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Coffee Espresso Brownies with Chocolate Frosting Recipe

4.9 from 128 reviews

These Coffee Brownies combine rich chocolate flavor with a bold coffee twist, topped with a creamy espresso-infused frosting and a smooth dark chocolate ganache. Perfectly fudgy and moist, these brownies offer a sophisticated treat for coffee and chocolate lovers alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Batter

  • 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

Espresso 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

Chocolate Ganache

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with foil and spray it with nonstick baking spray for easy removal.
  2. Mix butter and cocoa: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and dark cocoa powder until smooth and fully combined.
  3. Combine sugar and eggs: In a separate large bowl, beat the granulated sugar, eggs, instant espresso powder, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is light and fluffy, indicating enough air has been incorporated.
  4. Incorporate chocolate butter mix: Add the cocoa and butter mixture to the sugar and eggs, mixing thoroughly to create a smooth batter.
  5. Mix dry ingredients: In another bowl, stir together the salt, baking powder, and all-purpose flour. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined to avoid overmixing.
  6. Bake the brownies: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 25 to 28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but is not wet. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
  7. Prepare espresso cream: In a small bowl, stir together the heavy whipping cream and instant coffee granules until the coffee dissolves.
  8. Make the frosting: Beat the softened butter and salt in a mixing bowl until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and the coffee cream mixture, beating continuously. Once all ingredients are incorporated, increase the speed to high and beat for 1 minute until the frosting is light and fluffy.
  9. Frost the brownies: Spread the espresso frosting evenly over the cooled brownies to form a smooth layer.
  10. Make the ganache: Place dark chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 30 seconds, then stir until smooth and creamy. If needed, heat for an additional 15 seconds and stir again until the ganache is fully melted.
  11. Top with ganache: Spread the warm chocolate ganache over the espresso frosting. Allow the ganache to set completely before cutting into 16 squares for serving.

Notes

  • For best results, use high-quality dark cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips.
  • Allow the brownies to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting or sliding.
  • Instant espresso powder intensifies the coffee flavor without adding liquid.
  • Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
  • You can omit the espresso frosting and ganache for a simpler brownie or substitute with your favorite frosting.

Keywords: coffee brownies, espresso brownies, chocolate brownies with coffee, rich chocolate dessert, fudgy brownies, coffee frosting, chocolate ganache