Triple Layer Fudgy Mint Oreo Brownies are a chocolate lover’s dream with a twist of cool mint and crunchy Oreo cookies. These brownies stack up the fudgiest chocolate base, a creamy mint layer, and a generous topping loaded with chunks of Oreo for a perfect mix of textures and flavors.
I love making these brownies when I want to treat myself or impress friends because they look fancy but are surprisingly simple to pull together. The mint layer adds a refreshing balance to the rich chocolate, and the Oreo pieces bring that fun crunch that everyone loves. Plus, the smell of chocolate baking always makes the kitchen feel warm and cozy.
My favorite way to serve these brownies is slightly chilled, so the mint layer holds firm and that fudgy chocolate stays soft without getting too gooey. They make a great dessert for holidays or just a weekend treat, and I always find myself sneaking a piece or two before anyone else sees them!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter & Chocolate: Butter gives richness and moisture. Using semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate ensures deep chocolate flavor. If you prefer, you can swap for dark chocolate with 60-70% cacao for a bolder taste.
Peppermint Oreos: These bring minty flavor and texture. If you can’t find them, regular Oreos with a teaspoon of peppermint extract work well. You can also use chocolate sandwich cookies if Oreo is not available.
Cream Cheese: It’s key for the mint layer’s creaminess. For a lighter option, try mascarpone or Greek yogurt, but cream cheese keeps the best texture.
Mint Extract: Pure peppermint extract delivers that cool mint taste. Avoid mint oils or flavored syrups to not overpower the delicate balance.
How Do I Get the Perfect Fudgy Brownie Base Without Overbaking?
Fudgy brownies are all about moisture and timing. Here’s how I nail it every time:
- Melt butter and chocolate gently and stir well to make a smooth base.
- Don’t overmix when combining dry and wet ingredients; this keeps brownies tender.
- Bake just until edges set and a toothpick in the center comes out with moist crumbs, not dry.
- Remember brownies keep cooking a bit after you take them out, so err on slightly underbaking.
Also, letting brownies cool completely and chilling them helps the texture set beautifully, making them easier to cut and serve.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking pan – I recommend this size to get thick, fudgy layers and even baking.
- Parchment paper or foil – makes it easy to lift out the brownies for clean cuts.
- Mixing bowls and spatula – for blending ingredients smoothly and evenly.
- Microwave-safe bowl – for melting butter and chocolate quickly and without mess.
- Electric mixer or whisk – helpful to beat cream cheese and incorporate ingredients smoothly.
- Cooking thermometer (optional) – to ensure melted chocolate stays just right.
- Knife or cookie cutter – for neat, uniform slices of brownies.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap peppermint Oreos for chocolate or salted caramel Oreos for different flavor twists. They add variety while keeping texture fun.
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds into the brownie batter for crunch and extra flavor.
- Mix in chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks into the mint layer for added richness.
- Use different extracts like mint and vanilla combined, or try a splash of orange or caramel extract for a unique flavor profile.
Triple Layer Fudgy Mint Oreo Brownies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Brownie Base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 8 oz semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Mint Layer:
- 1 ½ cups peppermint Oreo cookies, divided (about 15-18 cookies)
- 1 ½ cups cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1-2 drops green food coloring (optional)
Topping:
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips, melted (for drizzling)
- Remaining whole or halved Oreo cookies for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare, 30-35 minutes to bake, and at least 2 hours to chill and set. Chilling is key for clean slices and the mint layer to firm up nicely.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving extra hanging over the edges for easy removal. Lightly grease to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Fudgy Brownie Base:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt butter and chopped chocolate in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until smooth. Let it cool slightly. In a large bowl, whisk together both sugars and eggs until well combined, then add vanilla extract.
Pour the melted chocolate mixture slowly into the egg mixture, whisking gently until smooth. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Fold everything together gently until just combined—do not overmix.
Pour this batter evenly into your prepared pan.
3. Prepare the Mint Layer:
In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar, peppermint extract, egg, and flour, and beat again until creamy and smooth.
If using, add green food coloring a drop at a time until you get a minty green color. Fold in about 1 cup of crushed peppermint Oreos for extra texture.
4. Assemble the Layers:
Spread the mint cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie batter. Then, scatter the remaining whole or halved Oreo cookies on top, pressing them lightly into the mint layer.
5. Bake:
Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the mint layer comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are fine).
When you take the pan out, immediately drizzle the melted chocolate chips on top. Use a knife or spatula to swirl the chocolate gently for a decorative finish.
6. Cool and Serve:
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack. Then chill them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set perfectly.
Lift the brownies out by the edges of the parchment paper or foil, cut into squares, and enjoy your fudgy, minty, Oreo-packed treat!
Can I Use Regular Oreos Instead of Peppermint Oreos?
Yes! Regular Oreos work well if peppermint Oreos are hard to find. Just add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the cream cheese layer to keep that minty flavor.
How Should I Store These Brownies?
Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They taste best when chilled, and the mint layer stays firm. You can also freeze cut brownies for up to 2 months.
Can I Make These Brownies Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! These brownies are perfect for making a day or two ahead. Just keep them covered in the fridge and bring them to room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving for the best texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese in the Mint Layer?
You can substitute mascarpone or Greek yogurt for cream cheese, but expect a slightly different texture and tanginess. Cream cheese is best for that rich and creamy mint layer.