Imagine this: the wafting scent of rich espresso mingling with luscious chocolate fills your kitchen as the brownies bake, promising an indulgent treat. I stumbled upon this delightful combination of coffee brownies and mocha frosting during a late-night craving, and it transformed my dessert game forever. These brownies are not just a sweet fix; they bring an exciting twist to traditional chocolate treats that both coffee lovers and casual eaters will rave about.
With the ease of simple ingredients and a preparation time that fits perfectly into any busy schedule, you’ll be left wondering why you ever reached for store-bought snacks. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering of friends, this recipe has all the makings of a real crowd-pleaser. So, let’s dive into baking these irresistible coffee brownies that promise to elevate your dessert repertoire, one gooey, chocolatey bite at a time!
Why are Coffee Brownies so irresistible?
Decadent Flavor: The rich blend of espresso and chocolate creates a depth of taste that’s simply unmatched.
Easy Recipe: With only a handful of ingredients, you can whip up these delightful treats in just about 50 minutes.
Crowd Favorite: Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, these brownies are sure to impress both coffee aficionados and dessert lovers alike.
Mocha Frosting Magic: The creamy mocha frosting takes them to the next level, adding an extra layer of indulgence.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them warm with a scoop of ice cream or as a delightful afternoon snack with coffee.
Baking these delicious brownies not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings joy to those around you. Give yourself a break from fast food and try making your own treats!
Coffee Brownies Ingredients
For the Coffee Brownies
- Unsalted butter – 1/2 cup (113g); this adds richness to your brownies.
- Granulated sugar – 1 cup (200g); it balances the cocoa’s bitterness with sweetness.
- Large eggs – 2, at room temperature; they help create a fudgy texture.
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon; enhances the overall flavor of your coffee brownies.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – 1/3 cup (32g), sifted; contributes to the deep chocolate flavor.
- Instant espresso powder – 2 tablespoons; intensifies the coffee flavor without the need for brewing.
- All-purpose flour – 1/2 cup (60g); gives structure to your brownies, making them deliciously chewy.
- Baking powder – 1/4 teaspoon; ensures your brownies have a light lift.
- Salt – 1/4 teaspoon; balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips – 1/2 cup (85g); these add delightful pockets of melty chocolate.
For the Mocha Frosting
- Unsalted butter – 1/4 cup (57g), softened; creates a creamy base for your frosting.
- Powdered sugar – 1 1/2 cups (180g), sifted; sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – 3 tablespoons; deepens the chocolate flavor in your frosting.
- Strong brewed coffee – 1 tablespoon, cooled; a splash that’s crucial for the true mocha taste.
- Vanilla extract – 1/2 teaspoon; rounds out the flavors in the frosting.
- A pinch of salt; enhances the sweetness and makes the flavors pop.
With this collection of ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying coffee brownies that tantalize the taste buds and warm the soul!
How to Make Coffee Brownies
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Preheat your oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will ensure your brownies come out easily and cook evenly.
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Whisk dry ingredients – In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
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Mix wet ingredients – In a large bowl, combine the melted butter with the granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth and blended. Add the eggs one by one, whisking each in until the mixture is glossy and thick. Stir in the vanilla extract and instant espresso powder until fully dissolved.
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Combine and fold – Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Keep folding until no dry streaks are visible, then mix in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
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Bake the brownies – Pour the rich, sticky batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs. Cool completely on a wire rack.
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Prepare the frosting – While the brownies cool, beat the softened butter in a bowl until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, brewed coffee, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, beating until the mixture is light, fluffy, and smooth.
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Frost and serve – Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the mocha frosting generously on top. Allow it to set before cutting into squares for serving.
Optional: Sprinkle crushed coffee beans on top for an extra coffee kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Coffee Brownies
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Room Temperature Eggs: Use eggs that are at room temperature for a smoother batter that helps your coffee brownies rise beautifully.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to ensure your brownies remain fudgy and prevent them from becoming cake-like.
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Check for Doneness: To avoid dry brownies, do the toothpick test. For moist coffee brownies, aim for moist crumbs rather than fully clean.
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Cooling Time: Allow your brownies to cool completely in the pan before frosting. This helps the frosting to set perfectly and prevents it from melting off.
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Experiment with Toppings: Enhance your coffee brownies by adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the mocha frosting for extra texture and flavor.
Enjoy the adventure of baking with this warm-hearted recipe, and say goodbye to fast food indulgences!
Make Ahead Options
These Coffee Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix everything and refrigerate it in the baking pan covered with plastic wrap. For the mocha frosting, you can make it up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just allow the batter to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven, and frost the brownies after they’ve cooled. This way, you’ll have decadent, fresh Coffee Brownies with mocha frosting ready to enjoy with minimal effort during your busy week!
