Mint Chocolate: The Herb and the Confection

Exploring the history and health benefits of the beloved mint-chocolate flavor

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Mint chocolate is not only a popular confection flavor, but also the name of an actual herb with edible leaves that tastes like a combination of mint and chocolate. This article traces the history of mint chocolate, from its origins in ancient civilizations to its modern-day popularity as a flavor in candies, ice creams, and baked goods. It also highlights the various health benefits of the mint plant, which has been used for centuries to aid digestion, relieve headaches, and freshen breath.

Why it matters

Mint chocolate is a beloved flavor that has stood the test of time, with its origins dating back thousands of years. Understanding the history and versatility of this flavor, as well as the medicinal properties of the mint plant, can provide valuable insights into the evolution of food and confectionery trends, as well as the enduring appeal of this unique taste combination.

The details

Mint has been found in Egyptian tombs dating back to 1000 BC, and the ancient Greeks and Romans valued it for its ability to aid digestion and freshen breath. After cacao was brought from the Americas, European elites began sweetening and flavoring hot chocolate with mint, among other spices. In the mid-1800s, advancements in chocolate production led to the mass-production of chocolate mints, with early pioneers like Huyler's and Frango Mints. The iconic Thin Mint cookie, introduced by the Girl Scouts in the 1950s, cemented mint chocolate as a mainstream household flavor. Today, mint chocolate chip ice cream, Junior Mints, and Andes Mints are just a few of the many popular mint-chocolate products on the market.

  • Mint has been found in Egyptian tombs from as far back as 1000 BC.
  • After cacao is brought from the Americas, European elites sweeten and flavor hot chocolate with mint in the 16th-17th centuries.
  • In the mid-1800s, inventions and process improvements made it possible for confectioners to begin mass-producing chocolate.
  • Frango Mints, perhaps the first chocolate mints, were patented in 1918.
  • Girl Scouts of the USA add a 'Chocolate Mint' cookie (later known as Thin Mints) to their lineup in 1951.

The players

Huyler's

One of the earliest mass producers of chocolate mints, operating from 1874 to 1964 with a chain of stores across the country.

Frango Mints

Perhaps the first chocolate mints, patented in 1918 and sold in teahouses and frozen to emphasize the sharp mint flavor.

Girl Scouts of the USA

Added a 'Chocolate Mint' cookie (later known as Thin Mints) to their lineup in 1951, which has become their best-selling variety and cemented mint chocolate as a mainstream household flavor.

Marilyn Ricketts

A culinary student who invented mint chocolate chip ice cream at South Devon College in the UK in 1973.

Menthe

A Greek mythical character from whom the name 'mint' is derived.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

Mint chocolate's enduring popularity, from ancient civilizations to modern-day confections, highlights the versatility and health benefits of the mint plant. As a flavor that has stood the test of time, mint chocolate continues to captivate consumers and inspire innovation in the food and beverage industry.