Chef John's Chocolate Mint Brownies

This stripped-down recipe for brownies requires almost zero technique, and uses only cocoa powder to achieve a dense, chewy, very chocolaty treat. Top with mint icing for a unique spin on an old favorite.

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 35 mins
• Total Time: 45 mins
• Calories: 174 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons milk
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 ⅛ cups sugar
• ¼ teaspoon mint extract, or to taste

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).

Step 2

Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.

Step 3

Combine sugar and cocoa powder in a large bowl; stir in melted butter until mixture is smooth.

Step 4

Stir in 1 egg, vanilla, and salt. Mix in second egg.

Step 5

Fold in flour and transfer to ungreased 8x8-inch square baking dish.

Step 6

Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes.

Step 7

Remove from oven and cool in the baking dish for 10 minutes before removing to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 8

Mix powdered sugar, milk, and mint extract in a bowl until smooth.

Step 9

Pour icing over cooled brownies. Spread evenly and allow to set, about 30 minutes.

Step 10

Slice into 16 brownies.