Double-chocolate Mint Bars

Double-Chocolate Mint Bars Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Double-chocolate Mint Bars are a decadent and delicious dessert that combines rich chocolate flavors with a refreshing hint of mint. These bars are perfect for chocolate lovers looking for a sweet treat with a twist.

History

The origins of Double-chocolate Mint Bars are not well-documented, but it is believed that the combination of chocolate and mint has been enjoyed for centuries. This recipe takes the classic flavor pairing to a new level with the addition of a rich chocolate glaze and a hint of mint extract.

Ingredients

1.75 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
0.5 cup Hershey's cocoa
0.33 cup packed light brown sugar
1.5 tsp baking powder
0.25 tsp salt
1.25 cup (2.5 sticks) butter or margarine, divided
3 eggs, slightly beaten
0.5 tsp mint extract, divided
2 cup (12 oz (340 g) pkg) Hershey's semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 can (14 oz (397 g)) sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated milk)
vanilla glaze (recipe follows)

Vanilla glaze

0.75 cup powdered sugar
5 tsp milk
0.5 tsp vanilla extract

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Grease a 13x9x2 inches baking pan.
In a large bowl, stir together flour, granulated sugar, cocoa, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Cut in 0.75 cup of butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Beat in eggs and 0.25 tsp of mint extract, then spread the mixture into the pan.
Bake for 23 to 25 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt 0.5 cup of butter with chocolate chips, stirring constantly.
Stir in sweetened condensed milk.
Remove from heat and stir in the remaining 0.25 tsp of mint extract.
Pour the mixture over the baked layer.
Let it stand for 20 minutes or until slightly set.
Drizzle the vanilla glaze over the top.
Refrigerate until set, about 1 hour.
Cut into bars.

Vanilla glaze

Mix the ingredients together until smooth.

Variations

For a nutty twist, you can add chopped nuts to the chocolate mixture before pouring it over the baked layer.
You can also experiment with different flavors of extract, such as almond or orange, for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor in this recipe.

- Make sure to let the bars cool completely before cutting them into squares to ensure clean edges.

- For an extra minty flavor, you can add a few drops of peppermint extract to the vanilla glaze.

Serving Suggestions

Double-chocolate Mint Bars are best enjoyed with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Double-chocolate Mint Bars is to ensure that the chocolate mixture is fully melted and smooth before pouring it over the baked layer. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have mint extract on hand, you can use peppermint extract or omit it altogether for a more traditional chocolate flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Double-chocolate Mint Bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

To make Double-chocolate Mint Bars even more visually appealing, you can sprinkle crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings on top before serving.

Pairing Recommendations

Double-chocolate Mint Bars pair well with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of red wine for a sophisticated dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Double-chocolate Mint Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Double-chocolate Mint Bars contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Double-chocolate Mint Bars contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Double-chocolate Mint Bars contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Double-chocolate Mint Bars contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Double-chocolate Mint Bars are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Double-chocolate Mint Bars contain dairy, eggs, and wheat.

Summary

Double-chocolate Mint Bars are a rich and indulgent dessert that should be enjoyed in moderation due to their high calorie and fat content.

Summary

Double-chocolate Mint Bars are a delicious and indulgent dessert that combines rich chocolate flavors with a refreshing hint of mint. Perfect for chocolate lovers looking for a sweet treat with a twist, these bars are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that I had found at a yard sale many years ago. The title caught my eye - Double-chocolate Mint Bars. I had never heard of such a decadent dessert before, and I knew I had to try making it.

I brought the cookbook home and flipped through the pages until I found the recipe. As I read through the list of ingredients and instructions, I could practically taste the rich chocolate and refreshing mint flavors melting in my mouth. I had always been a fan of chocolate and mint together, so I was excited to give it a try.

The next day, I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in the kitchen. I melted the chocolate, mixed in the mint extract, and spread the batter into a baking dish. The aroma that wafted through the kitchen as the bars baked in the oven was intoxicating. I couldn't wait to taste the finished product.

When the bars were finally done, I pulled them out of the oven and let them cool before cutting them into squares. The first bite was pure heaven. The rich chocolate paired perfectly with the cool mint, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that danced on my taste buds. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my dessert repertoire.

As I continued to make the Double-chocolate Mint Bars over the years, I experimented with different variations. I added crushed peppermint candies on top for a festive touch during the holidays, and drizzled white chocolate over the bars for an extra layer of indulgence. Each time I made them, they were met with rave reviews from family and friends.

One day, while I was at a baking class, I met a fellow dessert enthusiast who shared her own twist on the Double-chocolate Mint Bars recipe. She suggested adding a layer of creamy mint frosting on top of the bars for an extra burst of flavor. I was intrigued by her idea and couldn't wait to try it out.

I went home and whipped up a batch of the bars, this time adding the mint frosting on top. The result was absolutely delicious. The smooth, creamy frosting added a new dimension to the bars, making them even more irresistible. I knew that this new variation would be a hit with everyone who tried it.

As the years went by, I continued to make the Double-chocolate Mint Bars for every occasion. They became a signature dessert of mine, a recipe that I was known for among family and friends. I shared the recipe with anyone who asked, and it quickly became a favorite among my loved ones.

To this day, the Double-chocolate Mint Bars remain one of my most cherished recipes. They hold a special place in my heart, not just because of their delicious taste, but because of the memories and stories that are attached to them. Every time I make a batch of these bars, I am reminded of the day I first discovered the recipe and the joy it has brought to so many people since then.

I am grateful for the serendipitous encounter with that old cookbook and the Double-chocolate Mint Bars recipe that changed my life. It just goes to show that sometimes, the most wonderful things can come from the most unexpected places. And for that, I will always be thankful.