Baking with Mint

by

Baking with Mint: Recipes and Tips

Introduction

Mint is a refreshing and versatile herb that can add a delightful twist to your baked goods. Known for its cool, slightly sweet flavor, mint can enhance both sweet and savory recipes. In this blog post, we’ll explore some delicious recipes and handy tips for baking with mint, helping you create aromatic and flavorful treats.

Key Takeaways

  • Versatile Herb: Mint can be used in both sweet and savory baked goods.
  • Flavor Enhancement: Adds a refreshing, cool flavor to your dishes.
  • Health Benefits: Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, promoting overall wellness.
  • Simple to Use: Easy to incorporate into your favorite baking recipes.

Recipes for Baking with Mint

1. Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  7. Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped mint leaves.
  8. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Mint Lemon Pound Cake

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup milk

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
  6. Stir in the chopped mint, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  8. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Mint Chocolate Brownies

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  2. In a large bowl, melt the butter in the microwave or on the stovetop.
  3. Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  5. Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract.
  6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
  7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  8. Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped mint leaves.
  9. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
  10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  11. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting into squares.

Tips for Baking with Mint

  1. Use Fresh Mint: Fresh mint has a more potent flavor compared to dried. Ensure it’s washed and finely chopped before using.
  2. Balance Flavors: Mint’s strong flavor can overpower a dish, so use it sparingly, especially in sweet recipes.
  3. Pair with Chocolate and Citrus: Mint pairs well with chocolate and citrus fruits like lemon, adding a refreshing contrast.
  4. Infuse Butter or Cream: For a subtle mint flavor, infuse butter or cream with mint before using it in your recipes.
  5. Experiment with Combinations: Mix mint with other herbs like basil, rosemary, or thyme to create complex flavor profiles.
  6. Store Properly: Store fresh mint in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp paper towel, and dried mint in an airtight container away from light.

Conclusion

Baking with mint is a wonderful way to add unique flavors and aromas to your dishes. Whether you’re making mint chocolate chip cookies, mint lemon pound cake, or mint chocolate brownies, mint can elevate your baking to new heights. Try these recipes and tips to incorporate this versatile herb into your baking repertoire, and enjoy the delicious results.