Chocolate Mint Cookie Bars

Chocolate Mint Cookie Bars are the perfect combination of decadent chocolate and refreshing mint, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. With a simple base made from yellow cake mix, these bars come together in no time, which means more time to enjoy them with your friends and family. The addition of Andes mint chips and dark chocolate chips elevates these bars to a whole new level. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or just treating yourself, these Chocolate Mint Cookie Bars are sure to please every palate.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

There’s something about the combination of chocolate and mint that brings smiles to faces. The rich, fudgy texture of these cookie bars is complemented perfectly by the cooling effect of mint. They are easy to make, requiring minimal effort and ingredients, which means you can whip them up quickly, even on a busy day. Plus, the vibrant green of the mint chips makes them visually appealing, perfect for any gathering. These bars are sure to disappear fast, leaving everyone craving just one more bite.

What to Buy

When preparing to make your Chocolate Mint Cookie Bars, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 5 Tbsp melted butter
• 2 Tbsp milk
• 1 cup Andes mint chips
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips

Make sure to get high-quality chocolate chips and mint chips for the best flavor, as they are the stars of this dessert.

Hardware & Gadgets

Before you start baking, gather these essential tools:

• Mixing bowl: For combining your ingredients.
• 9×13 inch baking pan: Perfect for baking your cookie bars evenly.
• Spatula: To help mix and spread your batter.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for the best results.
• Cooling rack: To cool your cookie bars after baking.

Having these tools ready will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Directions: Chocolate Mint Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookie bars bake evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix well until the batter is smooth and fully combined.

Step 4: Add the Chips

Gently fold in the Andes mint chips and dark chocolate chips into the batter. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 5: Spread in the Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Use your spatula to spread it out evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Remove the pan from the oven and let the cookie bars cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Once cool enough to handle, transfer them to a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Substitutions by Category

If you need to make adjustments, consider these substitutions:

• Cake Mix: You can use a gluten-free yellow cake mix for a gluten-free version.
• Eggs: Substitute with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg for a vegan option.
• Butter: Use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free option.
• Milk: Almond milk or oat milk can be used in place of regular milk.
• Mint Chips: If you can’t find Andes mint chips, use regular mint chocolate chips or finely chopped mint chocolates.

These substitutions will help accommodate various dietary needs while maintaining the delicious flavor of your Chocolate Mint Cookie Bars.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Baking can be tricky, and even seasoned bakers can slip up. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons for the best results.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to prevent tough cookie bars.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into warm bars can cause them to fall apart.
• Not lining or greasing the baking pan: This can lead to sticking, making it hard to remove the bars.

Being mindful of these pitfalls can help ensure your Chocolate Mint Cookie Bars come out perfectly.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

To keep your Chocolate Mint Cookie Bars fresh:

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly baked taste.

Reader Questions

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other flavors such as chocolate or vanilla cake mix for a unique twist.

What if I can’t find Andes mint chips?

If Andes mint chips are unavailable, you can use any mint chocolate chips or chop up your favorite mint chocolate bar instead.

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Yes, adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can give an extra crunch and flavor to your cookie bars. Just be sure to adjust the amount of chips accordingly.

How do I know when my cookie bars are done baking?

Check for golden edges and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. If it comes out with wet batter, give it a few more minutes in the oven.

More from the Kitchen

• Peanut Butter Brownies
• Lemon Sugar Cookies
• Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Red Velvet Cake

See You at the Table

Once you’ve made your Chocolate Mint Cookie Bars, gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy the delightful combination of chocolate and mint together. These bars are perfect for sharing, and we hope they bring joy to your gatherings. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a midnight snack, they are sure to be a hit. Happy baking!