Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with these incredibly moist, dense, and fudgy dark chocolate brownies. These aren’t just any brownies; they’re generously loaded with the iconic crunch of Girl Scout Thin Mints and the creamy melt of Andes Mint candies, all crowned with a rich chocolate frosting. Each bite promises an explosion of mint and chocolate flavor that delivers an undeniable ‘WoW’ factor! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or looking for a quick yet impressive dessert, this recipe offers both options to create a truly unforgettable treat.
If the harmonious blend of chocolate and mint sends you to dessert heaven, you’re in for a spectacular experience. This recipe builds on that beloved combination, taking it to new heights with beloved candy additions. For more mint chocolate inspiration, be sure to check out our Mint Chocolate Layered Brownies and our curated collection of 10 Awesome Chocolate Mint Brownies.
The Irresistible Allure of Mint Chocolate Brownies
There’s something uniquely captivating about the pairing of rich chocolate and refreshing mint. It’s a classic flavor combination that evokes comfort, celebration, and pure indulgence. These particular mint chocolate brownies are designed to be a showstopper for various occasions, making them a fantastic choice for festive holidays like St. Patrick’s Day and Christmas, or simply whenever a craving for this delightful duo strikes. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility: you can opt for a convenient shortcut using a premium brownie mix and store-bought chocolate frosting, or you can embrace the rewarding experience of baking them entirely from scratch.
Our shortcut approach makes these brownies incredibly accessible, even for the busiest of bakers. By starting with a high-quality brownie mix and ready-to-use chocolate frosting, you significantly reduce prep time without sacrificing flavor or texture. We then elevate these simple beginnings by generously incorporating chopped Thin Mints and Andes Candies into both the brownie batter and the frosting. The result is a surprisingly easy-to-make dessert that tastes anything but simple, boasting layers of minty goodness and deep chocolate decadence.
However, for those who prefer the satisfaction of homemade baking, we’ve also provided a full scratch recipe. This offers you the best of both worlds, allowing you to choose the method that best suits your time and preference. Whichever path you choose, you’ll end up with a batch of brownies that are sure to impress!
What Makes These Brownies Stand Out?
What truly sets these brownies apart is their perfectly balanced flavor profile. They deliver a pronounced chocolate and mint experience without being overwhelmingly minty. It’s that ideal equilibrium that leaves your taste buds craving more. The rich chocolate frosting, generously studded with additional Thin Mint crumbs and Andes Candies, acts as the crowning glory, adding another layer of texture and intensifying the overall mint-chocolate symphony. This thoughtful combination elevates these brownies from a simple dessert to a truly gourmet experience.
These decadent brownies are not just delicious; they’re also perfect for sharing. Their crowd-pleasing appeal means they’ll disappear quickly at any gathering, whether it’s a casual get-together with friends or a festive family celebration. Their vibrant minty notes make them particularly fitting for St. Patrick’s Day, while their rich chocolate base and festive toppings are a hit during the Christmas season. But honestly, any time of year is a good time for a Thin Mint & Andes Chocolate Brownie!
Choosing Your Brownie Base: Homemade or Shortcut?
One of the best features of this recipe is its versatility. We understand that not everyone has the time or desire to bake from scratch every time, which is why we offer both options.
The Shortcut: Using a Premium Brownie Mix
For a super easy and convenient approach, a high-quality boxed brownie mix is your best friend. Look for a “fudgy” or “dark chocolate” mix to ensure the best base for our minty additions. The beauty of this method is that you simply follow the package directions, let the brownies cool, and then the fun begins with the mint inclusions and frosting. This is perfect for busy individuals who want homemade taste with minimal effort.
The Homemade Path: From Scratch Brownies
For those who love the aroma of baking from scratch and the satisfaction of creating a dessert entirely on your own, our homemade recipe delivers a deeply rich, moist, and fudgy brownie base. Making brownies from scratch allows for greater control over the ingredients and can result in an even more profound chocolate flavor. Whichever method you choose, the key is not to overbake, ensuring those desirable moist and fudgy centers.
Ingredients You Need for Mint Chocolate Brownies
Whether you choose the homemade route or the shortcut with a boxed mix, the quality of your ingredients plays a crucial role in the final deliciousness of these brownies. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Brownies (Homemade Recipe for 9×13 pan or use your favorite boxed mix for 8×8, 9×9 or 9×13 size):
- ¾ cup + 2 Tablespoons unsweetened baking cocoa: Opt for a good quality cocoa powder for deep chocolate flavor.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Essential for leavening, creating that perfect brownie texture.
