Introduction

These coffee brownies combine rich chocolate with a bold espresso flavor for a delightful treat. Topped with a creamy coffee frosting and a smooth chocolate glaze, they’re perfect for any coffee lover looking to indulge.

The image shows three square dessert bars stacked on a white plate with a paper doily underneath. Each bar has three layers: a thick, dark brown, moist-looking brownie base, topped by a smooth, light tan peanut butter layer in the middle, and finished with a glossy, dark chocolate ganache layer on top. The bars are neatly cut with clean edges, and the top chocolate layer has light textured grooves. The setting includes a white marbled surface and a blurred white cup in the background, with some dark round objects nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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
3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream (for frosting)
1 1/2 teaspoons instant coffee granules
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
1/8 teaspoon salt (for frosting)
1 3/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream (for chocolate glaze)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 8×8 inch pan with foil and spray with nonstick baking spray.
Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter and cocoa powder until smooth.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat the sugar, eggs, espresso powder, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Add the chocolate butter mixture and mix well.
Step 4: Combine the salt, baking powder, and flour. Gradually stir this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
Step 5: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 25–28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out slightly sticky. Remove from oven and cool completely.
Step 6: For the frosting, stir together the heavy cream and instant coffee granules until dissolved.
Step 7: Beat the softened butter and salt until creamy. Slowly add the powdered sugar and coffee cream mixture while continuing to beat.
Step 8: Once combined, beat on high for 1 minute until light and fluffy. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled brownies.
Step 9: Place the chocolate chips and heavy cream (for glaze) in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 30 seconds, then stir until smooth. If needed, heat an additional 15 seconds and stir again.
Step 10: Spread the melted chocolate glaze over the frosting. Allow it to set before cutting the brownies into 16 squares.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger coffee flavor, add an extra teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the batter.
Use high-quality dark chocolate chips for a richer glaze.
Substitute brewed espresso for instant coffee granules in the frosting for a more intense taste.
To make these gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. Allow chilled brownies to come to room temperature or warm slightly before serving to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

A stack of three square dessert bars is shown on a white plate lined with a brown paper and a white doily. Each bar has three layers: the bottom layer is thick, dense, and dark brown, like a rich brownie; the middle layer is a smooth, light tan peanut butter filling; the top layer is a glossy, dark chocolate ganache with slight ridges. In the background, there is a white cup and blurred dark brown round objects on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular coffee instead of instant espresso powder?

Instant espresso powder is recommended for its concentrated flavor, but you can substitute with strong brewed coffee. Reduce the liquid in the recipe slightly to maintain the right batter consistency.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. This ensures they remain fudgy and not overbaked.