Coffee Brownies Recipe
If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and coffee, you’ve come to the right place! This Coffee Brownies Recipe is a true delight that will satisfy your sweet tooth while giving you that much-needed boost. Whether you’re coming home after a long day or hosting a cozy gathering with friends, these brownies are sure to impress.
What makes this recipe special is the creamy coffee frosting layered on top of decadent chocolate brownies. It’s like having your favorite coffee shop dessert right at home. Plus, they’re super easy to make — perfect for busy weeknights or family celebrations!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: These brownies come together in just 20 minutes of prep time, making them an easy choice for any occasion.
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of dark cocoa and espresso creates a rich, indulgent flavor that coffee lovers will adore.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone can enjoy these fudgy brownies, whether served as an after-school treat or a delightful dessert after dinner.
- Perfect for Make-Ahead: Bake these brownies ahead of time and store them for later. They taste even better after chilling in the fridge!
- Customizable Topping: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or sprinkles on top for an extra touch of fun!

Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Coffee Brownies Recipe, we’re using simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to whip up these delicious treats!
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
One of the best things about this Coffee Brownies Recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:
- Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Make It Minty: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the brownie batter for a refreshing twist.
- Swap the Cocoa: Use carob powder instead of cocoa powder for a unique flavor profile that’s a bit sweeter.
- Try Different Frosting: Experiment with flavored frostings like mocha or vanilla if coffee isn’t your thing.
How to Make Coffee Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your brownies cook evenly. While the oven warms up, line an 8×8 pan with foil and spray it with nonstick baking spray. This will help you easily remove your brownies once they’re baked!
Step 2: Mix Butter and Cocoa
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and dark cocoa powder until smooth. This step is crucial because it creates a rich chocolate base for your brownies.
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 process incorporates air into the mixture, which will give your brownies a lovely texture.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Mixture
Now add the chocolate butter mixture into your fluffy egg mixture and mix well. Combining these two mixtures ensures every bite is packed with delicious flavor.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Stir together the salt, baking powder, and all-purpose flour in another bowl. Gradually fold this dry mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those fudgy brownies!
Step 6: Bake Your Brownies
Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan and bake for 25-28 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out slightly sticky — that’s how you know they’re perfectly gooey! Once done, let them cool completely before frosting.
Step 7: Prepare Coffee Cream
While the brownies cool, stir together heavy whipping cream and instant coffee granules until combined. This flavorful cream will be whipped into your frosting.
Step 8: Make Your Frosting
In another bowl, beat softened butter with a pinch of salt until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar along with your coffee cream while mixing. Once everything’s well combined, beat on high for about one minute until fluffy.
Step 9: Frost Your Brownies
Spread this luscious coffee frosting over the cooled brownies in an even layer. This step adds richness and enhances that wonderful coffee flavor!
Step 10: Create Chocolate Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate chips and heavy cream. Heat it in short intervals (30 seconds then another 15 seconds) until melted and smooth. Pour this chocolate over your frosted brownies for that extra touch of indulgence.
Let everything set before cutting into squares — then enjoy every heavenly bite!
Pro Tips for Making Coffee Brownies Recipe
Making the perfect coffee brownies is easier than you might think, especially with these handy tips!
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and quality cocoa powder can make a significant difference in the flavor and texture of your brownies. Always check the expiration dates to ensure you’re using the best possible ingredients.
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Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough brownies. Mix just until everything is combined for a fudgy, rich texture that melts in your mouth.
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Check for doneness early: Ovens can vary, so start checking your brownies a few minutes before the 25-minute mark. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs—this ensures they stay soft and gooey.
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Let them cool completely: While it’s tempting to dig in right away, allowing the brownies to cool completely before cutting helps them set properly. This results in cleaner cuts and a better texture.
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Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chunks to the batter for extra texture, or consider infusing your frosting with different flavors like almond or hazelnut for a unique twist.
How to Serve Coffee Brownies Recipe
These coffee brownies are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Presenting them nicely can make any occasion feel special!
Garnishes
- Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the rich chocolate flavor.
- Chocolate shavings: Grating some dark chocolate on top provides an elegant finish and enhances the chocolatey goodness of your brownies.
Side Dishes
- Vanilla ice cream: The creamy vanilla contrasts beautifully with the rich coffee brownies, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
- Fresh berries: Strawberries or raspberries offer a refreshing tartness that cuts through the sweetness of the brownies.
- Coffee: Of course, pairing these brownies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee amplifies their flavor and makes for an indulgent treat.
- Nutty granola: A light sprinkle of nutty granola on top can add a crunchy element, enhancing both texture and taste while keeping things wholesome.
With these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll be able to impress your family and friends with your delicious homemade coffee brownies! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage
These Coffee Brownies are perfect for meal prep and can easily be made ahead of time. They store well, making them an ideal treat for busy days or to share with friends!
Storing Leftovers
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing
- Cut the brownies into squares before freezing for easy serving.
- Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- To enjoy brownies warm, microwave individual squares for about 10-15 seconds.
- For a slightly crispy exterior, reheat in a toaster oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
FAQs
Have questions about this delicious Coffee Brownies Recipe? We’ve got you covered!
Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of dark cocoa powder in the Coffee Brownies Recipe?
Yes, you can use regular cocoa powder if that’s what you have on hand. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!
How do I make the coffee frosting for the Coffee Brownies Recipe?
To make the coffee frosting, simply mix together heavy cream with instant coffee granules, then beat with softened butter and powdered sugar until fluffy. It’s that simple!
Can I substitute the heavy whipping cream in the recipe?
Absolutely! You can use coconut cream or another dairy-free cream alternative if you prefer a non-dairy option.
What is the best way to cut brownies after they are baked?
For clean cuts, let your brownies cool completely before slicing. Use a sharp knife, and wipe it clean between cuts for neat edges.
How can I enhance the flavor of my Coffee Brownies?
Consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for texture, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer for an extra flavor boost!
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making these delightful Coffee Brownies! They’re not only easy to whip up but also provide a wonderful pick-me-up that everyone will love. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or sharing with friends, these brownies are sure to impress. Happy baking!
Coffee Brownies
Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of these Coffee Brownies! This delightful dessert combines the deep flavors of dark cocoa and espresso, creating a fudgy treat that’s perfect for coffee lovers. Topped with a luscious coffee frosting and a drizzle of melted dark chocolate, these brownies offer a café-quality experience right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re entertaining friends or treating yourself after a long day, these easy-to-make brownies are sure to impress. Plus, they can be baked ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Total Time: 48 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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
- 1 1/2 teaspoons instant coffee granules
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch pan with foil, spraying it with nonstick spray.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter and dark cocoa until smooth.
- In another bowl, beat granulated sugar, eggs, instant espresso powder, and vanilla until fluffy.
- Combine the chocolate mixture with the egg mixture until well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, stir salt, baking powder, and flour together before folding into the wet ingredients.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 25-28 minutes. Allow to cool completely.
- For frosting, combine heavy cream and instant coffee granules. Beat softened butter with salt; gradually add powdered sugar and coffee mixture until fluffy.
- Frost cooled brownies and drizzle with melted chocolate made from heating dark chocolate chips and heavy cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg