Frosted Coffee Brownies are a rich and indulgent dessert that combines fudgy chocolate brownies with a creamy coffee-infused frosting. The bold coffee flavor enhances the chocolate in the brownies and adds a smooth, grown-up touch to this classic treat.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it takes regular brownies to the next level. The combination of coffee and chocolate is always a winner for me, and the creamy frosting adds an extra layer of decadence. These brownies are perfect for dessert, coffee breaks, or anytime I want to treat myself (or impress a crowd).
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the brownies:
- Unsalted butter
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Instant coffee granules or espresso powder
For the frosting:
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Powdered sugar
- Instant coffee granules or espresso powder
- Heavy cream or milk
- Vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). I line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- Make the brownie batter: I melt the butter, then stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. In a separate bowl, I whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, salt, and coffee granules.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients until fully mixed, then pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. I let the brownies cool completely before frosting.
- Make the frosting: I dissolve the coffee granules in a bit of warm cream or milk. Then I beat the softened butter until fluffy, gradually mix in the powdered sugar, and add the coffee mixture and vanilla. I beat until creamy and spreadable.
- Frost the brownies: Once the brownies are cool, I spread the frosting evenly over the top, then cut into squares and serve.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 16 brownies.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: About 45 minutes
Variations
- Extra chocolate: I sometimes stir in chocolate chips to the batter for double the chocolate.
- Nutty twist: Chopped walnuts or pecans add great texture and a little crunch.
- Mocha version: I use a chocolate frosting with a hint of coffee for a mocha-flavored finish.
Storage and Reheating
I store these brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 3 months—just wrap them tightly and thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant granules?
Yes, I can use strong brewed coffee, but I make sure to reduce other liquid slightly to keep the texture of the frosting right.
Can I skip the frosting?
Of course. The brownies are still rich and flavorful on their own, but the frosting adds a really nice touch.
How do I make the brownies more fudgy?
To make them extra fudgy, I reduce the flour slightly and don’t overbake them. I also let them cool completely before cutting.
What’s the best way to cut the brownies neatly?
I chill the frosted brownies for 20–30 minutes, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts to get clean edges.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, I substitute the flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Frosted Coffee Brownies are one of my favorite ways to enjoy a rich chocolate dessert with a little sophistication. They’re simple to make, pack a ton of flavor, and always get rave reviews. Whether I’m baking for friends or just treating myself, this recipe never disappoints.
Frosted Coffee Brownies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Frosted Coffee Brownies are rich, fudgy chocolate brownies topped with a creamy coffee-infused frosting. The perfect balance of deep cocoa flavor and bold coffee notes, this indulgent treat is a favorite for dessert, coffee breaks, or entertaining.
Ingredients
- For the brownies:
- Unsalted butter
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Instant coffee granules or espresso powder
- For the frosting:
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Powdered sugar
- Instant coffee granules or espresso powder
- Heavy cream or milk
- Vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment or grease lightly.
- Melt butter, then stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, salt, and coffee granules.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients. Pour into prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Cool completely.
- Dissolve coffee granules in a bit of warm cream or milk.
- Beat softened butter until fluffy, gradually add powdered sugar, then coffee mixture and vanilla. Beat until smooth.
- Spread frosting over cooled brownies. Slice and serve.
Notes
- Add chocolate chips for extra richness.
- Stir in chopped nuts for added texture.
- Use a mocha frosting variation for a chocolate-coffee twist.
- Chill before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Sub gluten-free 1:1 flour blend to make it gluten-free.
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