Craving a decadent dessert that combines the irresistible flavors of thin mints and rich brownies? Look no further! Imagine sinking your fork into layers of creamy mint cheesecake nestled on a chewy brownie crust – a match made in dessert heaven. This thin mint brownie cheesecake recipe is a delightful fusion of two beloved treats, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Base
- 24 whole Thin Mint Cookies
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- Pinch of kosher salt
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 4 (8 oz) blocks of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon mint extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Green food coloring
- 15 Thin Mint cookies, crushed
For the Thin Mint Mix-In
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup Cool Whip
- 5 Thin Mint cookies, halved
- 5 Thin Mint cookies, crushed
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch springform pan
- Stand mixer with paddle attachment
- Food processor or blender
- Small saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Metal measuring cup
- Parchment paper
- Oven preheated to 350 degrees F
Preparation
Preparing this decadent Thin Mint Brownie Cheesecake is easier than you think, and the result is a perfect combination of creamy mint cheesecake on a chewy brownie crust.
Making the Brownie Base
- Adjust the oven rack to the lower-third position and preheat it to 350°F (177°C).
- Line an 11×7-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later.
- Melt butter and semisweet chocolate in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Let it cool to room temperature.
- Whisk sugar into the cooled chocolate-butter mixture, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract and gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, reserving about a quarter cup for later use.
Preparing the Cheesecake Batter
- Using a handheld mixer or stand mixer, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add granulated sugar and mint extract to the cream cheese, beating until well combined.
- Mix in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Fold in crushed Thin Mint cookies to the cheesecake batter, creating a minty flavor and some delightful texture.
- Take the reserved brownie batter and drop spoonfuls on top of the cheesecake batter.
- Using a knife, gently swirl the brownie batter into the cheesecake batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for the required time until set.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for several hours before adding the final touch of toppings.
Baking Instructions
Assembling the Layers
To assemble the delicious layers of this Thin Mint Brownie Cheesecake, start by pressing the prepared brownie batter into the bottom of the springform pan. Then, pour the creamy cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer, creating a beautiful swirl effect by gently running a butter knife through the two batters.
Baking Time and Temperature
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) before placing the assembled cheesecake inside to bake. Allow the Thin Mint Brownie Cheesecake to bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the edges are set, but the center still slightly jiggles. Once baked, let the cheesecake cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours, ensuring a perfect texture and flavor fusion.
Garnishing and Serving
When it comes to showcasing your Thin Mint Brownie Cheesecake, garnishing and serving play a crucial role in presentation and taste. Here’s how to elevate the visual appeal and serving experience of your delightful creation:
Decorating Your Cheesecake
To add a touch of elegance to your Thin Mint Brownie Cheesecake, consider garnishing individual slices with a dollop of spray whipped topping. For a visually appealing finish, halve some Thin Mints with a knife and delicately place them into the whipped cream. Additionally or alternatively, you can crush additional Thin Mints over the whipped cream for an extra pop of minty flavor and crunchy texture.
Serving Suggestions
For a perfect serving, ensure to cut each slice of the cheesecake with a sharp knife to maintain the integrity of the layers. As you plate the slices, pay attention to the visual aesthetics by ensuring each garnished slice looks inviting and well-presented. Pair your Thin Mint Brownie Cheesecake with a refreshing mint tea or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a memorable dessert experience.
Storage and Preservation
Refrigeration
After preparing these delectable Thin Mint Brownie Cheesecake bars, it’s essential to refrigerate any leftovers. Baked goods with cream cheese, like these cheesecake brownies, should always be stored in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
Freezing Tips
If you have some extra Thin Mint Brownie Cheesecake bars and want to save them for later enjoyment, you can also freeze them. Simply cut the bars into individual slices, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them in an airtight container before storing them in the freezer. When ready to indulge, allow the frozen bars to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
Conclusion
Creating a delectable Thin Mint Brownie Cheesecake is a delightful experience that combines the richness of brownies with the refreshing taste of mint cheesecake. The swirl effect and garnishes add visual appeal, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Remember to refrigerate leftovers and freeze extra bars for future enjoyment. Decorating with whipped topping and crushed cookies enhances the presentation, while serving with mint tea or vanilla ice cream elevates the flavor profile. Enjoy the indulgent experience of savoring each slice of this mouthwatering dessert.