Mint Brownie Cookies

If you’re a fan of desserts that combine rich chocolate with refreshing mint, then these Mint Brownie Cookies are about to become your new favorite treat! Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that offers the fudgy goodness of brownies, complemented by a delightful minty flavor. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in, a party treat, or just a sweet indulgence. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

These Mint Brownie Cookies are a dream come true for chocolate lovers. They are incredibly easy to make, using simple ingredients that come together in a snap. The combination of brownie mix and pudding mix ensures each cookie is loaded with chocolatey moisture, while the mint fudge chips add that refreshing twist. Plus, the cream cheese frosting on top takes them to a whole new level of decadence. Once you try these cookies, you’ll be reaching for the recipe time and time again!

Ingredient Notes

• Cream Cheese: Use full-fat, brick-style cream cheese for the best texture and flavor. It should be softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• Unsalted Butter: Softened unsalted butter is key for that rich, buttery flavor without added salt.
• Egg: Just one large egg is needed to bind the cookie dough together.
• Instant Chocolate Fudge Pudding Mix: This adds moisture and a rich chocolate flavor; do not prepare it, just use the dry mix.
• Brownie Mix: I recommend Betty Crocker Delights Supreme Chocolate Chunk for its rich chocolate chunks and ease of use.
• Mint Fudge Baking Chips: You can use either mint fudge baking chips or Andes Creme De Menthe baking chips for that delicious minty flavor.
• Milk Chocolate Chips: These add sweetness and richness to the cookies.
• Peppermint Extract: A little goes a long way to enhance the mint flavor.
• Green Food Coloring: Optional, but a few drops can give your frosting a fun, festive look.
• Powdered Sugar: This is essential for making the sweet cream cheese frosting.
• Heavy Cream: This helps to achieve a smooth and creamy frosting.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need both a large bowl for the cookie dough and a medium bowl for the frosting.
• Electric Mixer: A hand or stand mixer will make mixing the dough and frosting much easier.
• Baking Sheet: Line it with parchment paper for easy release and clean-up.
• Cookie Scoop: A medium cookie scoop will help you portion the dough evenly.
• Spatula: For transferring cookies and mixing ingredients.

The Method for Mint Brownie Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Use an electric mixer to cream them together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a soft texture in your cookies.

Step 2: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Add the large egg and the vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Blend until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Next, add the instant chocolate fudge pudding mix and the brownie mix to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 4: Stir in the Chips

Gently fold in the mint fudge baking chips and milk chocolate chips with a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to scoop.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Once chilled, use a cookie scoop to drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still soft.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

While the cookies cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. If you want to add color, mix in a few drops of green food coloring. Finally, stir in the peppermint extract and heavy cream until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 8: Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies have cooled completely, use a spatula or piping bag to frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting. Top each cookie with additional mint fudge baking chips or chocolate chips for a decorative touch.

Make It Diet-Friendly

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the brownie mix with a gluten-free brownie mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternative, and swap the chocolate chips for dairy-free options.
• Reduced Sugar: You can use a sugar substitute in the frosting and consider using less chocolate chips in the cookies.
• Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan alternatives for cream cheese, butter, and chocolate chips.

Little Things that Matter

• Chilling the dough is essential for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
• Use high-quality chocolate and mint chips for the best flavor in your cookies.
• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of peppermint extract according to your taste preference for minty intensity.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Once your Mint Brownie Cookies are frosted, allow them to set for about 30 minutes before storing. To keep them fresh, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also refrigerate them for a longer shelf life. If you prefer warm cookies, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy that fresh-baked warmth.

Reader Q&A

Can I freeze these Mint Brownie Cookies?

Yes! You can freeze the cookies either before or after frosting. Place them in an airtight container or a zip-top bag, and they will keep well for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

What can I use instead of mint fudge baking chips?

If you can’t find mint fudge baking chips, Andes Creme De Menthe baking chips are a great alternative. You can also chop up mint chocolate bars if you want a homemade option.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The edges of the cookies should be set, and the centers will look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

Can I add nuts to the cookie dough?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, would make a delicious addition to the cookie dough. Just fold them in along with the chocolate chips.

In Closing

These Mint Brownie Cookies are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. With their rich chocolate flavor and refreshing mint, they make for a delightful dessert that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself! With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch of these cookies in no time. So gather your supplies, preheat that oven, and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of freshly baked Mint Brownie Cookies!