This recipe will guide you through the creation of a decadent dessert, rich in contrasting flavors and textures. You will bake moist chocolate brownies, layer a smooth, creamy mint filling on top, and finish them off with a glossy chocolate ganache. The added crunch of Andes mint baking chips is the final touch that elevates these brownies from delicious to downright irresistible.
Most of the ingredients required for this recipe are common pantry items, such as butter, powdered sugar, and heavy whipping cream. The key ingredient to pay attention to is the Andes mint baking chips. These mint-flavored chocolate chips might not be available in all supermarkets, making it necessary for you to check either the baking or candy aisle. If you can't find them, you can substitute with regular chocolate chips and a drop more of mint extract.
Ingredients for Chocolate Mint Ganache Brownies
Brownie mix: This is the base for our recipe, serving as the chocolate component in our chocolate mint pairing.
Butter: Adds a rich, creamy texture to our mint filling, and helps bind the powdered sugar and cream.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens our mint filling.
Heavy whipping cream: Used in both the filling and the ganache to provide a luscious, creamy consistency.
Mint extract: Gives our filling a refreshing mint flavor.
Green food coloring: Optional, but adds a fun, vibrant green color to our mint filling.
Milk chocolate chips: When melted with the cream, forms a decadent chocolate ganache.
Andes mint baking chips: Adds an extra touch of minty flavor and a pleasing crunch to our brownies.
One reader, Guinna Fugate says:
These chocolate mint ganache brownies are a delightful treat! The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing mint creates a perfect balance of flavors. The ganache topping adds a luxurious touch, making these brownies a decadent indulgence. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delightful and satisfying dessert experience.
Techniques Required for Making Chocolate Mint Ganache Brownies
How to prepare the brownie: Follow the instructions on the brownie mix box to prepare the brownie batter. Pour the batter into a greased 9x13 pan and bake according to the temperature and time specified on the box.
How to make the mint filling: In a bowl, mix softened butter, powdered sugar, heavy whipping cream, mint extract, and green food coloring until well combined. This will create a smooth and creamy mint filling.
How to make the ganache: In a small pot, combine the milk chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream. Melt the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. This will create a rich and glossy ganache.
How to assemble the brownies: Once the brownie base has cooled, spread the mint filling evenly over the top. Then, pour the ganache over the mint filling and spread it out evenly. Finally, sprinkle the Andes mint baking chips on top of the ganache for added flavor and decoration.
How To Make Chocolate Ganache Mint Brownies
The classic combination of mint & chocolate is the highlight of this recipe for fudgy mint brownies. These decadent treats takes less than an hour to make.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Brownie:
- 1boxbrownie mix,plus all ingredients listed on box
For Mint Filling:
- ½cupbutter,softened
- 3cupspowdered sugar
- ⅓cupheavy whipping cream
- 1tbspmint extract
- green food coloring
For Ganache:
- ½cupheavy whipping cream
- 1½cupsmilk chocolate chips
- Andes Mint Baking Chips
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to temperature listed on the back of your brownie box.
-
Prepare the brownie mix according to box instructions and pour into a greased 9×13-inch pan. Bake.
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When cooled, place softened butter, powdered sugar, heavy whipping cream, mint extract and green food coloring in a bowl and mix well.
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Spread the mint filling over the brownies.
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In a small pot, add chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream. Melt on low heat stirring constantly. Pour evenly over the mint filling.
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Top with Andes Mint Baking Bits.
Nutrition
- Calories: 548.78kcal
- Fat: 24.90g
- Saturated Fat: 13.70g
- Trans Fat: 0.36g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.99g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.82g
- Carbohydrates: 79.15g
- Fiber: 0.79g
- Sugar: 66.05g
- Protein: 3.59g
- Cholesterol: 47.18mg
- Sodium: 137.33mg
- Calcium: 46.74mg
- Potassium: 17.44mg
- Iron: 1.49mg
- Vitamin A: 133.59µg
- Vitamin C: 0.33mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Chocolate Mint Ganache Brownies
When making the mint filling, it's important to add the green food coloring gradually. Start with a few drops, mix it in, and check the color. If you want a deeper green, add a few more drops. This way, you can control the intensity of the color to your liking. Also, when melting the chocolate chips for the ganache, ensure the heat is low and you're stirring constantly. This prevents the chocolate from burning and ensures a smooth, glossy finish.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Chocolate Mint Ganache Brownies
Prepare the brownie mix: Use a store-bought brownie mix to save time on measuring and mixing ingredients.