Coffee Brownies Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these delightfully chewy brownies to match your mood and taste buds!
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Nutty Addition: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor. This twist will give your brownies a delightful texture contrast.
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Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the brownie batter for a surprising heat that beautifully complements the chocolate and coffee flavors. It’s a bold move that might just steal the show!
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Decadent Caramel Swirl: Drizzle 1/4 cup of caramel sauce into the batter before baking. Swirling it in creates beautiful ribbons of gooey goodness that enhance every bite.
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Minty Freshness: Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract into the brownie batter for a refreshing, minty infusion. This is perfect if you’re a fan of mint chocolate treats!
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Dark Chocolate Delight: Replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips or chunks for an intense, rich flavor experience. The bitterness of dark chocolate makes each bite even more indulgent.
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Fruit Fusion: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped cherries or raspberries for a fruity twist that brightens up the cocoa flavor. The tartness pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the brownies.
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Gluten-Free: Swap in 1/2 cup of gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make these brownies gluten-free while keeping their rich, fudgy texture intact.
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Vegan Variation: Use 1/2 cup of applesauce instead of eggs and substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil for a delicious vegan treat. Even without eggs, these brownies will be wonderfully moist and flavorful!
You can mix and match these ideas to create your ideal coffee brownie experience. Let each variation be an adventure that delights your palate!
What to Serve with Coffee Brownies?
Imagine the perfect dessert experience that pairs beautifully with your indulgent coffee brownies, each complementing the rich flavors in delightful harmony.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, smooth texture of vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the rich chocolate and coffee flavors, adding a refreshing coolness to each bite.
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Espresso: Enhance the coffee experience by serving a shot of strong espresso alongside your brownies. It elevates the flavors and satisfies that coffee craving.
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Fresh Berries: Bright, tart berries like raspberries or strawberries add a burst of freshness. Their natural sweetness helps cut through the richness of the brownies.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A rich chocolate drizzle on top of your brownies not only adds elegance but also intensifies the chocolate experience for true chocoholics.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream serves as a delightful contrast to the dense brownies, making each redolent bite even more luscious.
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Milk: A classic pairing, a tall glass of cold milk complements the fudginess of the brownies and helps balance the depth of their flavors.
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Peanut Butter Cup Sundae: Take your brownies to new heights by serving them with a scoop of peanut butter ice cream topped with warm chocolate sauce, creating an unforgettable sundae.
No matter your choice, these delightful pairings will surely create an unforgettable dessert experience, captivating your taste buds and warming your heart!
How to Store and Freeze Coffee Brownies
Room Temperature: Store your coffee brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate the brownies in a tightly sealed container for up to a week. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your frosted coffee brownies after freezing, thaw them overnight in the fridge. You can warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving for that freshly-baked taste!
Coffee Brownies with Mocha Frosting Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for the Coffee Brownies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Make sure your eggs are not past their expiration date, and choose unsalted butter for better control over salt levels. When opting for chocolate chips, I recommend semi-sweet for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience. If you’re using instant espresso powder, check that it’s fresh to ensure a rich coffee flavor.
How should I store my Coffee Brownies, and how long do they last?
You can store your coffee brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them chilled, keep them in the fridge for about a week. Just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before diving in! They taste great cold too, especially if you like a firmer texture.
Can I freeze Coffee Brownies and how do I do it?
Yes! For freezing, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This double protection helps prevent freezer burn. You can store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge. To regain that fresh-baked warmth, simply microwave for about 10-15 seconds!
What should I do if my brownies turn out too dry?
Very! If your brownies come out too dry, it could be due to overbaking. Make sure to check them with a toothpick: you should aim for moist crumbs, not clean. If you experience this, consider reducing your baking time by a couple of minutes in future batches. You can also try adding a bit of melted chocolate or butter to the batter to improve moisture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! If you need to make a gluten-free version of these coffee brownies, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that any other add-ins—like chocolate chips—are also gluten-free. Follow the same mixing and baking instructions, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free coffee brownies!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for my Coffee Brownies?
While these brownies are generally suitable for most diets, keep in mind that they do contain eggs and dairy, making them unsuitable for strict vegans. You can substitute flax eggs for the eggs and use non-dairy butter for a dairy-free option. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially for those with particular sensitivities. Enjoy baking!
Indulge in Decadent Coffee Brownies with Mocha Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In a large bowl, combine the melted butter with the granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth and blended. Add the eggs one by one, whisking each in until glossy. Stir in the vanilla extract and instant espresso powder until fully dissolved.
- Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until no dry streaks remain, then mix in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Pour the rich batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- While the brownies cool, beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, brewed coffee, vanilla extract, and salt until light and fluffy.
- Once cooled, spread the mocha frosting generously on top and allow to set before cutting into squares.
