If you’re a fan of rich, chocolaty desserts with a refreshing twist, look no further than these Andes Creme de Menthe Mint Brownies. Combining the classic flavor of mint with the fudgy goodness of brownies, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. The addition of crushed creme de menthe candies gives these brownies a delightful minty crunch, making them perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this minty chocolate bliss!
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets these Andes Creme de Menthe Mint Brownies apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The brownie mix provides a dense, fudgy base that pairs beautifully with the sweet and minty crunch of crushed creme de menthe candies. As the brownies bake, the mint flavor infuses into the chocolate, creating a rich, decadent treat that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. If you love chocolate and mint together, you’ll definitely want to keep this recipe on hand.
Shopping List
- 1 (18.3-ounce) box brownie mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 4 ounces crushed creme de menthe candies
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Equipment at a Glance
- Mixing bowl – for combining the brownie ingredients.
- Whisk – for mixing the eggs, oil, and water.
- Baking pan (9×13 inch) – for baking the brownies.
- Parchment paper – for easy removal of brownies from the pan.
- Spatula – for folding in the crushed candies.
Andes Creme de Menthe Mint Brownies Made Stepwise
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies will bake evenly and come out perfectly fudgy.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. This will help prevent sticking and make cutting the brownies a breeze.
Step 3: Mix the Brownie Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Use a whisk to mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher brownies.
Step 4: Fold in the Mint Candies
Gently fold in the crushed creme de menthe candies into the brownie batter using a spatula. This will distribute the mint flavor throughout the brownies.
Step 5: Pour Into the Pan
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with the spatula. Make sure the candies are evenly distributed in the batter.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as you want the brownies to remain fudgy.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper and place them on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can dust them with powdered sugar if desired, then cut them into squares and serve.
Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps
- Replace the eggs with 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
- Use a vegetable-based oil, such as coconut oil or canola oil, for a vegan-friendly option.
- Make sure the brownie mix is free from animal-derived ingredients (most store-bought mixes are already vegan, but double-check the label).
Avoid These Mistakes
- Overmixing the batter can lead to tough brownies. Mix until just combined.
- Using an incorrect oven temperature can affect the baking time. Always preheat your oven.
- Not lining the baking pan can result in brownies sticking. Use parchment paper for easy lifting.
- Overbaking the brownies will make them dry. Check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time.
Storing Tips & Timelines
To store your Andes Creme de Menthe Mint Brownies, allow them to cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. If freezing, wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Common Questions
Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite homemade brownie recipe as long as it yields a similar consistency to a boxed mix. Just remember to fold in the crushed creme de menthe candies for that signature minty flavor.
What can I do if I don’t have creme de menthe candies?
If you can’t find creme de menthe candies, you could use mint chocolate chips or even crushed peppermint candies as an alternative. They’ll provide a similar minty taste and crunchy texture.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes! These brownies can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
The best way to test for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If it comes out clean, they may be overbaked.
Save & Share
If you enjoyed making these Andes Creme de Menthe Mint Brownies, don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family! Post a picture on social media and tag us, or send the recipe to someone who loves minty chocolate treats as much as you do. Happy baking!
Andes Creme de Menthe Mint Brownies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the crushed creme de menthe candies into the brownie batter.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For vegan options, replace eggs with applesauce or a flax egg.
- Make sure to check the brownie mix for vegan-friendly ingredients.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