Use pre-made ganache: Consider using pre-made ganache instead of making it from scratch to save time and effort.
Chill the brownies: Place the brownies in the refrigerator to speed up the cooling process before adding the mint filling and ganache.
Organize ingredients: Gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment before starting to streamline the cooking process.
Bake in advance: Consider baking the brownies a day ahead to allow them to cool completely before adding the mint filling and ganache.
Substitute Ingredients For Chocolate Ganache Mint Brownies Recipe
brownie mix - Substitute with homemade brownie mix: Homemade brownie mix can be easily made using flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking powder. This allows for better control over the ingredients and can result in a richer and more flavorful brownie.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in baking, providing a similar texture and flavor to the brownie.
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Granulated sugar can be used as a substitute for powdered sugar in the mint filling, although it may result in a slightly different texture.
heavy whipping cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative to heavy whipping cream, providing a rich and creamy texture to the mint filling.
mint extract - Substitute with peppermint extract: Peppermint extract can be used as a substitute for mint extract, providing a similar minty flavor to the filling.
green food coloring - Substitute with spinach powder: Spinach powder can be used as a natural food coloring alternative, providing a green hue to the mint filling without artificial colors.
heavy whipping cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative to heavy whipping cream, providing a rich and creamy texture to the ganache.
milk chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips can be used as a substitute for milk chocolate chips in the ganache, providing a richer and more intense chocolate flavor.
andes mint baking chips - Substitute with chopped mint chocolate: Chopped mint chocolate can be used as a substitute for andes mint baking chips, providing a similar minty chocolate flavor to the brownies.
Presentation Ideas for Chocolate Mint Ganache Brownies
Elevate the plating: When presenting the chocolate mint ganache brownies, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use clean lines and precise placement of the brownie squares to showcase the layers and textures of the dessert.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves: Add a touch of freshness and color to the plate by garnishing each brownie square with a sprig of fresh mint leaves. The vibrant green hue will complement the rich chocolate and mint flavors, while also adding a sophisticated touch to the presentation.
Incorporate artistic chocolate drizzles: Create intricate chocolate drizzles on the plate using a piping bag filled with melted chocolate. Incorporate delicate designs or patterns around the brownie squares to add a professional and artistic flair to the presentation.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Choose sophisticated serving ware such as sleek white plates or minimalist platters to showcase the chocolate mint ganache brownies. The use of high-quality serving ware will elevate the overall presentation and highlight the dessert as a refined culinary creation.
Balance the composition: Pay attention to the balance and symmetry of the plating. Arrange the brownie squares and garnishes thoughtfully, ensuring that the presentation is visually balanced and harmonious, reflecting the precision and attention to detail expected in a Michelin-starred setting.
Emphasize the layers: Highlight the layers of the brownie, mint filling, and ganache by carefully layering the components on the plate. Aim to create a visually striking display that accentuates the decadent layers of the dessert, showcasing the complexity of flavors and textures.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For an opulent touch, consider delicately placing edible gold leaf on the plate to add a luxurious and extravagant element to the presentation. The shimmering gold accents will elevate the dessert and convey a sense of sophistication.
Incorporate a dusting of cocoa powder: Use a fine sieve to dust a light layer of cocoa powder over the plated brownies. This subtle addition will enhance the visual appeal of the dessert and add a touch of elegance to the overall presentation.
Create a composed dessert plate: Arrange the plated brownies alongside a quenelle of mint-infused whipped cream or a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream to create a composed dessert plate that offers a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
Consider the negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the dessert to be the focal point while maintaining a sense of refinement and sophistication in the overall presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Chocolate Mint Ganache Brownies
Oven: An essential appliance for baking and roasting dishes, providing consistent and even heat distribution for cooking.
Mixing bowl: Used for combining ingredients and mixing batters, sauces, and dressings, available in various sizes to accommodate different recipes.
9x13 pan: A standard baking pan size suitable for making brownies, cakes, and other baked goods, providing a uniform depth for even cooking.
Small pot: Ideal for melting ingredients, making sauces, and heating liquids, offering precise temperature control and even heat distribution.
Food processor: A versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients, streamlining food preparation for various recipes.
Spatula: Essential for spreading and smoothing batters, frostings, and fillings, ensuring even distribution and a polished finish for baked goods.
Whisk: Used for blending, whipping, and incorporating air into mixtures, essential for achieving smooth and aerated textures in batters and sauces.
