Name: Grasshopper Brownie Bars
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon dark unsweetened cocoa powder; 5 ounces good quality dark chocolate ((60 to 72%), coarsely chopped); 1/2 cup butter ((cut into cubes)); 3/4 cup sugar; 1/4 cup light brown sugar ((firmly packed)); 3 large eggs ((at room temperature)); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3/4 cup whole milk; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 3 tablespoons creme de menthe; 1 teaspoon peppermint extract; 1 teaspoon light corn syrup

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If you’re searching for a dessert that combines the deep, rich flavor of chocolate with a refreshing minty kick, look no further than these luscious Grasshopper Brownie Bars. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are a delightful twist on the classic brownie, infused with a vibrant mint flavor and topped with a creamy dark chocolate ganache. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a birthday celebration, or simply a sweet treat for yourself, these bars will surely impress.

Why It Works Every Time

The secret to the success of Grasshopper Brownie Bars lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The fudgy brownie base is rich and decadent, made with high-quality dark chocolate and just the right amount of sugar to enhance the chocolate’s natural sweetness. The mint layer adds a refreshing contrast, brightening up the dessert without overpowering the chocolate. Topped with a shiny chocolate ganache, these bars create an irresistible combination of creamy, minty, and chocolaty goodness that will leave you craving more.

Your Shopping Guide

Before diving into this delicious recipe, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s your shopping list:

Flour: 3/4 cups all-purpose flour for structure.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon enhances flavor.
Cocoa Powder: 1 tablespoon dark unsweetened cocoa powder for richness.
Dark Chocolate: 5 ounces good quality dark chocolate (60 to 72%), coarsely chopped.
Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick) for the brownie base and 1/2 cup (1 stick) for the ganache, both cut into cubes.
Sugars: 3/4 cup sugar and 1/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar for sweetness.
Eggs: 3 large eggs, at room temperature for binding.
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon for flavor.
Milk: 3/4 cup whole milk for the filling.
Heavy Cream: 2 tablespoons for richness in the ganache.
Creme de Menthe: 3 tablespoons for that signature mint flavor.
Peppermint Extract: 1 teaspoon to enhance the minty taste.
Corn Syrup: 1 teaspoon light corn syrup for a smooth ganache.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before you begin baking, gather the following tools:

Mixing Bowls: For combining your ingredients.
Whisk: To mix the wet ingredients smoothly.
Spatula: For folding ingredients and spreading the batter.
9×13-inch Baking Pan: For baking the brownies.
Parchment Paper: To line the baking pan for easy removal.
Double Boiler or Microwave-Safe Bowl: For melting chocolate.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy in baking.

Mastering Grasshopper Brownie Bars: How-To

Creating these Grasshopper Brownie Bars is a straightforward process, and the results are absolutely worth it. Follow these steps to master this delectable recipe:

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. This step ensures that your brownies come out perfectly without sticking.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

In a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl, combine the 5 ounces of coarsely chopped dark chocolate and 1/2 cup of butter. Heat gently, stirring frequently until both are completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted chocolate mixture with 3/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup light brown sugar. Whisk until smooth. Add the 3 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of dark cocoa powder until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks are okay.

Step 5: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool in the pan.

Step 6: Prepare the Mint Layer

In a clean mixing bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of flour, 3/4 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, and 3 tablespoons of creme de menthe until smooth. Once the brownies are completely cool, pour this mint mixture over the cooled brownie layer.

Step 7: Bake Again

Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the mint layer is set. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature.

Step 8: Make the Ganache

In a double boiler, melt 6 ounces of coarsely chopped dark chocolate with 1/2 cup of softened butter and 1 teaspoon of light corn syrup. Stir until smooth and glossy.

Step 9: Top the Bars

Pour the ganache over the cooled mint layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Allow the ganache to set at room temperature, or refrigerate for 30 minutes for quicker setting.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Once the ganache is set, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares or bars, and serve. Enjoy your homemade Grasshopper Brownie Bars!

International Equivalents

When preparing this recipe, you may need to consider international equivalents for some ingredients:

Flour: 1 cup all-purpose flour = 120 grams.
Butter: 1 stick = 113 grams.
Sugar: 1 cup granulated sugar = 200 grams.
Cocoa Powder: 1 tablespoon = 7.5 grams.

Errors to Dodge

When baking Grasshopper Brownie Bars, avoid these common pitfalls:

Overmixing the brownie batter can lead to a tougher texture.
Not letting the brownies cool completely before adding the mint layer can cause it to melt.
Using chocolate that isn’t high quality can result in a less flavorful dessert.
Forgetting to line the pan can make removing the brownies a challenge.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your Grasshopper Brownie Bars fresh and delicious:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
These bars can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.

Reader Q&A

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

While you can substitute milk chocolate, it will change the flavor profile. Dark chocolate provides a richer taste that balances well with the mint layer.

What can I use instead of creme de menthe?

If you don’t have creme de menthe, you can use peppermint extract along with a bit of green food coloring for color, or make a mint syrup using fresh mint leaves.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Make sure to check that your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free.

How do I know when the mint layer is set?

The mint layer will be set when it has a firm texture and doesn’t jiggle when you move the pan. It should also look slightly glossy.

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Bring It Home

These Grasshopper Brownie Bars are not just a dessert; they’re a celebration of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. With their rich chocolate base, refreshing mint layer, and glossy ganache, they are perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful treat. You’ll find that once you make these bars, they’ll quickly become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy every bite!