There is something utterly irresistible about combining the rich depth of coffee with the fudgy delight of brownies, and that’s exactly what you get with this Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe. These brownies boast a perfectly moist, chocolatey base infused with a warm, espresso kick, topped off with a luxuriously creamy coffee frosting that’s both smooth and indulgent. Whether you’re craving a mid-afternoon pick-me-up or a sweet ending to dinner, this recipe hits all the right notes to satisfy your dessert desires.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe is carefully selected to create that perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the richness of butter to the punch of coffee extract, every element plays an essential role in bringing this classic treat to life.
- Unsalted butter (1 stick): This adds a creamy, rich base and keeps the brownies moist and tender.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the batter and helps create that delightful chewy texture.
- Large eggs (2): Provide structure and richness, helping the brownies hold together perfectly.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor profile with subtle warmth and depth.
- Coffee extract (2 tsp) or instant coffee (1 tbsp): Infuses the brownies with that signature coffee punch that makes this recipe stand out.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/3 cup): Delivers a deep chocolate flavor without overpowering the coffee notes.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Provides just enough structure without making the brownies cakey.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances out the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Baking powder (1/4 tsp): Gives the brownies a slight lift so they aren’t too dense.
- Instant coffee granules (1½ tsp): Used in the frosting to intensify the coffee flavor without bitterness.
- Heavy whipping cream (2–4 tbsp): Adjustable to achieve a spreadable frosting consistency that’s silky smooth.
- Unsalted butter (1/3 cup for frosting): Softened butter creates a luscious, creamy backdrop for the frosting.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting, giving it that classic smooth finish.
How to Make Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brownies bake evenly from the moment they hit the oven. Grease or line an 8×8 baking dish to prevent sticking, making sure your beautiful brownies will come out cleanly and look picture-perfect.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Mix Wet Ingredients
Melt the butter gently, either on the stovetop or in the microwave. Once melted, stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and coffee extract or instant coffee. This combination creates a silky, rich batter foundation that gets all the flavors mingling beautifully.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Next, sift together the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold this into your wet mixture until just combined. It’s important not to overmix here to keep the brownies dense and fudgy, not cakey.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs but not wet batter. Let the brownies cool completely before frosting to ensure that luscious topping stays nicely set on top.
Step 5: Prepare the Frosting
Start by dissolving the instant coffee granules in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream—this creates a bold coffee-infused base for your frosting. Beat the softened butter with this coffee cream mixture and powdered sugar until it becomes fluffy and smooth. Add additional cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired spreadable consistency.
Step 6: Frost and Enjoy
Once the brownies have cooled fully, generously frost them with the coffee frosting. Use a spatula to smooth it over or create swirls for a beautiful finish. Cut into squares and prepare for the heavenly bite of fudgy richness and creamy coffee goodness!
How to Serve Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of cocoa powder or finely chopped chocolate on top adds a touch of elegance and enhances the chocolate intensity. For a little crunch, you could even add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans right before serving—this creates a delightful contrast to the silky frosting.
Side Dishes
Pairing Frosted Coffee Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream turns an already indulgent treat into a showstopper. For coffee lovers, serving these brownies alongside a robust espresso or cappuccino doubles the coffee flavor experience perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or special occasion, stack the brownies in mini layers separated by frosting for a mini cake effect. Alternatively, cut brownies into bite-sized squares and serve them on a platter with coffee-infused chocolate drizzle for a gorgeous coffee-themed dessert display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (and honestly, why wouldn’t you?), keep your Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the frosting creamy and the brownie moist without drying out.
Freezing
Want to save your brownies for later? Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and place in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and taste.
Reheating
If you like your brownies slightly warm, gently reheat an individual slice in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. This softens the frosting slightly and makes the chocolate even more decadent without melting the frosting completely.
FAQs
Can I use brewed coffee instead of coffee extract or instant coffee?
Yes, brewed coffee can work, but you’ll want to reduce other liquids in the recipe slightly to maintain the right texture. Instant coffee or coffee extract gives you a more concentrated flavor without extra moisture, which is ideal for these brownies.
What if I don’t have heavy whipping cream for the frosting?
You can substitute with whole milk or half-and-half, though the frosting may be a bit less rich. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream works wonderfully and adds a subtle fruity note.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, and be sure to check that your cocoa powder and other ingredients are certified gluten-free to avoid any surprises.
How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center – if it comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter, your brownies are ready. The key is to avoid overbaking so they remain fudgy inside.
Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter?
Definitely! Toss in about ½ cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. Just fold them in during the mixing of the dry ingredients to keep them evenly distributed.
Final Thoughts
If you love a dessert that brings together the buzz of coffee and the comfort of chocolate, this Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe should definitely be on your baking list. It’s simple enough for a weekday treat yet impressive enough to serve guests. Give it a try, and you just might discover your new favorite indulgence that’s as comforting as your morning cup of joe.
Print
Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Frosted Coffee Brownies combine rich chocolate and bold coffee flavors to create a decadent treat perfect for coffee lovers. Soft and fudgy brownies are topped with a creamy coffee-infused frosting, making them an indulgent dessert or snack.
Ingredients
Brownies
- 1 stick unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp coffee extract or 1 tbsp instant coffee
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
Frosting
- 1½ tsp instant coffee granules
- 2–4 tbsp heavy whipping cream
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- Melt butter and mix wet ingredients: Melt the 1 stick of unsalted butter in a saucepan or microwave. Once melted, stir in the granulated sugar, followed by the eggs, vanilla extract, and coffee extract or instant coffee until fully combined.
- Add dry ingredients: Sift and mix in the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which keeps the brownies tender.
- Bake the brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes in the preheated oven. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely before frosting.
- Dissolve coffee for frosting: In a small bowl, dissolve the instant coffee granules in 2 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream to create a strong coffee flavor for the frosting.
- Make the frosting: Beat the softened butter with the coffee mixture and powdered sugar until the frosting is light and fluffy. Add additional heavy cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency for spreading.
- Frost the brownies: Generously spread the coffee frosting over the cooled brownies using a spatula or knife. Once frosted, cut into 9 square pieces for serving and enjoy!
Notes
- For a stronger coffee flavor, you can increase the amount of instant coffee in both the batter and frosting.
- Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting or sliding of the frosting layer.
- Use room temperature butter for the frosting to achieve a smooth texture.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
