Coffee Brownies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and coffee, you’ve come to the right place! This Coffee Brownies Recipe is one of my absolute favorites. It’s the perfect dessert to whisk away your worries after a long day, providing that much-needed pick-me-up. Whether you’re winding down after a busy week or hosting friends for a casual gathering, these brownies will surely impress everyone.

The best part? They are easy to make and incredibly satisfying! You’ll find yourself coming back for seconds (or thirds!) without a hint of guilt. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious brownies ready in no time.
• Rich and indulgent flavors: The combination of coffee and chocolate creates a decadent taste that is hard to resist.
• Perfect for sharing: These brownies are great for family gatherings or bake sales—everyone will love them!
• Make ahead convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time, and enjoy them throughout the week as a special treat.
• Customizable options: You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these delightful brownies. You probably have most of them in your pantry already!

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

This Coffee Brownies Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize it:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Try different chocolates: Use milk chocolate chips instead of dark for a sweeter treat.
• Add spices: A pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.
• Make it minty: Add a few drops of peppermint extract into the batter for a refreshing twist.

How to Make Coffee Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Line an 8×8 pan with foil, leaving some overhang on the sides. This makes it easy to lift out the brownies later. Don’t forget to spray it with nonstick baking spray!

Step 2: Mix the Chocolate Base

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and cocoa powder until smooth. This step infuses that rich chocolate flavor right from the start!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together the sugar, eggs, espresso powder, and vanilla until light and fluffy. This aeration helps create a lovely texture in your brownies. Then mix in the chocolate butter mixture until well combined.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Stir together the salt, baking powder, and flour in a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients. Be gentle here; over-mixing can lead to tough brownies.

Step 5: Bake

Spread your brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25-28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out slightly sticky—this means they will be perfectly fudgy! Allow them to cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: Prepare Coffee Cream

In a small bowl, stir together heavy cream and instant coffee granules until dissolved. This mixture will add depth to your frosting.

Step 7: Make Frosting

Beat together softened butter and salt until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar along with your coffee cream while mixing on low speed. Once everything is combined, increase speed and beat on high for about a minute until fluffy.

Step 8: Frost Your Brownies

Spread that luscious coffee frosting over your cooled brownies evenly—trust me; this is where it gets really good!

Step 9: Melt Chocolate Topping

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

Step 10: Final Touches

Spread the melted chocolate over the frosted brownies. Allow everything to set before cutting them into sweet squares.

Enjoy every bite of these Coffee Brownies! They’re sure to become one of your go-to recipes for any occasion!

Pro Tips for Making Coffee Brownies Recipe

Creating the perfect batch of coffee brownies is easier than you think—just follow these pro tips to elevate your dessert game!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and quality cocoa powder make a significant difference in flavor. Freshness ensures that your brownies are rich and delightful, while good-quality cocoa adds depth.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined helps keep your brownies fudgy and tender. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies, which we definitely want to avoid!

• Check for Doneness Carefully: Use a toothpick to test for doneness, but remember that a few moist crumbs are okay! This ensures your brownies remain chewy rather than dry.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Letting your brownies cool completely ensures that the frosting doesn’t melt into a gooey mess. It also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Customize Your Coffee Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different types of coffee or espresso powders. This could add unique notes to your brownies, making each batch special.

How to Serve Coffee Brownies Recipe

These coffee brownies are not only delicious but also visually appealing. With a few simple touches, you can present them in a way that impresses friends and family alike.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, fluffy contrast to the rich fudge.
• Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle some dark chocolate shavings on top for an elegant touch and extra chocolatey goodness.
• Chopped Nuts: Add some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for crunch and earthy flavors that complement the coffee.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Almond Milk: A glass of vanilla almond milk pairs wonderfully with these brownies, offering a creamy contrast without overpowering their rich flavor.
• Fresh Berries: A side of fresh raspberries or strawberries provides a bright, tart balance that cuts through the richness of the brownies.
• Coffee Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, serve these brownies alongside a scoop of coffee ice cream—it’s a match made in heaven!
• Chilled Herbal Tea: A refreshing herbal tea can cleanse the palate between bites and complement the coffee flavors beautifully.

With these serving ideas and tips, you’ll be all set to enjoy your homemade coffee brownies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Coffee Brownies are not only delicious, but they also make for a fantastic make-ahead treat! Preparing them in advance can save time and ensure you have a sweet pick-me-up whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing.
• Cut into squares and place them in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

• For warm brownies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place brownies on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Enjoy with a scoop of your favorite non-dairy ice cream!

FAQs

Here are some common questions that may come up as you make these delightful Coffee Brownies.

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

Yes, you can substitute decaf espresso powder for regular espresso powder if you prefer a caffeine-free option. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying!

How do I know when the Coffee Brownies are done baking?

A toothpick inserted into the center of the brownies should come out with a few moist crumbs attached but not wet batter. Remember, they will continue to cook slightly as they cool.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to stir in some chopped walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chunks for added texture and flavor.

What is the best way to serve my Coffee Brownies?

These brownies are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a scoop of non-dairy ice cream, whipped coconut cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Coffee Brownies as much as I do! They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family or indulging yourself after a long day. The rich coffee flavor combined with chocolate is sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!