Espresso Brownies Recipe

If you’re a chocolate lover who also can’t get enough of that deep coffee flavor, this Espresso Brownies Recipe is about to become your new obsession! Imagine fudgy, dense brownies with a bold espresso twist—the kind of treat that makes every bite unforgettable. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: rich, intense chocolate and the warm embrace of espresso, all wrapped up in a perfectly chewy, homemade brownie. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a decadent pick-me-up, these brownies are guaranteed to wow your taste buds and impress everyone at the table.

Espresso Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Espresso Brownies Recipe lies in its simple, everyday ingredients—each one playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From luscious melted butter to a hit of instant espresso powder, you’ll find that every item brings something special to the party.

  • Unsalted Butter (1 cup, melted): Delivers that classic fudgy texture and rich flavor in every bite.
  • Granulated Sugar (1 ½ cups): Sweetens the brownies and helps to create a crackly top.
  • Brown Sugar (½ cup, packed): Adds a hint of molasses and extra moisture for chewiness.
  • Large Eggs (4): Bind everything together and give the brownies their structure.
  • Vanilla Extract (1 tablespoon): Enhances the chocolate and espresso flavors, adding warmth and depth.
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (¾ cup): Provides the backbone of chocolate flavor and that classic dark brownie color.
  • Instant Espresso Powder (1 tablespoon): Intensifies the chocolate and gives the brownies their signature coffee kick.
  • All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): Just enough to hold the brownies together without making them cakey.
  • Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
  • Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1 cup): Melty pockets of chocolate in every bite—need I say more?

How to Make Espresso Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting it hang over the edges so you can easily lift the brownies out later. This simple step keeps your brownies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Whisk Together Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture looks smooth and glossy. This blend is the secret to getting those shiny tops and dense, fudgy centers everyone craves in an Espresso Brownies Recipe.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract to your bowl. Whisk until everything is fully combined and the batter starts to thicken slightly. This step creates that rich, luscious texture you want in every bite.

Step 4: Mix in Cocoa, Espresso, and Salt

Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder, instant espresso powder, and salt until you have a dark, fragrant mixture. The espresso powder is what sets this Espresso Brownies Recipe apart, giving it an irresistible mocha flavor that makes these brownies stand out.

Step 5: Fold in the Flour

Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, mixing just until you no longer see streaks. Overmixing can make brownies tough, so stop as soon as the flour disappears into the chocolatey batter.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips

Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips for that extra melty, gooey goodness. Every bite will have pockets of chocolate that melt in your mouth—pure bliss!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. This timing ensures your Espresso Brownies Recipe turns out perfectly fudgy, not dry.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and slicing into squares. This patience pays off with clean-cut brownies and a texture that holds together beautifully.

How to Serve Espresso Brownies Recipe

Espresso Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Dress up your Espresso Brownies Recipe with a light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to enhance the flavors. For an extra coffee kick, try a tiny pinch of espresso powder on top right before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a small bowl of fresh berries. The cold, creamy sides contrast beautifully with the rich, dense brownies, making every bite feel special.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your brownies into fun shapes with cookie cutters or layer them in parfait glasses with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. For parties, try serving them as brownie bites in mini cupcake liners or stack them on a dessert board with fruit and nuts for a coffeehouse-inspired spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Espresso Brownies Recipe fresh by storing leftover squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen as they sit, making each day’s treat even more delicious.

Freezing

These brownies freeze beautifully! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to three months—just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge.

Reheating

If you love warm brownies, pop a square in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. The chocolate chips get gooey again, and the espresso aroma fills the air—like fresh-baked magic in moments!

FAQs

Can I use brewed espresso instead of instant espresso powder?

Instant espresso powder is highly concentrated and dry, so it delivers a stronger coffee flavor without adding extra liquid. If you use brewed espresso, the batter might become too runny and dilute the flavors, so stick to the powder for this Espresso Brownies Recipe.

How do I know when my brownies are done baking?

Check your brownies at the 28-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. You want a few moist crumbs clinging to it—if it comes out wet, give it a few more minutes; if it’s clean, you may have overbaked them a bit. Fudgy is always better than dry!

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even a swirl of caramel can take your Espresso Brownies Recipe to the next level. Just fold them in with the chocolate chips before baking.

Is it okay to double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake in two pans, or use a large sheet pan if you have one. Just watch the baking time—you may need to add a few minutes for thicker brownies, but keep an eye out for those moist crumbs in the center.

Can I make this Espresso Brownies Recipe gluten-free?

Sure thing! Simply substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The brownies should still come out fudgy and delicious, so everyone can enjoy them.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sharing a pan of homemade brownies, especially when the recipe is this bold and unforgettable. I hope you give this Espresso Brownies Recipe a try and discover just how much joy a little coffee and chocolate can bring to your day. Happy baking!

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Espresso Brownies Recipe

Espresso Brownies Recipe


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4.6 from 10 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 16 brownies 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Espresso Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate with a bold espresso kick for a decadent dessert that coffee and chocolate lovers will adore. Made with melted butter, cocoa powder, and instant espresso powder, these brownies deliver a moist, tender texture with deep coffee undertones, enhanced by gooey semi-sweet chocolate chips throughout. Perfect for an indulgent treat or serving at gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Sugar

  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar (packed)

Dry Ingredients

  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Add-ins

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
  2. Mix Sugars and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined, setting the base for rich, fudgy brownies.
  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, whisking thoroughly until the batter is fully blended and has slightly thickened to improve texture.
  4. Incorporate Cocoa and Espresso: Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder, instant espresso powder, and salt until uniformly distributed, which imparts the chocolate and coffee flavors.
  5. Fold in Flour: Gently fold the all-purpose flour into the mixture just until combined to avoid overmixing, which keeps your brownies tender.
  6. Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips to introduce pockets of melty chocolate throughout the brownies.
  7. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the lined pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
  8. Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into 16 squares to ensure they hold their shape and have the perfect fudgy texture.

Notes

  • For a stronger espresso flavor, you can increase the espresso powder to 1 ½ tablespoons.
  • Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days for optimal freshness.
  • You can freeze the brownies for extended storage; thaw at room temperature before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 brownie
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 110mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

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