These Mint Chocolate Chip Oreo Bars are a decadent and visually appealing dessert that combines the rich, fudgy goodness of a chocolate brownie base with a cool and creamy mint chocolate chip Oreo filling, all topped with a luscious chocolate ganache and garnished with Oreo cookies and chocolate chips. This layered treat offers a delightful contrast in textures and flavors, from the slightly chewy brownie bottom to the smooth, minty middle and the rich, melt-in-your-mouth ganache. The brownie base is typically made with cocoa powder and melted chocolate, resulting in a deep chocolate flavor and a fudgy consistency. The middle layer incorporates crushed mint chocolate chip Oreo cookies into a creamy mixture, often made with cream cheese, whipped cream, or a combination, infused with mint extract or crème de menthe for a refreshing coolness. The crushed Oreos not only add a delightful mint chocolate flavor but also provide little pockets of cookie crunch throughout the creamy layer. A smooth and glossy chocolate ganache, made from melted chocolate and heavy cream, is then generously drizzled or spread over the mint layer, adding an extra layer of intense chocolate flavor. The bars are often garnished with whole or halved mint chocolate chip Oreo cookies, chocolate chips, or chocolate shavings, enhancing both their visual appeal and their decadent taste. These bars are perfect for chocolate and mint lovers alike, offering a satisfyingly rich and refreshing dessert that is ideal for parties, potlucks, or a special treat at home. The combination of textures and the bold flavors of chocolate and mint make these Mint Chocolate Chip Oreo Bars an irresistible indulgence.
The texture of Mint Chocolate Chip Oreo Bars is a delightful combination of fudgy, creamy, and crunchy elements. The brownie base is typically dense and chewy. The middle layer is smooth and creamy, with scattered pockets of slightly crunchy Oreo cookie pieces and the occasional burst of a chocolate chip. The chocolate ganache topping is rich and smooth, melting in your mouth. The Oreo cookie and chocolate chip garnishes add further variations in crunch and chewiness.
The flavor profile is a harmonious blend of rich chocolate and cool, refreshing mint. The brownie base provides a deep, cocoa-forward chocolate flavor. The middle layer offers a creamy mintiness, enhanced by the distinct chocolate and mint notes of the crushed Oreo cookies and the occasional bittersweetness of a chocolate chip. The chocolate ganache topping adds a concentrated, decadent chocolate flavor. The overall flavor is a satisfying balance of sweet, chocolatey, and cool mint, making it a treat that appeals to both chocolate and mint enthusiasts.
Mint Chocolate Chip Oreo Bars are an ideal dessert for parties, potlucks, gatherings, or any occasion where a rich and flavorful treat is desired. Their layered appearance and attractive garnishes make them visually appealing, and their combination of chocolate and mint flavors is often a crowd-pleaser. They are also a great option for making ahead of time, as they hold up well in the refrigerator.
The preparation of Mint Chocolate Chip Oreo Bars involves making a chocolate brownie base, preparing a creamy mint chocolate chip Oreo filling, assembling the layers, making a chocolate ganache topping, and then chilling the bars before serving. The brownie base is typically made by melting butter and chocolate, then mixing in sugar, eggs, flour, and cocoa powder. This batter is baked until fudgy. While the brownie cools, the mint chocolate chip Oreo filling is made by combining softened cream cheese (or a similar creamy base) with crushed mint chocolate chip Oreo cookies and mint extract. This mixture is spread over the cooled brownie base. The chocolate ganache is made by heating heavy cream and then pouring it over chopped chocolate, allowing it to melt and then stirring until smooth. The ganache is then poured over the mint Oreo layer. The bars are chilled in the refrigerator to allow all the layers to set before being cut into squares and garnished with additional Oreo cookies and chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
For the Brownie Base:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 4 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Mint Chocolate Chip Oreo Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon mint extract
- 1 (10.1 ounce) package mint chocolate chip Oreo cookies, coarsely crushed (reserve some for garnish)
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For Garnish:
- Additional mint chocolate chip Oreo cookies, halved or quartered
- Chocolate chips or chunks
Equipment:
- 9×9 inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Microwave-safe bowl (for ganache)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- Make the Brownie Base: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and unsweetened chocolate together, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar. Let cool slightly. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Let the brownie base cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare the Mint Chocolate Chip Oreo Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Beat in the heavy cream and mint extract until well combined. Gently fold in the coarsely crushed mint chocolate chip Oreo cookies.
- Assemble the Layers: Once the brownie base is completely cooled, spread the mint chocolate chip Oreo filling evenly over the top of the brownie layer.
- Make the Chocolate Ganache: Place the chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer around the edges. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes without stirring. Gently stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth and glossy.
- Pour Ganache Over Filling: Pour the warm chocolate ganache evenly over the mint chocolate chip Oreo filling. Use a spatula to spread it to the edges.
- Chill the Bars: Refrigerate the bars for at least 2-3 hours, or until all the layers are firm and set.
- Cut and Garnish: Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut them into squares. Garnish each square with halved or quartered mint chocolate chip Oreo cookies and chocolate chips or chunks.
- Serve: Serve the Mint Chocolate Chip Oreo Bars chilled and enjoy!
These rich and refreshing bars are a delightful treat for any occasion.