Indulge in the irresistible combination of rich chocolate and refreshing mint with these Mint Cream Cheese Brownies. This delightful bar recipe features fudgy chocolate layers sandwiching a cool, creamy mint cheesecake swirl, all crowned with a luscious chocolate frosting. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that promises to captivate every palate and become an instant favorite in your collection.
THE IRRESISTIBLE CHARM OF MINT CHOCOLATE BROWNIES
There’s an undeniable magic that happens when the deep, decadent flavor of chocolate meets the cool, invigorating freshness of mint. This timeless pairing creates a symphony of tastes that many find utterly irresistible, and these Mint Cream Cheese Brownies are a testament to that perfect culinary match. We’ve taken the classic brownie and elevated it to a new level of indulgence by incorporating a vibrant mint cream cheese filling, creating a dessert that is both familiar and excitingly unique. If you’re searching for a show-stopping mint chocolate recipe that’s surprisingly simple to execute, look no further than these sensational brownies.
Each bite of these brownies offers a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. You’ll first encounter the rich, fudgy exterior of the brownie, followed by the soft, creamy surprise of the mint-infused cheesecake center. The experience culminates with a smooth, glossy chocolate frosting that adds another layer of deep chocolatey goodness. This isn’t just a brownie; it’s a multi-layered masterpiece designed to satisfy your deepest dessert cravings. Perfect for special occasions, holidays, or simply as an everyday treat, these mint cream cheese brownies are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to try them.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MINT CREAM CHEESE BROWNIES
Absolutely! While our recipe provides instructions for homemade brownies, you can definitely cut down on prep time by using your favorite boxed brownie mix. We find that a fudge brownie mix works exceptionally well to maintain that rich, dense texture that pairs perfectly with the mint cream cheese filling. Just prepare the box mix according to package directions for an 8×8 inch pan, then proceed with adding the filling as instructed in our recipe.
No, adding chocolate chips to the filling is entirely optional. While they add an extra burst of chocolate flavor and a pleasant textural contrast, if you prefer to let the mint and cream cheese flavors shine without additional chocolate in the center, feel free to omit them. This is a matter of personal preference, and the brownies will be delicious either way.
The type of chocolate chips you use is completely up to your taste! For a balanced sweetness that complements the rich brownie and mint filling, we typically recommend semi-sweet chocolate chips in baking. However, if you love a sweeter profile, milk chocolate chips would be a fantastic choice. For those who enjoy a deeper, more intense chocolate experience, dark chocolate chips will add a lovely complexity.
Our chocolate frosting adds a luxurious finish and extra chocolate decadence that we adore, but it’s not strictly required. If you’re looking to reduce sugar or simply prefer a less intense dessert, you can certainly omit the frosting entirely. Alternatively, for convenience, a canned chocolate frosting can be used as a quick substitute. The brownies themselves are incredibly flavorful with just the mint cream cheese swirl, so feel free to customize to your liking.
To maintain their freshness and creamy texture, these brownies should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep beautifully for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, these brownies also freeze exceptionally well. Simply cut them into individual servings, place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and they will stay fresh for up to 2 months. To defrost, transfer them to the refrigerator overnight.
The green food coloring is purely for aesthetic appeal, giving the mint cream cheese layer its signature vibrant hue. It has no impact on the flavor. If you prefer to avoid artificial coloring or simply don’t have it on hand, you can omit it. The brownies will still be just as delicious, with a natural off-white cream cheese swirl.
KEY INGREDIENTS FOR UNFORGETTABLE MINT CREAM CHEESE BROWNIES
Crafting these delectable brownies requires a few essential ingredients, divided into three main components: the rich brownie base, the refreshing mint cream cheese filling, and the smooth chocolate frosting. Quality ingredients make all the difference in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
- For the Fudgy Brownies:
- Semi-sweet baking chocolate (for deep chocolate flavor)
- Unsalted butter (provides richness and moisture)
- Granulated sugar (sweetens and contributes to fudginess)
- Vanilla extract (enhances overall flavor)
- Eggs (bind ingredients and add structure)
- All-purpose flour (provides structure without being cakey)
- Salt (balances sweetness)
- For the Mint Cream Cheese Filling:
- Cream cheese (softened, for a smooth, tangy base)
- Granulated sugar (sweetens the filling)
- Peppermint extract (the star of the mint flavor!)
- Egg (adds richness and helps set the filling)
- Green food coloring (optional, for that classic mint green hue)
- Chocolate chips (optional, for extra chocolate bursts in the filling)
- For the Luscious Chocolate Frosting:
- Unsalted butter (for a rich, smooth frosting)
- Corn syrup (adds gloss and keeps frosting soft)
- Water (adjusts consistency)
- Semi-sweet baking chocolate (for intense chocolate flavor)
- Powdered sugar (sweetens and thickens the frosting)
HOW TO BAKE PERFECT MINT CREAM CHEESE BROWNIES: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
Creating these layered Mint Cream Cheese Brownies is a rewarding experience, and following these steps will ensure you achieve a moist, fudgy brownie with a delightful minty swirl and a rich chocolate topping.
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Environment
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). For easy removal and clean-up, generously grease an 8×8-inch baking dish, or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to create “handles.” This will make lifting the cooled brownies out of the pan much simpler.
