Mint Brownie Ice Cream Squares

A friend brought this to dinner the other night, it was so yummy I had to find the recipe!   From the our best bites book.  This mix of chewy brownie, mint ice cream and creamy topping is to die for!

Mint Ice Cream Brownies

Ingredients:
1 box brownie mix (or recipe for brownies)
1 (1 1/2 quart) mint chip ice cream
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup cream
1/2 tsp peppermint extract
15-20 Oreo Cookies, crushed
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping
Shaved chocolate or sprinkles (optional)

Directions:

Bake Brownies according to directions in a 9x 13 pan.  Cool completely and place in freezer to chill.

Soften ice cream at room temperature and stirring every 10 minutes, or in the microwave at half power until it can stir easily with a spoon until the consistency of frosting.   Gently spread over brownies evenly.   Put pan back in freezer while completing next step.

Heat cream in microwave until hot and bubbly.  Pour in chocolate chips.  Cover bowl with plastic wrap.  Let sit for 5 minutes and then whisk until smooth.  Whisk in peppermint extract and let cool until almost room temperature.  Drizzle evenly over ice cream in pan.  Sprinkle crushed cookies evenly over chocolate and lightly press in.   Spread whipped topping in an even layer on top.   Sprinkle with chocolate shavings or sprinkles if desired.

Freeze at least several hours, until firm.  When ready to serve let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften.  Cut into squares and serve.   Lasts several days covered in the freezer.