Chocolate mint desserts are perfect for summer enjoyment. Recipes include revitalizing chocolate mint ice cream, rich no-bake mint chocolate cheesecake, and soft mint chocolate chip cookies. For a delightful treat, chocolate mint brownies are a must-try. Minty chocolate bark adds a creative touch, while airy mint chocolate mousse offers a light option. Frozen mint chocolate pops cool down the day, complemented by a classic chocolate mint milkshake. There are even enjoyable mint chocolate cupcakes to examine. Discover exciting variations and tips for these treats.
Chocolate Mint Ice Cream
Chocolate Mint Ice Cream is a revitalizing and indulgent frozen treat that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the cool essence of mint, making it a perfect summer dessert. This delightful ice cream is ideal for chocoholics and mint enthusiasts alike, and it can be enjoyed as a standalone dessert or as an accompaniment to pies and cakes.
With a preparation time of approximately 30 minutes (plus freezing time), it’s easy to whip up this creamy delight for family gatherings, barbecues, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Green food coloring (optional)
Cooking Steps
- In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, cocoa powder, and salt. Whisk thoroughly until all ingredients are well mixed and the sugar is dissolved.
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler until smooth. Allow to cool slightly, then stir into the cream mixture until fully incorporated.
- If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring to achieve a minty hue and mix until the color is even.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes.
- Once the ice cream has reached a soft-serve consistency, transfer it to a lidded container and freeze for an additional 4-6 hours, or until firm.
- Serve the chocolate mint ice cream in bowls or cones, optionally garnished with chocolate shavings or fresh mint leaves for an extra touch.
Variations & Tips
- For a chunkier version, add crushed mint chocolate cookies or chunks of fudge during the last few minutes of churning.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a container and freeze it, stirring every 30 minutes for the first 2-3 hours to maintain a creamy texture.
- Experiment with different types of chocolate, like dark or white chocolate, to create unique flavor profiles.
- Make it a sundae by topping your ice cream with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, or crushed candy canes for an added crunch.
No-Bake Mint Chocolate Cheesecake
This No-Bake Mint Chocolate Cheesecake is a delightful and revitalizing dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the coolness of mint, making it perfect for warm summer days. Ideal for chocolate lovers and those looking for a crowd-pleasing treat, this cheesecake requires minimal effort and no oven time. With a preparation time of just 20 minutes and an additional chilling time of 4 hours, it’s perfect for spontaneous gatherings or family celebrations.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
- Green food coloring (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
- Chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter. Mix until well combined, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form a crust. Place in the refrigerator to set while preparing the filling.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the peppermint extract and mix until combined.
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Stir in the melted semi-sweet chocolate chips until fully incorporated. If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring to achieve a minty hue.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
- Once set, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and chocolate shavings, if desired, before serving.
Variations and Tips:
- For an extra minty flavor, you can mix in 1-2 tablespoons of crushed mint candies into the filling.
- Experiment by swapping the chocolate cookie crust for a graham cracker or Oreo crust to personalize the flavor profile.
- If you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
- Confirm your heavy cream is well-chilled before whipping for the best results.
- This cheesecake can be made a day in advance—just keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delicious treat that blends the invigorating flavor of mint with the rich, smooth taste of chocolate. Perfect for summer gatherings, family picnics, or just a sweet afternoon snack, these cookies are loved by people of all ages.
The preparation time is about 15 minutes, followed by a baking time of 10-12 minutes, making them quick and easy to whip up when you’re craving something sweet.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup mint chocolate chips (or crushed mint candies)
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the peppermint extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and mint chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Drop tablespoon-sized balls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ball.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; this is fine as they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations and Tips:
- For an extra minty flavor, try adding a few drops of green food coloring for a fun twist.
- You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- If you prefer a softer cookie, slightly reduce the baking time by 1-2 minutes.
- Experiment with adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.
Enjoy your Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies as a perfect summer delight!
Chocolate Mint Brownies
Chocolate Mint Brownies are a deliciously decadent dessert that combines rich chocolate with invigorating mint, creating a delightful treat perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in.
This recipe can easily satisfy chocolate lovers and mint enthusiasts alike, making it an ideal option for family, friends, and party guests. With a preparation time of about 15 minutes and an additional 30 minutes for baking, you’ll have these scrumptious brownies ready to share in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup mint chocolate chips or crushed mint candies
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (for frosting)
- Green food coloring (optional, for frosting)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and mix in the granulated sugar.
- Stir in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the mint chocolate chips (and peppermint extract if using) until evenly distributed in the batter.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and a few drops of green food coloring (if desired) until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled brownies and let it set before cutting them into squares.
Variations and Tips:
- For an extra touch of flavor, add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the brownie batter.
- You can substitute the mint chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a different taste.
