Mint Chocolate Brownies

These are a family favorite. My son even requested these this year instead of a birthday cake.  I prefer them at room temperature, but they're nice chilled or warmed a bit.  Just make sure to let them set before cutting them the first time.  With that nice minty green layer, they're a perfect St. Patrick's Day treat, too!

Gluten Free Mint Chocolate Brownies - They're rich, so I tend to cut these tasty treats into small squares.  Delicious!

Mint Chocolate Brownies
Makes 8x8 tray of brownies (~16)

Preheat oven to 350F. Line 8x8 pan with parchment paper, then butter parchment paper and sprinkle with cocoa powder.  (I find if I don't then I end up needing to use a fork or spoon to scrap the bottom off, even after buttering the pan.)

In a large microwave-safe glass bowl, melt:
1/2 cup butter

Mix in until smooth:
1/4 cup cocoa powder

Add and mix in:
2 eggs
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar

Then add and mix in, just until combined:
1/4 cup + 2 Tbsp Kristin's Gluten-Free Flour Mix
1/4 tsp baking powder

Pour into prepared 8x8 pan and bake at 350F for 22-25 minutes.

Before and after baking

Let brownies cool completely.  Then top with the following:
1. Mint layer
Mix together and spread on top of brownies:
1 cup powdered sugar
2 Tbsp butter, melted
1 Tbsp milk
1-2 drops peppermint essential oil* (Add one drop at a time, then mix) (or use peppermint extract)
1-2 drops green food coloring

Taste the mint layer to make sure it's minty enough. 

Mint layer spreads easily over the brownies.

2. Chocolate Layer:
Melt together in a small microwave-safe bowl:
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate
2 Tbsp butter

Coated with chocolate

Spread thinly on top of brownies.  Let set in the refrigerator at least 15-30 minutes (to allow the chocolate layer to set).  Remove from refrigerator. Slice and serve!   I find these are best at room temperature, but I typically store them in the refrigerator and remove 20-30 minutes before serving.

Mint brownies, ready to eat!  They can easily be lifted out of the pan using the parchment paper, to make for easier cutting.

* I love using the DoTerra Peppermint Essential Oil in my cooking.  You can find it at my friend Christine's online store:  mydoterra.com/cstolworthy