Greased 9x13 pan: A baking pan coated with a thin layer of fat or oil to prevent sticking, ensuring easy release and intact shape of baked goods.
Storing and Freezing Chocolate Mint Ganache Brownies
- Let the brownies cool completely before cutting into squares. If the ganache is still soft, place the pan in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow it to set.
- Store the chocolate mint ganache brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer a firmer ganache, store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the brownies:
- Wrap each brownie square individually in plastic wrap, ensuring a tight seal to prevent freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Freeze the chocolate mint ganache brownies for up to 2 months.
- To thaw frozen brownies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour. If you prefer a chilled brownie, you can thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
- For best results, consume the thawed brownies within 2 days. Do not refreeze previously frozen brownies, as this may affect their texture and quality.
How To Reheat Leftover Chocolate Mint Ganache Brownies
The best way to reheat leftover chocolate mint ganache brownies is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the brownies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the ganache is slightly melted. This method helps to maintain the texture and flavor of the brownies.
Another option is to use the microwave. Place the brownie on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 15-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the brownie, as it can become dry and tough. To prevent this, you can place a damp paper towel over the brownie before microwaving to help retain moisture.
If you want to enjoy your leftover chocolate mint ganache brownies cold, simply remove them from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to develop and the texture to soften slightly.
For a quick and easy treat, try crumbling the leftover brownies over a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of the warm, gooey brownie and the cool, creamy ice cream is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
If you have a lot of leftover brownies, consider transforming them into a new dessert. Crumble the brownies into a glass or jar, layering them with whipped cream, chocolate pudding, or your favorite fruit. This creates a delicious and visually appealing parfait that's perfect for a quick snack or an impressive dinner party dessert.
Interesting Fact About Chocolate Mint Ganache Brownies
The combination of chocolate and mint is believed to have originated in the United States during the late 19th century. The flavor pairing became popular due to its refreshing and indulgent taste, leading to the creation of various desserts and treats. This classic flavor combination has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite in the world of desserts.
Is Making Chocolate Mint Ganache Brownies at Home Cost-Effective?
This chocolate mint ganache brownies recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as brownie mix, butter, powdered sugar, and chocolate chips, are commonly found in most kitchens. However, the addition of mint extract and andes mint baking chips may require an extra purchase. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, considering the delightful combination of rich chocolate, refreshing mint, and creamy ganache, making it a decadent treat for any occasion.
Are Chocolate Mint Ganache Brownies Healthy or Unhealthy?
The chocolate mint ganache brownies recipe is undeniably delicious, but it's far from being a healthy treat. Let's break down the ingredients:
- Brownie mix: Often high in sugar and processed ingredients
- Butter: High in saturated fat
- Powdered sugar: Refined sugar with no nutritional value
- Heavy whipping cream: High in calories and saturated fat
- Milk chocolate chips: Contain added sugar and fat
While enjoying a small portion occasionally is fine, regularly indulging in these brownies can contribute to weight gain, increased risk of heart disease, and other health issues.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Use a whole wheat or gluten-free brownie mix to increase fiber content
- Replace some of the butter with mashed avocado or Greek yogurt to reduce saturated fat
- Cut back on the powdered sugar in the mint filling or use a natural sweetener like stevia
- Opt for dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for added antioxidants and less sugar
- Reduce the amount of heavy cream or use a lower-fat alternative like coconut milk
By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the delightful flavors of chocolate and mint while minimizing the negative health impacts. Remember, moderation is key when it comes to indulgent desserts like these brownies.
Editor's Opinion on This Decadent Chocolate Mint Dessert
The combination of rich chocolate brownies, refreshing mint filling, and smooth ganache creates a delightful treat with layers of flavor and texture. The recipe is well-structured and easy to follow, making it accessible for home bakers. The use of mint extract and green food coloring adds a vibrant touch, enhancing the visual appeal. However, for a more sophisticated touch, consider using fresh mint leaves for a natural flavor and a pop of color. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful balance of sweetness and freshness, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Enhance Your Chocolate Ganache Mint Brownies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Chocolate Ganache Mint Brownies Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a decadent treat, combining the rich flavors of chocolate and the refreshing essence of mint. The brownie base is a reliable boxed mix, ensuring consistent results. The homemade mint filling adds a personal touch, infusing the brownies with a burst of cool, invigorating flavor. The luscious ganache crowns the brownies, providing a velvety, indulgent finish. Trust the expertise behind this recipe to deliver a delightful fusion of chocolate and mint, perfect for any occasion.
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