- These brownies can be enhanced with a layer of chocolate ganache on top for an even more indulgent treat.
- Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- Feel free to garnish your brownies with crushed mint candies or a sprinkle of crushed peppermint for a festive touch.
Minty Chocolate Bark
Minty Chocolate Bark is a delightful and easy-to-make treat that combines rich chocolate with invigorating mint flavor. This no-bake dessert is perfect for chocolate lovers of all ages, making it an excellent addition to summer gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply as a sweet snack at home.
With a preparation time of just 15 minutes, plus chilling time, this treat is both quick and delicious!
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces of dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup of white chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup of crushed mint candies (like Andes or peppermint candies)
- A pinch of sea salt (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Begin by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal of the chocolate bark later.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each session until completely smooth.
- Once melted, stir in half of the crushed mint candies and the peppermint extract into the dark chocolate.
- Pour the melted dark chocolate mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Next, melt the white chocolate chips in a separate microwave-safe bowl using the same method as before.
- Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the dark chocolate layer in a marbled or stripe pattern. Use a toothpick or knife to swirl the two chocolates together for a decorative effect.
- Sprinkle the remaining crushed mint candies over the top and finish with a light sprinkle of sea salt if desired.
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate is fully hardened.
- Once set, break the bark into pieces and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- For a different flavor experience, try adding a pinch of sea salt to the chocolate mixture for a sweet-savory contrast.
- Mix in other ingredients such as chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even some chili flakes for a unique twist.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.
- Consider using flavored chocolate chips (like dark mint or mint-flavored white chocolate) to enhance the minty taste.
Enjoy your homemade Minty Chocolate Bark as an invigorating treat super easy to share!
Peppermint Patty Dessert Cups
Peppermint Patty Dessert Cups are a delightful and invigorating treat perfect for chocolate and mint lovers. These individual cups are ideal for summer gatherings, parties, or just a sweet pick-me-up on a warm day.
With a preparation time of about 30 minutes and a chilling time of 1 hour, they are not only quick to make but are sure to impress your guests with their delightful combination of flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup crushed chocolate wafer cookies
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- ¼ cup chocolate syrup (for drizzling)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
Cooking Steps:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until it forms stiff peaks. Set aside.
- In another bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
- In serving cups or dessert glasses, layer the crushed chocolate wafer cookies at the bottom.
- Spoon a generous layer of the cream cheese mint mixture over the cookies.
- Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top of the mint cream layer.
- Repeat the layers until you reach the rim of the cups, finishing with the mint cream.
- Drizzle with chocolate syrup on top and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
- Cover the cups and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Variations and Tips:
- For an extra touch of decadence, you can add a layer of crushed peppermint candies between the layers.
- If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt.
- To make these dessert cups more festive, add food coloring to the cream cheese mixture for a fun twist.
- Experiment with different types of chocolate cookies or add a layer of crushed Oreos for a chocolatey crunch.
- These cups can be made a day in advance for convenience; just be sure to keep them refrigerated until serving.
Chocolate Mint Smoothie Bowl
The Chocolate Mint Smoothie Bowl is a decadent yet invigorating dessert that perfectly captures the essence of summer with its rich chocolate flavor and revitalizing minty notes.
This dish is ideal for chocolate lovers and those looking for a cool treat during warm days. It can be enjoyed as a healthy breakfast option or a delightful dessert. The preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, making it an easy and quick recipe to whip up whenever a craving strikes!
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, frozen
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (adjust for sweetness)
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
- Toppings (optional): sliced bananas, granola, dark chocolate shavings, cacao nibs, chopped nuts
Cooking Steps:
- In a blender, combine the frozen bananas, almond milk, cocoa powder, peppermint extract, maple syrup/honey, and salt.
- Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more almond milk until the desired consistency is reached.
- Pour the smoothie mixture into a bowl and smooth it out with a spatula.
- Add your desired toppings, such as sliced bananas, granola, dark chocolate shavings, cacao nibs, or chopped nuts.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a bright burst of flavor.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Variations and Tips:
- For a protein boost, consider adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder.
- If you want an extra creamy texture, substitute ½ of the almond milk with coconut yogurt.
- Experiment with different toppings, such as berries, chia seeds, or shredded coconut, to customize your smoothie bowl.
- To make this dessert even more indulgent, drizzle with a bit of chocolate syrup or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, freeze the smoothie mixture for 20-30 minutes before serving.
Mint Chocolate Mousse
Mint chocolate mousse is a revitalizing and indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the cool, invigorating taste of mint. This elegant dish is ideal for warm summer evenings, special occasions, or as a delightful end to a family meal.
With a preparation time of only 20 minutes (plus chilling time), it’s perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking to impress their guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups of heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 large egg whites
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- A pinch of salt
- Dark chocolate shavings (for garnish)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
Cooking Steps:
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with powdered sugar and peppermint extract until soft peaks form.
