Name: Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon coffee extract or 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules; 3-4 tablespoons heavy whipping cream

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon coffee extract or 1 teaspoon instant coffee

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 large eggs

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

For the coffee frosting:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

1 tablespoon instant coffee granules

2-4 tablespoons heavy whipping cream

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Melt the butter in the microwave, then transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until the batter is smooth. Add the coffee extract or instant coffee and mix well.

Step 4: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the brownies cool completely before frosting.

Step 5: To make the frosting, dissolve the instant coffee granules in the heavy whipping cream and set aside. Beat the softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well.

Step 6: Slowly pour in the coffee-infused cream and continue mixing until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled brownies.

Step 7: Slice the brownies into squares and serve. Enjoy your rich, coffee-flavored treat!

Tips & Variations

Use espresso powder instead of instant coffee granules for a deeper, stronger coffee flavor without overpowering the chocolate.

Adjust the amount of heavy cream in the frosting to achieve a lighter or thicker consistency, starting with 2 tablespoons and adding more as needed.

Fold in chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the brownie batter before baking to add texture and extra richness.

Storage

Store the frosted brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Before serving refrigerated brownies, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften. Reheat individual brownies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if you prefer them warm.

FAQs

Can I use brewed coffee instead of coffee extract or instant coffee?

It’s best to use coffee extract or instant coffee granules as they provide concentrated flavor without adding extra liquid, which could affect the brownie texture. If you want to use brewed coffee, reduce other liquids slightly.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking, keeping the same quantity. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder for best results.