Step 2: Melt the Brownie Chocolate Base
In a small, heatproof saucepan, combine the unsalted butter and semi-sweet baking chocolate. Melt them together over low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture is completely smooth and free of any lumps. Be careful not to scorch the chocolate. Once melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the other components. This cooling step is important to prevent the eggs from cooking prematurely.
Step 3: Prepare the Mint Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, peppermint extract, and one large egg until the mixture is light, fluffy, and completely smooth. Ensure there are no lumps of cream cheese remaining. If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring at this stage and beat until uniformly colored. Set this creamy mint filling aside.
Step 4: Incorporate Chocolate Chips (Optional)
Gently fold in the ½ cup of chocolate chips into the prepared cream cheese mixture using a spatula. This step is optional but adds an extra layer of chocolatey goodness to the minty filling. Once combined, set the filling aside.
Step 5: Combine Brownie Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the slightly cooled chocolate and butter mixture with the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and two large eggs. Beat these ingredients together with an electric mixer until they are well combined and smooth. The mixture should be glossy and homogenous.
Step 6: Add Dry Brownie Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet brownie mixture. Beat on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as overmixing can lead to tougher brownies. Mix until no streaks of flour are visible.
Step 7: Layer the Brownie Batter
Pour approximately half of the chocolate brownie batter into your prepared 8×8-inch baking dish. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the batter evenly across the bottom of the pan, creating a smooth, consistent base layer.
Step 8: Add the Mint Cream Cheese Layer
Carefully pour the entire mint cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter in the pan. Gently spread it out evenly over the chocolate layer, being mindful not to disturb the bottom brownie layer too much.
Step 9: Top with Remaining Brownie Batter and Bake
Spoon the remaining chocolate brownie batter over the cream cheese layer. Gently spread it out to cover the mint layer as much as possible. It doesn’t have to be perfectly smooth, as it will bake into a unified top. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the brownie (avoiding the cream cheese layer) comes out with moist crumbs, but not wet batter. Avoid overbaking to keep the brownies fudgy. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting. Cooling is crucial for neat slicing.
Step 10: Prepare the Chocolate Frosting
While the brownies are cooling, prepare your decadent chocolate frosting. In a small saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, corn syrup, and water. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until the butter is completely melted. Remove the saucepan from the heat immediately after it boils.
Step 11: Create the Frosting Consistency
Stir the semi-sweet baking chocolate into the hot mixture until it is completely melted and smooth. Then, gradually add the powdered sugar, stirring until you achieve a spreadable consistency. If the frosting is too thick, add a tiny bit more water (½ teaspoon at a time). If it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar. The goal is a smooth, glossy frosting that’s easy to spread.
Step 12: Frost and Set
Once the brownies are completely cooled, evenly spread the prepared chocolate frosting over the top. For a firm set and easier slicing, place the frosted brownies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until the frosting has fully set. Then, slice into squares and prepare to enjoy your amazing Mint Cream Cheese Brownies!
Enjoy every delightful bite!
LOOKING FOR MORE DELICIOUS DESSERT RECIPES?
If you loved these Mint Cream Cheese Brownies, you’re in for a treat with our other fantastic dessert creations. Explore more recipes that combine rich flavors and easy baking methods:
- Zesty Lemon Brownies
- Sweet Strawberry Brownies
- Delightful Mini Mint Chocolate Cheesecakes
- Classic Mint Chocolate Chip Swirl Brownies
- Elegant Mint Chocolate Bundt Cake
- Moist Zucchini Brownies
- Refreshing Mint Chocolate Poke Cake
- Irresistible Fudgy Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies
- Crunchy Butterfinger Brownies
- Vibrant Red Velvet Brownies
- Homemade Brownie Mix for Easy Baking
Mint Cream Cheese Brownies
Delicious chocolate and refreshing mint come together to make these incredible Mint Cream Cheese Brownies. A fun and easy bar recipe that no one can resist!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 16
Author: Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
Brownies:
- 2 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Filling:
- 8 ounce package cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 large egg
- 4 drops green food coloring (optional)
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
Frosting:
- 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 Tablespoon corn syrup
- 1 Tablespoon water
- 2 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a small saucepan, melt 2 ounces butter and 2 ounces semi-sweet chocolate until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
- With an electric mixer, beat together the cream cheese, ¼ cup granulated sugar, peppermint extract, and 1 large egg until smooth and creamy. Stir in green food coloring if desired.
- If using, fold in the ½ cup chocolate chips into the cream cheese filling. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, beat together the cooled chocolate mixture, ¾ cup granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and 2 large eggs until well combined.
- Beat in the all-purpose flour and salt on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour half of the chocolate brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Carefully pour the mint cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter.
- Top with the remaining chocolate brownie batter, spreading gently to cover the cream cheese layer. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the chocolate portion comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
- For the frosting, in a small saucepan, heat 1 Tablespoon butter, corn syrup, and water. Bring to a boil, then immediately remove from heat.
- Stir in 2 ounces semi-sweet chocolate until melted and smooth. Gradually stir in ¾ cup powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the completely cooled brownies. Place in the refrigerator to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For convenience, a boxed brownie mix can be used for the brownie base.
- This recipe is easily doubled; simply use a larger baking pan (e.g., 9×13 inch) and adjust baking time as needed.
- Chocolate chips in the filling are optional and can be omitted if preferred.
- Brownies can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Nutrition
Calories: 284kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 16g | Sodium: 100mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 26g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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