- ⅔ cup unsalted butter, melted and divided: Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness, crucial for baking.
- ½ cup boiling water: Helps to bloom the cocoa powder, intensifying its flavor.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and contributes to the brownies’ chewy texture.
- 2 large eggs: Act as a binder and add richness to the brownies.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor.
- 1 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour: The primary structural component of the brownies.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the chocolate notes.
- ⅓ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional): Adds extra pockets of melted chocolate.
- 20-30 Andes Mint Candies, chopped & divided into two groups, or Andes Mint baking chips: The signature minty crunch and flavor.
- 1 sleeve of Girl Scout Thin Mints, chopped into small chunks/crumbs, divided into two groups: Adds a unique cookie texture and intense mint chocolate flavor.
For the Chocolate Frosting & Toppings:
- 1 or 2 tubs of chocolate fudge frosting: Use 1 tub for 8×8 or 9×9 pan of brownies, or 2 tubs for a 9×13 pan brownies for a generous layer.
- Remaining chopped Andes Mints and Thin Mint cookie bits (from above): For the ultimate decorative and flavorful topping.
How to Make Mint Chocolate Brownies
Follow these straightforward steps to create your own batch of these incredible mint chocolate brownies. Remember, whether you’re using a mix or baking from scratch, the secret to perfect brownies is not to overbake them!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). For homemade brownies, grease a 9×13 baking pan. For easy removal and clean slices, you can also line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- **If using a boxed brownie mix:** Prepare the brownies according to the package directions for your chosen pan size (8×8, 9×9, or 9×13). Let them cool completely before proceeding to the frosting stage.
- **If making homemade brownies (for a 9×13 pan):** In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsweetened cocoa powder and baking soda. Blend them together briefly.
- Add ⅓ cup of the melted butter to the cocoa mixture and mix until well combined, forming a thick paste.
- Carefully pour in the boiling water and stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This step helps to “bloom” the cocoa, enhancing its flavor.
- Stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and the remaining ⅓ cup of melted butter until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough brownies.
- Pour the brownie batter into your greased (and parchment-lined, if desired) 9×13 baking pan.
- Gently fold in half of the chopped Andes Mints and half of the chopped Thin Mints. If using, also add the mini semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter and mix lightly to distribute.
- Sprinkle the remaining half of the chopped Andes Mints and Thin Mint cookie bits evenly over the top of the brownie batter.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes for homemade brownies, or according to your boxed mix instructions, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. The edges should just begin to pull away from the sides of the pan. It’s crucial not to overbake for fudgy brownies!
- Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. This step is essential before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Once cool, frost the brownies with your chocolate fudge frosting. Use 1 tub for an 8×8 or 9×9 pan, or 2 tubs for a 9×13 pan for a thicker, more decadent frosting layer.
- Finally, generously sprinkle the remaining Andes baking chips and Thin Mint cookie bits over the frosted brownies.
- Slice and enjoy your magnificent Mint Chocolate Brownies!
Storing Your Mint Chocolate Brownies
To keep your brownies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container or a resealable ziploc bag at room temperature for 2-3 days. For extended freshness, especially with the frosting, it’s best to refrigerate them. When refrigerated, they can last for up to a week. If you plan to serve them warm from the fridge, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These brownies are perfectly delightful on their own, offering a rich and satisfying treat. However, you can elevate the experience even further with thoughtful pairings. Enjoy them with a warm cup of hot cocoa, a freshly brewed coffee, or a large, cold glass of milk for a classic combination.
For a truly decadent, Hollywood-style dessert, warm a brownie slice slightly and top it with a generous scoop of mint chocolate chip ice cream. Drizzle it with hot fudge sauce for an explosion of flavors and textures that is utterly divine. Prepare for serious drooling!
With St. Patrick’s Day just around the corner, or any festive occasion that calls for a touch of green and a burst of flavor, these sweet treats are an absolute must-bake. Share a pan (or two!) with your friends and family and watch them disappear!
More Mint Chocolate Desserts You’ll Love!
Can’t get enough of the irresistible mint and chocolate combination? Explore more delightful recipes that celebrate this fantastic duo:
- Andes Mint Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers
- Triple Chocolate Mint Brownies with White Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
- Ultimate Peppermint Chocolate Fudge Brownies
- Holiday Chocolate Mint Poke Cake
- Peppermint Crunch Buttercream Marshmallow Brownies
- Holiday White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Mousse Pie
- Easy Mississippi Mud Oreo Brownies
- 20 St. Patrick’s Day Desserts
This recipe has been updated to include an easy shortcut version, providing you with flexible options for baking these delightful treats.
