Chocolate Mint Brownies

I made these brownies last week for my brother-in-law, Rob's birthday.  As I was trying to decide what to make my husband suggested these - it turns out these happen to be Rob's favorites.  I guess you could say my husband had man's intuition, if there is such a thing.  Anyway, these brownies really are yummy.  They take some time to prepare and they are very rich - really you shouldn't eat too many considering the 3 sticks of butter required to make this decadent dessert.

1 c all-purpose flour

½ c butter, softened
½ t salt
4 eggs
1 t vanilla extract
1 can (16-oz.) chocolate syrup
1 c sugar

Filling:
½ c butter, softened
2 c confectioner’s sugar
1 T water
½ t mint extract
3 drops green food coloring


Topping:
1 pkg. (10-oz.) mint chocolate chips
½ c plus 1 T butter, cubed

In a large mixing bowl, combine the first seven ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 3 minutes. Pour batter into a greased 13x9x2-inch baking pan. Bake at 350° for 30 minutes or until toothpick inserted into middle comes out clean (top of brownies will still appear wet.) Cool completely.


For the filling, in a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, confectioner’s sugar, water, mint extract and food coloring until creamy. Spread over cooled brownies. Refrigerate until set.

For the topping, melt chocolate chips and butter over low heat in a small saucepan. Let cool for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Spread over filling. Chill. Cut into squares. Store in refrigerator. Makes 5-6 dozen.