- Beat the Egg Whites: In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites and a pinch of salt using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Combine the Mixtures: Gently fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream until fully incorporated. Then, fold in the beaten egg whites in two batches, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
- Chill: Divide the mousse into serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
- Serve: Before serving, garnish with dark chocolate shavings and fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of elegance.
Variations and Tips:
- Flavored Variations: Try adding a few drops of vanilla extract or different flavored extracts like orange or almond for a unique twist.
- Chocolate Choices: Use dark chocolate or white chocolate for different flavor profiles.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the mousse in elegant glasses or dessert cups for a fancy presentation. It pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
- Make Ahead: This mint chocolate mousse can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it a great option for entertaining guests.
- For a Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the texture may be slightly different.
Frozen Mint Chocolate Pops
Frozen Mint Chocolate Pops are a delightful, invigorating treat perfect for hot summer days. The combination of rich chocolate and cool mint is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making them an ideal dessert for family gatherings, picnics, or simply to enjoy at home.
The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, plus freezing time of about 4 hours to guarantee the pops are perfectly solid.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: mini chocolate chips or dark chocolate shavings for topping
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, unsweetened cocoa powder, honey (or maple syrup), finely chopped mint leaves, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Taste the mixture and adjust sweetness by adding more honey/maple syrup if desired.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving a little space at the top to allow for expansion as they freeze. If desired, sprinkle mini chocolate chips or dark chocolate shavings on top before placing the sticks in.
- Insert the popsicle sticks and place the molds in the freezer. Freeze for at least 4 hours or until solid.
- To remove the pops from the molds, run them under warm water for a few seconds, then gently pull them out.
Variations and Tips:
- For a creamier texture, you can replace Greek yogurt with full-fat coconut milk or a combination of yogurt and cream.
- Experiment with different flavors by adding ingredients like vanilla bean paste for a richer vanilla flavor, or using other herbs like basil for a unique twist.
- Guarantee your popsicle molds are well-greased or use silicone molds to aid with easy removal.
- Try adding fruit purees, such as raspberry or strawberry, to the mixture for a fruity mint chocolate pop!
Chocolate Mint Milkshake
A Chocolate Mint Milkshake is the perfect indulgent treat for hot summer days, combining the rich flavors of chocolate with invigorating mint. This delightful beverage is ideal for chocolate lovers and mint enthusiasts alike, making it a favorite for kids and adults.
With a quick preparation time of just about 10 minutes, this milkshake is a simple yet satisfying way to cool down and enjoy a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (adjust to taste)
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Crushed mint candies or chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, milk, chocolate syrup, and peppermint extract. Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
- Taste the milkshake and adjust the peppermint extract if you prefer a stronger mint flavor.
- Pour the milkshake into tall glasses and top with a generous amount of whipped cream.
- Garnish with crushed mint candies or chocolate shavings, if desired.
- Serve immediately with a straw or a long spoon.
Variations and Tips:
- For a richer chocolate flavor, try adding a scoop of chocolate ice cream instead of vanilla.
- Experiment with adding fresh mint leaves while blending for an even fresher mint taste.
- If you prefer a thicker milkshake, reduce the amount of milk; for a thinner consistency, add more milk.
- To make this dessert even more decadent, consider drizzling extra chocolate syrup inside the glasses before pouring in the milkshake.
- For a fun twist, use mint-flavored ice cream instead of vanilla, and leave out the peppermint extract.
Mint Chocolate Cupcakes
Mint Chocolate Cupcakes are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the rich flavors of chocolate with a revitalizing hint of mint. These moist and indulgent cupcakes are ideal for summer gatherings, birthday celebrations, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delicious dessert.
With a preparation time of approximately 30 minutes and a baking time of 20 minutes, you’ll have these delightful cupcakes ready in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup mint chocolate chips
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Green food coloring (optional)
Cooking Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined.
- Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed until well combined.
- Carefully stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin) until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the mint chocolate chips.
- Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with the batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cupcakes cool, prepare the frosting by beating the softened butter in a bowl until creamy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, then add the heavy cream, peppermint extract, and green food coloring, if using. Beat until light and fluffy.
- Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the mint buttercream frosting. You can decorate with additional mint chocolate chips on top for an extra touch.
Variations and Tips
- For a chocolate mint ganache topping, melt 1 cup of chocolate chips with ½ cup of heavy cream, and pour over the frosted cupcakes once cooled.
- Add crushed peppermint candies or Andes mints to the frosting for added texture and flavor.
- Substitute the mint chocolate chips with regular chocolate chips if mint isn’t your preference.
- For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or refrigerate for up to a week.
Enjoy your Mint Chocolate Cupcakes, and watch them disappear at your next summer gathering!