Andes Mint Brownies

Indulge in the perfect fusion of rich, fudgy chocolate and refreshing mint with these Andes Mint Brownies. Each bite offers a decadent experience, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor Combination: The harmonious blend of deep chocolate and cool mint creates a delightful taste sensation.
• Fudgy Texture: These brownies boast a moist, chewy center with a slightly crisp top, satisfying all your dessert cravings.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible to bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, parties, or a cozy night in, these brownies are sure to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Light brown sugar
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Salt
• Instant coffee granules (optional)
• Baking powder
• Large eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Andes chocolate candies
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Heavy cream

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment paper with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Melt Butter and Sugars: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar, light brown sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, instant coffee granules (if using), and baking powder. Mix until well combined and let the mixture cool for about 5 minutes.
3. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the cooled butter mixture. Stir until the batter becomes smooth and shiny.
4. Add Flour: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a fudgy texture.
5. Add Andes Mints: Unwrap and chop the Andes chocolate candies. Fold half of the chopped mints into the batter, reserving the rest for topping.
6. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake.
7. Prepare the Ganache: While the brownies are cooling, prepare the chocolate ganache. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream. Heat in 15-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
8. Top with Ganache and Andes Mints: Once the brownies have cooled completely, spread the ganache evenly over the top. Sprinkle the remaining chopped Andes mints over the ganache layer.
9. Set and Serve: Place the brownies in the refrigerator for about 2 hours to allow the ganache to set. Once set, cut into squares and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 9 large brownies or 16 smaller squares.
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Cooling Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes

Variations

• Mint Frosting: Instead of ganache, top the brownies with a mint-flavored buttercream frosting for a sweeter, creamier finish.
• Double Chocolate: Add a handful of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the batter for an extra chocolatey experience.
• Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans to introduce a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: For extended freshness, keep the brownies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Note that refrigeration may firm up the texture.
• Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

To reheat, warm individual brownies in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. For a moister result, cover the brownie with a damp paper towel while microwaving.

FAQs

How do I achieve a shiny, crackly top on my brownies?

To achieve a shiny, crackly top, ensure that you whisk the eggs and sugars thoroughly until the mixture is pale and frothy. Additionally, melting the butter and sugars together helps form that glossy crust.

Can I use a boxed brownie mix and add Andes mints?

Yes, you can use a boxed brownie mix and fold in chopped Andes mints before baking. This is a quick and convenient way to enjoy mint brownies.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! To double the recipe, use a 9×13-inch baking pan. Keep in mind that baking times may need slight adjustments, so monitor the brownies closely as they bake.

Should I use a glass or metal baking pan?

A metal baking pan is recommended for brownies as it conducts heat more evenly, resulting in a better texture. If using a glass pan, you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly.

How can I tell when the brownies are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking and check again in a few minutes.

Can I add nuts to this brownie recipe?

Yes, adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can provide a delightful crunch and complement the chocolate and mint flavors.

How should I cut the brownies for clean edges?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut. Chilling the brownies before slicing can also help achieve cleaner edges.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Andes Mint Brownies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the brownies after adding the ganache?

Refrigerating the brownies helps the ganache set properly, making them easier to slice and serve. However, if you prefer a softer ganache, you can let them set at room temperature.

Can I use mint extract instead of Andes mints?

While Andes mints provide both flavor and texture, you can use mint extract to achieve the mint flavor. Add about 1/2 teaspoon of mint extract to the batter and consider adding chocolate chips or chunks for texture.

Conclusion

These Andes Mint Brownies offer a delectable combination of rich chocolate and refreshing mint, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With their fudgy texture and irresistible flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy baking and indulging in these delightful brownies!

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