Mint Chocolate Swirl Brownies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon mint extract
• Green food coloring (optional)
• Chocolate chips (for topping, optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. This will prevent your brownies from sticking and guarantee easy removal once baked.
2. In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter and stir in the granulated sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a fudgy texture.
4. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mint extract, and a few drops of green food coloring, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
5. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Dollop spoonfuls of the mint cream cheese mixture over the batter, then add the remaining brownie batter on top. Use a knife to gently swirl the cream cheese mixture into the brownie batter for a marbled effect.
6. Optionally, sprinkle chocolate chips on top for added indulgence. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool in the pan before slicing into squares and serving.

Extra Tips: