Macadamia and Mint Brownie Bites

I am here to apologize. I am sorry I haven't been posting very many treats. I am a jerk, I know. I am just obsessed with dinner these days. So I am here to repent and try and make amends. It's me baby, not you.

It is no new news that the economy blows. Everyone knows it and we are all effected by it in some way. For those who have lost jobs or can't seem to find one, my heart goes out to you. I don't know how you feel, but I can imagine it is difficult.

Rich is a word I only use when describing food, not my financial situation. These brownies are rich. If the drudgery of slipping funds is getting you down, make something like these. Making these brownies will give you a whole new lease on the word "rich".



1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
3/4 cup flour
5 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts
1 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 Tbsp butter
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 tsp peppermint extract

Set oven to 350 degrees. Grease an 11x7 in pan with non-stick spray. Line with a piece of parchment paper, allowing for a 2 inch overhang on each side. Spray the parchment as well. Set aside.

In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar with a hand mixer. Beat until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla. Add flour, cocoa powder and salt and beat until well incorporated, but be sure you don't overmix. Spread batter evenly in the pan. The batter will be thick, you can use your fingers if you want.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean. Cool in the pan on a cooling rack for 15-20 minutes.

In a medium bowl, combine chocolate chips, butter and whipping cream. Microwave for 1 minute on high. Let stand for 30 seconds. Whisk in peppermint extract. Whisk until smooth.

Spread chocolate mixture over the brownies, tilting the pan to ensure the chocolate spreads evenly. Chill for 2 hours.

Using the parchment overhang, lift the brownies out of the pan. You might have to use a sharp knife to loosen the edges. Cut brownie bites into 1 inch squares. Store in the refrigerator.