Thin Mint Brownies Recipe

A Sweet Twist on a Classic: Thin Mint Brownies

There’s a certain joy that comes with the arrival of Girl Scout cookie season. For many, it’s the delightful anticipation of those iconic green boxes filled with Thin Mint cookies. But what if I told you that there’s an exciting new way to enjoy these beloved cookies? Enter Thin Mint Brownies – a delectable fusion of rich, fudgy brownies and the refreshing taste of Thin Mints. This easy recipe uses a boxed brownie mix to create a dessert that is not only mouth-watering but also incredibly simple to make. Let’s dive into the details and explore how you can whip up this irresistible treat in just a few minutes.

Ingredients and Preparation

The beauty of Thin Mint Brownies lies in their simplicity. You will need:

• 1 box of your favorite boxed brownie mix
• ⅓ cup oil
• ⅓ cup water
• 1 egg
• 1 sleeve of Thin Mint or other chocolate mint cookies (about 20 cookies)

Before you start mixing ingredients, preheat your oven to 325˚F. Grease and line a 9-inch square cake pan with parchment paper. This preparation ensures that your brownies will come out easily and maintain their shape.

The Cookie Crunch

The secret to these brownies is, of course, the Thin Mint cookies. Using a food processor, pulse the cookies until they resemble fine sand. If you don’t have a food processor, you can achieve the same result by placing the cookies in a large freezer bag and crushing them with a rolling pin or a sturdy glass. The key is to get the cookies finely crushed so that they blend seamlessly into the brownie batter.

Mixing It All Together

In a large bowl, combine the brownie mix, water, oil, egg, and the crushed Thin Mint cookies. Stir until just combined. It’s important not to overmix the batter, as this can make the brownies tough. Once your batter is ready, pour it into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Baking to Perfection

Bake the brownies for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven and the specific brownie mix you’re using, so it’s always a good idea to start checking for doneness a few minutes before the minimum baking time.

A Few Helpful Notes

While most brownie mixes are quite similar, it’s crucial to follow the instructions on the back of your particular mix to ensure you use the correct ratios of oil, eggs, and water. For this recipe, we’re using Ghirardelli double chocolate brownie mix, which is a favorite for its rich, chocolatey flavor.

Once your brownies are baked to perfection, let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period is essential for the brownies to set and makes them easier to cut into neat squares.

Storing Your Masterpiece

To keep your Thin Mint Brownies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for 3-4 days, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert for parties, potlucks, or just to have on hand for a sweet treat throughout the week.

The Magic of Thin Mint Brownies

So, what makes Thin Mint Brownies so special? It’s all about the combination of flavors and textures. The classic, rich taste of chocolate brownies is elevated by the cool, refreshing burst of mint from the cookies. Each bite is a perfect harmony of fudgy brownie and crunchy, minty goodness.

Variations and Tips

While the basic recipe is already a winner, there are plenty of ways to customize your Thin Mint Brownies to suit your tastes:

1. Extra Chocolate: If you’re a true chocolate lover, consider adding a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for an extra dose of chocolaty decadence.
2. Mint Frosting: For an even more pronounced mint flavor, top your brownies with a layer of mint-flavored frosting. Simply mix together powdered sugar, a bit of butter, a splash of milk, and a few drops of peppermint extract until smooth and spreadable.
3. Crushed Cookie Topping: Reserve a few of the crushed Thin Mint cookies to sprinkle on top of the brownies before baking. This adds an extra crunch and makes for a visually appealing dessert.
4. Ice Cream Sandwiches: For a fun twist, use the brownies to make ice cream sandwiches. Cut the brownies into squares and sandwich a scoop of mint chocolate chip ice cream between two brownie pieces.

A Crowd-Pleaser for All Occasions

Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a school bake sale, or simply to satisfy your own sweet tooth, Thin Mint Brownies are sure to be a hit. Their unique flavor profile and ease of preparation make them a go-to recipe for any occasion.

The Perfect Companion: Beverage Pairings

Thin Mint Brownies, with their rich chocolate and refreshing mint flavors, pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Here are a few suggestions to enhance your dessert experience:

1. Hot Chocolate: Double down on the chocolatey goodness by pairing these brownies with a warm cup of hot chocolate. For an extra minty twist, add a drop of peppermint extract to your hot chocolate.
2. Coffee: The bitterness of a strong cup of coffee contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the brownies, making for a sophisticated and satisfying combination.
3. Milk: You can’t go wrong with a classic. A cold glass of milk is the perfect way to enjoy these rich brownies, balancing their sweetness and providing a refreshing counterpart.
4. Peppermint Tea: To complement the minty notes in the brownies, try pairing them with a soothing cup of peppermint tea. The herbal quality of the tea enhances the mint flavor without overwhelming the chocolate.

Nutritional Information

While Thin Mint Brownies are undoubtedly a treat, it’s always good to be aware of what you’re indulging in. Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional content for one serving (based on the recipe yielding 12 servings):

• Calories: 200-250 (depending on the specific brownie mix and additional ingredients used)
• Fat: 10-12 grams
• Carbohydrates: 28-32 grams
• Sugar: 18-22 grams
• Protein: 2-3 grams

This dessert is rich and decadent, making it perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in moderation.

Fun Facts About Thin Mints and Brownies

• Girl Scout Cookies: Thin Mints are the top-selling Girl Scout cookie variety, accounting for approximately 25% of all Girl Scout cookie sales.
• Brownie History: The first known recipe for brownies was published in the 1897 Sears, Roebuck Catalogue. These early brownies were more like a chocolate cake.
• Thin Mint Variations: While Thin Mints are a classic, there are several regional variations made by different bakeries. Some are crispier, while others have a slightly different mint flavor.

Baking Tips for Success

Even though this recipe is straightforward, here are a few additional tips to ensure your Thin Mint Brownies turn out perfectly every time:

1. Even Mixing: Make sure to mix the batter just until all ingredients are combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cakey brownies instead of fudgy ones.
2. Proper Pan Size: Using a 9-inch square pan is essential for the right thickness. If you use a larger pan, the brownies will be thinner and may bake faster, while a smaller pan will make them thicker and require a longer baking time.
3. Parchment Paper: Lining the pan with parchment paper not only makes it easier to remove the brownies but also helps in cleaning up. Leave some overhang to lift the brownies out easily.
4. Cool Completely: Let the brownies cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly and makes it easier to get clean slices.

Sharing the Joy

One of the best things about baking is sharing your creations with others. Thin Mint Brownies are perfect for gifting. Here are a few ways to present them:

1. Gift Boxes: Place the brownies in a decorative box lined with parchment paper. Add a ribbon for a festive touch.
2. Individual Wrappings: Wrap each brownie in cellophane and tie with a colorful ribbon. This is ideal for party favors or bake sales.
3. Brownie Towers: Stack the brownies in a pyramid and wrap the entire stack in cellophane. This makes for an impressive centerpiece at a dessert table.

Conclusion: A Dessert to Remember

Thin Mint Brownies are more than just a way to use up extra Girl Scout cookies; they’re a delightful dessert that brings together the best of chocolate and mint in a way that’s both nostalgic and innovative. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because you’re craving something sweet, these brownies are sure to impress.

So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a batch of Thin Mint Brownies. With their easy preparation and delicious results, you’ll find yourself making this recipe again and again. Happy baking!