rich, creamy texture to the filling, making it irresistible.
Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons, softened to room temperature – Enhances the cream cheese filling’s richness.
Peppermint Extract: 1/2 teaspoon – Infuses the brownies with that refreshing mint flavor.
Gel Mint Green Food Coloring: a few drops – Adds a festive touch to the brownies, making them visually appealing.
Dark Baking Chocolate: 2 ounces, melted – Used as a drizzle on top, adding richness and a decorative finish.

The Method for Irish Mint Brownies

Making Irish Mint Brownies is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with delicious aromas. Let’s walk through the steps together, ensuring you achieve the best results. Follow these detailed instructions for perfectly fudgy brownies.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential to ensure even baking. As the oven heats up, gather your ingredients and prepare your baking pan.
Line an 8-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil, allowing it to extend over the edges. This makes lifting the brownies out easier once they’re baked. Grease the foil lightly with some batter or baking spray and set the pan aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and the 6 ounces of baking dark chocolate over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and melted, avoiding scorching.
Once melted, remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly. Then, stir in the remaining brownie ingredients: white granulated sugar, eggs, and all-purpose flour. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Make sure to smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. The brownies are ready when they start to pull away from the sides of the pan and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is important to achieve the best texture.
In a large bowl, combine the filling ingredients: cream cheese, powdered sugar, and the softened unsalted butter. Beat at medium speed until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
Once the brownies are cooled, spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the top. This adds a delicious layer that perfectly contrasts the chocolate.
Melt the remaining 2 ounces of dark baking chocolate and drizzle it over the cream cheese filling. This creates a beautiful finish and adds extra chocolate flavor.
Chill the brownies in the refrigerator for a few hours to set. When ready to serve, lift them out of the pan using the foil handles, cut into bars, and enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness; it should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Allow Cooling: Cool the brownies completely in the pan to avoid crumbling when cutting them.
Beat Cream Cheese Well: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

While the classic Irish Mint Brownies are delightful as is, here are some ideas to customize them to your liking.

Add Nuts: Incorporating chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch to the brownies.
Use Different Extracts: Instead of peppermint, try different extracts like orange or almond for a unique flavor.
Make them Vegan: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free chocolate for a vegan version.
Top with Whipped Cream: Serve brownies warm with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
Experiment with Frosting: You could frost these brownies with chocolate ganache instead of the cream cheese filling for a richer taste.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Irish Mint Brownies, the possibilities are endless! Here are some creative ideas to enhance your dessert experience:

Pair with Ice Cream: Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla or mint chocolate chip ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Perfect for Gatherings: These brownies are a fantastic addition to dessert tables at parties or potlucks.
Seasonal Serving: Their vibrant color makes them a great treat for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Kid-Friendly Treat: Kids love these brownies! Offer them as a sweet treat after school or during playdates.
Storage Tips: Keep leftovers stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for up to a week.
Serve with Coffee: These brownies pair beautifully with a strong cup of coffee, balancing the sweetness.

FAQ

Absolutely! Adding chopped walnuts or pecans can give your Irish Mint Brownies an extra crunch and flavor. Simply fold in about a cup of your chosen nuts to the brownie batter before baking. This will enhance the texture and provide a delightful contrast to the fudginess of the brownies.

To keep your Irish Mint Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure they are completely cool before sealing them in the container to prevent moisture buildup.

Yes, you can make Irish Mint Brownies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose is designed for baking to maintain the right texture and consistency. The rest of the ingredients can remain the same, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free treat!

Yes! You can freeze Irish Mint Brownies for up to three months. To do so, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place them in an airtight freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Conclusion

The Irish Mint Brownies are a delightful treat that beautifully combines rich chocolate with refreshing mint. It’s a perfect dessert that can elevate any gathering or serve as a sweet indulgence at home. I encourage you to try making these brownies; their deliciousness is sure to impress everyone. Enjoy the process of baking and the joy that comes with sharing them with loved ones!