Coffee Brownies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful pick-me-up that combines rich chocolate with the bold flavor of coffee, you’ve found it in this Coffee Brownies Recipe. These brownies are not just any dessert; they’re an indulgent treat that brings joy to busy weeknights or family gatherings. The creamy coffee frosting layered on top makes them extra special, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or sharing with friends, these brownies are sure to impress.

What makes this recipe even more exciting is how easy it is to whip up a batch! You don’t need to be an expert baker—just gather your ingredients and follow along. Trust me, once you try these brownies, they’ll become a go-to favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Coffee Brownies Recipe comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it perfect for those last-minute cravings.
• Decadently Delicious: The combination of chocolate and coffee creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will adore.
• Great for Sharing: With 16 squares per batch, these brownies are ideal for potlucks, parties, or simply sharing with family.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake them ahead of time and let the flavors develop overnight for an even more delicious treat!
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to fit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the simple and wholesome ingredients you’ll need to create these scrumptious Coffee Brownies. Most of these items are likely already in your pantry, making this recipe convenient and accessible.

For the Brownies

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup dark cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon table salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

For the Coffee Frosting

• 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
• 1 1/2 teaspoons instant coffee granules
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 3/4 cup powdered sugar

For the Chocolate Topping

• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream

Variations

The beauty of this Coffee Brownies Recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make these brownies your own with the following variations:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
• Incorporate spices: A dash of cinnamon or cayenne pepper can add an exciting twist to the flavor profile.
• Make it mocha: Substitute some cocoa powder with finely ground coffee for an even stronger coffee flavor.
• Top with sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles on top of the frosting for a fun and festive touch!

How to Make Coffee Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lining your 8×8 pan with foil and spraying it with nonstick baking spray ensures easy removal later on. This step is key so that your brownies come out perfectly every time!

Step 2: Mix the Butter and Cocoa

In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and dark cocoa powder until smooth. This mixture will provide that rich chocolate foundation that every brownie needs.

Step 3: Combine Sugar and Eggs

In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, eggs, instant espresso powder, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. This helps incorporate air into the batter, giving your brownies a lovely texture.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Stir together the salt, baking powder, and flour in a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients until fully combined. Be careful not to over-mix; just blend until you see no dry flour.

Step 5: Bake Your Brownies

Spread the brownie batter evenly in your prepared pan. Bake for about 25-28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out slightly sticky. Allow them to cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: Prepare Coffee Cream

In a small bowl, stir together the heavy whipping cream and instant coffee granules until dissolved. This will add that delectable coffee flavor to your frosting.

Step 7: Make Frosting

Beat together softened butter and salt until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar followed by your coffee cream while mixing well. Beat on high speed for one minute until fluffy—this is where all that creamy goodness comes from!

Step 8: Frost Your Brownies

Spread the luscious frosting over your cooled brownies evenly using a spatula. Let it set while you prepare the chocolate topping.

Step 9: Melt Chocolate Topping

Place dark chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for about 30 seconds; then stir until melted and smooth—if needed, heat an additional 15 seconds.

Step 10: Finish & Serve

Spread the melted chocolate over the frosted brownies. Allow everything to set before cutting into squares. Enjoy each bite of this delightful treat!

Pro Tips for Making Coffee Brownies Recipe

Making the perfect coffee brownies is all about the little details that elevate your dessert. Here are some pro tips to ensure your brownies turn out delicious every time!

• Use high-quality cocoa powder: The flavor of your brownies largely depends on the cocoa powder you choose, so opt for a premium brand for a richer chocolate taste.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding in the dry ingredients will keep your brownies soft and fudgy. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which isn’t what we want!
• Check for doneness with care: A toothpick should come out slightly sticky from the center; this indicates perfectly baked brownies that will continue to set as they cool.
• Cool completely before frosting: Allowing your brownies to cool completely helps the frosting adhere better and prevents it from melting into a gooey mess.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost and texture contrast.

How to Serve Coffee Brownies Recipe

Serving coffee brownies is just as delightful as making them! Here are some creative ways to present this sweet treat that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and fluffy contrast to the dense brownies, enhancing their richness without overpowering their flavor.
• Chocolate shavings: Adding chocolate shavings on top creates an elegant look and elevates the chocolate experience by introducing different textures.
• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of fresh mint not only adds a pop of color but also provides a refreshing aroma that complements the coffee flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla bean ice cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla bean ice cream contrasts perfectly with the rich chocolatey flavors of the brownies, making for an indulgent dessert combo.
• Fresh strawberries: Juicy strawberries add brightness and acidity, balancing out the sweetness of the brownies while providing a fresh burst of flavor.
• Espresso or coffee: Pairing these brownies with a warm cup of espresso or coffee enhances their coffee essence and makes for a comforting after-dinner treat.
• Nutty granola: A small bowl of nutty granola alongside your brownie provides crunch and can be sprinkled on top for added texture.

Now you’re all set to bake up some scrumptious coffee brownies! Enjoy every bite, whether it’s during a cozy night in or shared at a gathering with loved ones. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Coffee Brownies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store them for later. Here’s how to keep them fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, place them in the refrigerator, where they’ll last up to a week.
• If you want to keep them even longer, consider freezing.

Freezing

• Allow brownies to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy brownies warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the desired number of brownies on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual brownies for about 15-20 seconds for a quick treat.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful Coffee Brownies Recipe.

Can I use decaf coffee instead of espresso powder in this Coffee Brownies Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute decaf coffee or instant coffee granules if you prefer a caffeine-free version. Just use the same amount specified in the recipe.

What makes these Coffee Brownies so special?

The combination of rich cocoa and espresso gives these brownies a decadent flavor that’s both unique and comforting. The creamy coffee frosting adds an extra layer of indulgence that really elevates the experience!

How should I store my Coffee Brownies?

Store your Coffee Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage!

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the Coffee Brownies Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in your favorite nuts, chocolate chunks, or even caramel bits into the batter before baking for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these scrumptious Coffee Brownies! They are not only a treat but also a lovely way to enjoy a little pick-me-up anytime you need it. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or indulging yourself after a busy day, these brownies are sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy every bite!