Description
These Mint Brownie Cheesecake Cups combine rich, fudgy brownies with a smooth, minty cheesecake topping for a delightful individual dessert. Perfectly portioned and easy to make, they offer the perfect balance of chocolate and refreshing mint flavors, finished with a creamy topping and optional garnishes for a festive touch.
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 following the package instructions, typically involving mixing oil, eggs, and water. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the brownie batter into each liner, filling them halfway. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top if using. Bake for 15-18 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow the brownies to cool completely before proceeding.
- 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. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated. If desired, add green food coloring to achieve a minty green hue.
- Assemble the Cups: Once the brownie bases are completely cooled, spoon a generous layer of the cheesecake mixture on top of each brownie cup. Use a spatula to smooth out the tops evenly. Refrigerate the assembled cups for at least 2 hours to allow the cheesecake layer to set properly.
- Top and Serve: After chilling, garnish each cheesecake cup with a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips and fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve chilled for a refreshing, minty dessert option.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of mint extract to suit your taste preference, adding more for a stronger mint flavor.
- Using green food coloring is optional but adds a festive look to the cheesecake layer.
- Ensure brownies are fully cooled before adding the cheesecake mixture to prevent melting or mixing layers.
- Store leftover cheesecake cups refrigerated and consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.
- For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free brownie mix.
