These espresso brownies are the perfect treat for coffee lovers. Rich, fudgy, and packed with the bold flavor of espresso, they’re a dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth, whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because. This easy recipe will give you a delicious, coffee-infused twist on the classic brownie.
Why We Love This espresso brownies
Espresso brownies bring together two of the best things in the dessert world—rich chocolate and bold coffee. Here’s why we can’t get enough of these delectable treats:
Made for Sharing: There’s something about the combination of chocolate and coffee that makes these brownies extra comforting. They’re perfect for sharing with family and friends over a cup of coffee, creating moments of connection and delicious enjoyment.
Perfect for Coffee Lovers: The addition of espresso powder gives these brownies a subtle coffee flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the chocolate. If you’re a fan of mocha-flavored desserts, these brownies will quickly become your go-to.
Fudgy & Moist Texture: The best brownies have that perfect balance between fudgy and chewy, and these do not disappoint. They’re thick, moist, and just the right amount of soft in the center, making every bite a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Quick and Easy to Make: No complicated steps or fancy ingredients here. With just a handful of simple pantry staples—like dark chocolate, espresso powder, and cocoa powder—you can whip up a batch in no time. Perfect for those days when you need a quick yet impressive dessert!
Versatile Dessert: Whether you’re baking for a party or just craving a sweet treat, these espresso brownies work for any occasion. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence, or enjoy them as is for a rich, satisfying bite of chocolatey goodness.
Ingredients for espresso brownies
Unsalted butter – Adds moisture and richness to your espresso brownies. You can use salted butter, just reduce the added salt.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the espresso brownies and helps create that soft, fudgy texture.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients and give structure. Use large eggs at room temperature.
Vanilla extract – Adds a warm flavor that balances the chocolate and coffee.
Unsweetened cocoa powder – Gives your espresso brownies a rich chocolate taste.
Espresso powder – Key ingredient that brings the bold coffee flavor. Use a good quality brand for the best result.
All-purpose flour – Gives structure without making the brownies dry. Don’t overmix.
Salt – Enhances the flavors in the espresso brownies without making them salty.
Dark chocolate – Adds depth and makes the brownies extra fudgy. Use at least 70% cocoa chocolate.
Instructions
Making these espresso brownies is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be indulging in rich, coffee-flavored brownies in no time:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Melt butter and chocolate in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
Whisk the sugar, eggs, and vanilla in a bowl until slightly fluffy.
Sift cocoa powder, espresso powder, flour, and salt into another bowl.
Mix the wet and dry ingredients together, then gently stir in the melted chocolate mix.
Pour into a greased 8×8-inch pan and bake for 20–25 minutes until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool fully before cutting.
Pro Tips
Want your espresso brownies to turn out perfectly every time? Here are a few pro tips to help you master this recipe and elevate the flavor and texture:
Use High-Quality Chocolate
The chocolate you choose can make or break your brownies. Opt for good-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa) for a rich, intense flavor. It’ll make all the difference in achieving that decadent, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Espresso Powder Matters
The espresso powder is what gives these brownies their bold, coffee-infused flavor. Make sure to use a high-quality espresso powder for the best results. If you’re in a pinch, instant coffee can be used as a substitute, but the espresso powder will provide a smoother, more refined coffee taste.
Don’t Overmix
When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough brownies. A few folds of the batter should be enough to create that perfect fudgy texture.
Check for Doneness Early
Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your brownies. Start checking around 20 minutes, and do the toothpick test—insert a toothpick into the center, and it should come out with just a few moist crumbs. If it comes out clean, they might be overbaked.
Cool Before Cutting
As tempting as it might be, don’t cut your brownies while they’re still hot. Allow them to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will give you clean, perfect slices without the brownies falling apart.
Add a Touch of Sea Salt
For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle a tiny bit of sea salt on top of the brownies right before baking or once they’re out of the oven. The salt enhances the chocolate and coffee flavors, giving the brownies a delicious contrast.
Variations
Espresso brownies are already a delicious treat on their own, but there are plenty of ways to customize them to suit your taste or special occasion. Here are a few variations to consider:
Add Nuts for Crunch
If you love a bit of texture in your brownies, try adding some chopped walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts to the batter. These nuts add a satisfying crunch and pair wonderfully with the rich chocolate and coffee flavors.
Swirl in Some Caramel
For an extra indulgent treat, swirl caramel sauce into the batter before baking. The caramel will melt into the brownies, creating pockets of sweetness that contrast beautifully with the espresso and chocolate.
Make It Minty
For a refreshing twist, add a few drops of mint extract to the batter or top the brownies with mint chocolate chips. The cool mint flavor complements the espresso and chocolate, creating a deliciously unique treat.
Top with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream
Take your espresso brownies to the next level by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold creaminess is a perfect contrast to the warm, fudgy brownies.
Serving Suggestions
These espresso brownies are a decadent treat that can be served in a variety of ways. Whether you’re enjoying them for a casual snack or serving them at a special gathering, here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your experience:
Pair with Coffee
Since these brownies are infused with espresso, they naturally pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or espresso. The bold flavors of both the brownie and the coffee complement each other beautifully for a satisfying dessert experience.
Serve with Ice Cream
A scoop of vanilla ice cream or coffee-flavored ice cream is a classic pairing. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of the ice cream balance out the rich, fudgy brownies, making each bite a little bit more indulgent.
Top with Fresh Berries
Add a burst of freshness to your espresso brownies by serving them with fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The slight tartness of the berries contrasts wonderfully with the deep chocolate and coffee flavors.
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FAQs about espresso brownies
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you make the most of your espresso brownies:
Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso powder?
While espresso powder gives a deeper, more intense flavor, you can substitute it with instant coffee or brewed strong coffee. Just keep in mind that the flavor won’t be as bold, but it will still add that wonderful coffee kick to your brownies.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure that both the cocoa powder and espresso powder are certified gluten-free. This will allow everyone to enjoy these rich, fudgy brownies without worrying about gluten.
How do I know when my brownies are done?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the brownies. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. If it comes out clean, your brownies might be overbaked. Start checking around the 20-minute mark to ensure you get the perfect fudgy texture.
Can I add more espresso for a stronger flavor?
Yes, you can increase the amount of espresso powder to suit your taste. However, be cautious, as too much espresso powder can overpower the chocolate flavor. Start with a small increase and test the batter for your desired strength.
espresso brownies
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup 115g unsalted butter
- 1 cup 200g granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup 25g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon of espresso powder
- 1/2 cup 60g all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 ounces 115g dark chocolate
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brownies bake evenly and get that perfect fudgy texture.
Melt the Butter and Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unsalted butter and dark chocolate. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. This will give your brownies a deep, rich chocolate flavor.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and slightly fluffy. This step helps to create the perfect texture.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In another bowl, sift together the unsweetened cocoa powder, espresso powder, all-purpose flour, and salt. Sifting will ensure no lumps in your brownies and a smoother texture.
Bring It All Together
- Slowly add the melted butter and chocolate mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring to combine. Then, gradually fold in the dry ingredients until everything is mixed together. Be careful not to overmix to keep the brownies nice and fudgy.
Bake the Brownies
- Pour the batter into a greased 8×8-inch baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The brownies should still be a little soft in the center.
Cool and Serve
- Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps set the texture so they don’t fall apart when you cut them.