Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent chocolate brownie with a surprising twist of cool, refreshing mint and creamy cheese swirls. These Mint Cream Cheese Brownies are not just a dessert; they're a sensational flavor experience that will transform your ordinary baking routine into an extraordinary culinary adventure. Whether you're a chocolate lover, a mint enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates mind-blowing desserts, this recipe promises to be your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 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
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Green food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Remove from heat and whisk in granulated sugar until well combined and slightly smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, whisking thoroughly after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, sift together cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and green food coloring (if using). Mix until creamy and well incorporated.
- Pour the chocolate brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly with a spatula.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mint cream cheese mixture on top of the brownie batter. Use a knife to create swirl patterns by gently dragging the cream cheese through the chocolate base.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This will take approximately 1-2 hours.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut into 12 equal squares.
- For best flavor and texture, refrigerate the brownies for at least 1 hour before serving. This will help the cream cheese layer set and enhance the mint flavor.
Tips
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Don't overmix the brownie batter - this can lead to tough, dense brownies.
- Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant green mint layer if desired.
- For clean, precise cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each slice.
- Refrigerating the brownies helps set the cream cheese layer and intensifies the mint flavor.
- For extra indulgence, serve chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 270kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 75mg
