Description
These Mint Brownie Cheesecake Cups combine rich, fudgy brownies with a smooth and creamy mint-flavored cheesecake topping. Perfectly portioned in individual cups, they offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, enhanced by the refreshing hint of mint and chocolate chips. Ideal for parties or a special dessert treat, they are easy to prepare and visually appealing with a pop of green color.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Layer
- 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients required on the box, usually oil, eggs, and water)
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp mint extract (or more to taste)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tbsp green food coloring (optional, for color)
Topping
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Layer: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Prepare the brownie mix as per the package instructions, which usually involves mixing the brownie mix with oil, eggs, and water.
- Fill the Muffin Liners: Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of brownie batter into each muffin liner, filling each about halfway. Optionally, sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top of the batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
- Bake the Brownies: Bake the brownie-filled muffin tin according to the package instructions, generally about 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and mint extract until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Combine Cheesecake Ingredients: Gently fold the whipped heavy cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined. If desired, add green food coloring to give the cheesecake layer a minty green color.
- Assemble the Cups: Once the brownies have completely cooled, spoon a generous amount of the mint cheesecake mixture over each brownie in the muffin liners. Use a spatula to create a smooth top layer.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the assembled brownie cheesecake cups for at least 2 hours to allow the cheesecake layer to firm up and set properly.
- Finish and Serve: Before serving, top each cup with mini chocolate chips and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure brownies are fully cooled before adding cheesecake layer to prevent melting or mixing.
- Adjust the amount of mint extract to suit your taste preference for mintiness.
- Green food coloring is optional but adds a festive and vibrant touch to the cheesecake layer.
- These cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free brownie mix.