If you’re looking for a festive treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, the Grinch Brownies Recipe is your new holiday hero. These vibrant green brownies are loaded with chopped Mint Oreo cookies for that perfect crunch and minty surprise, all topped with a luscious white chocolate peppermint ganache that’s tinted the iconic Grinch green. Finished off with cute red hots candies that look like the Grinch’s mischievous heart, this dessert brings the holiday spirit straight to your kitchen in a way that’s irresistibly delicious and visually stunning.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Grinch Brownies Recipe plays a crucial role in blending traditional brownie goodness with festive flair. From the classic rich brownie base to the minty Oreo bits that add texture, and the bright green white chocolate ganache that truly makes these brownies pop, these simple essentials come together to create a showstopper.
- 1 9×13 box of brownie mix: The foundation of the recipe, providing a fudgy, chocolatey base that everyone loves.
- 26 Mint Oreo cookies (chopped): Adds delightful mint flavor and a satisfying crunch throughout the brownies.
- 2 cups white chocolate chips: Used to make a creamy ganache that melts perfectly over the brownies.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Gives the ganache its smooth, silky texture without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract: Enhances the minty flavor to brighten the dessert.
- 4 drops leaf green food coloring: Creates the signature Grinch green color that makes these brownies unique and festive.
- Red hots candies: For decorating—these little pops of red mimic the Grinch’s tiny but mighty heart.
How to Make Grinch Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Batter
Begin by following the package instructions on the brownie mix to prepare your batter. After mixing the ingredients, fold in your chopped Mint Oreo cookies gently. This step ensures each bite delivers pockets of minty crunch without overwhelming the fudgy texture. Then, pour the batter evenly into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, setting the stage for the perfect bake.
Step 2: Bake the Brownies
Pop your pan into a preheated oven at the temperature recommended on the brownie mix box (typically 350°F). Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. The brownies will be fudgy, rich, with those Oreo bits nestled inside, ready for their glam makeover.
Step 3: Prepare the Green Peppermint Ganache
While the brownies cool, prepare your white chocolate ganache. Warm the heavy cream until it’s just simmering, then pour it over the white chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until silky smooth. Stir in the peppermint extract and add your green food coloring drop by drop until you reach that perfect vibrant ‘Grinch’ shade. This ganache will be a festive, creamy top layer bursting with holiday flavor.
Step 4: Frost and Decorate
Once the brownies are fully cooled, spread the green peppermint ganache evenly over the surface. Finally, decorate with red hots candies spaced evenly like little hearts to give your brownies that iconic Grinch look. Let the ganache set for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or pop it in the fridge to speed things up before slicing.
How to Serve Grinch Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra festive touch, sprinkle some crushed Mint Oreos or edible silver glitter on top of the ganache just before serving. These sparkly accents turn the Grinch Brownies Recipe from delicious to downright dazzling, perfect for parties or holiday gift-giving.
Side Dishes
Serving these brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the minty richness brilliantly. A cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea alongside can make this a cozy treat on a chilly winter night.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your brownies into small bite-sized squares for a fun party platter, or use themed cookie cutters to shape the brownies into Grinch faces or Christmas symbols. Wrapping individual brownies in festive cellophane with a colorful ribbon makes them a delightful homemade gift guaranteed to spread holiday cheer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Grinch Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a warmer climate, it’s best to keep them in the refrigerator to prevent the ganache from melting or the brownies from getting too soft.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight to maintain the ganache’s smooth texture.
Reheating
To warm up stored brownies, microwave them for about 10 seconds to soften the ganache and warm the center slightly — but be careful not to overheat, or the ganache can separate. Alternatively, serve them cold for a fudgy, refreshing bite.
FAQs
Can I make these brownies from scratch instead of using a brownie mix?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade brownies, just prepare your favorite fudgy brownie recipe and fold in chopped Mint Oreos before baking. The key is maintaining a rich, moist base so the green peppermint ganache shines on top.
What if I don’t have Mint Oreos? Can I substitute other cookies?
You can try substituting with regular Oreos plus some peppermint extract in the batter, but the minty crunch from Mint Oreos is pretty special here. Alternatively, crushed Andes mints or peppermint candies can add that festive flavor.
Is it possible to make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free brownie mix and gluten-free Oreos. Most peppermint extract and food coloring are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check labels to be safe.
Can I use milk chocolate or dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for the ganache?
For this Grinch Brownies Recipe, white chocolate ganache is preferred because it takes the green food coloring beautifully and pairs well with peppermint. Milk or dark chocolate would change the flavor profile and color drastically.
How long do these brownies stay fresh?
When stored properly, these brownies stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days at room temperature or around a week refrigerated. They’re usually too tempting to last that long though!
Final Thoughts
This Grinch Brownies Recipe is a cheerful way to brighten up your holiday dessert table with its playful green color, cool peppermint flavor, and irresistibly fudgy texture. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just because you love festive sweets, these brownies are sure to bring smiles and satisfy those seasonal cravings. Give it a try and watch your kitchen transform with holiday magic!
Print
Grinch Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Celebrate the holidays with festive Grinch Brownies, featuring rich chocolate brownies packed with chopped Mint Oreos, topped with a luscious green white chocolate ganache, and adorned with red hots candies to represent the Grinch’s iconic red nose. This fun and flavorful treat is perfect for seasonal parties and dessert tables.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 box (9×13 size) brownie mix
- 26 Mint Oreo cookies, chopped
Green White Chocolate Ganache
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 4 drops leaf green food coloring
Decoration
- Red hots candies
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownies: Preheat your oven as directed on the brownie mix package. Prepare the brownie batter according to the instructions on the box. Gently fold the chopped Mint Oreo cookies into the batter to evenly distribute the minty crunch throughout the brownies.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan and spread evenly. Bake according to box instructions, usually about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Make the Green White Chocolate Ganache: In a heat-safe bowl, combine 2 cups of white chocolate chips with 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Heat gently in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is smooth and melted. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract and 4 drops of leaf green food coloring until the ganache is evenly colored and fragrant.
- Assemble the Brownies: Once the brownies are fully cooled, pour the green white chocolate ganache over the top and spread evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon to cover the entire surface.
- Decorate: While the ganache is still wet, place red hots candies on top to mimic the Grinch’s red nose. Let the ganache set at room temperature or refrigerate for faster firming.
- Serve: Once set, slice the brownies into 12 squares and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated.
Notes
- You can substitute homemade brownies if preferred instead of a boxed mix.
- Adjust the amount of green food coloring to achieve your desired shade of green.
- Make sure brownies are completely cooled before adding ganache to prevent it from melting and becoming too thin.
- For a stronger peppermint flavor, add an extra 1/8 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the ganache.
- Store brownies covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
