Introduction

These Frosted Coffee Brownies combine rich chocolate with a hint of bold coffee flavor, creating a deliciously decadent treat. Perfect for coffee lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike, they offer a moist, fudgy texture topped with a creamy coffee frosting.

Three square pieces of chocolate cake with one thick layer of light brown frosting on top, sitting close together on a white plate. The cake layers are dark brown with a soft, moist texture, and the frosting is smooth with slight swirls and a creamy look. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface with a soft blur in the background, showing hints of a white cup and a basket. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 stick unsalted butter
2 teaspoons coffee extract or 1 tablespoon instant coffee
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2-4 tablespoons heavy whipping cream (for frosting)
1 1/2 teaspoons instant coffee granules (for frosting)
2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
1/3 cup unsalted butter (for frosting)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8-inch baking dish by coating it with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper, then lightly spray the parchment.
Step 2: Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the melted butter and stir until thoroughly blended.
Step 4: Gradually add the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder to the wet ingredients, mixing until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
Step 5: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Allow the brownies to cool completely before frosting.
Step 7: To make the frosting, dissolve the instant coffee granules in the heavy whipping cream and set aside.
Step 8: Beat the unsalted butter until light and fluffy in a separate bowl, then gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until combined.
Step 9: Slowly pour in 2 tablespoons of the coffee-infused cream and mix well. Add more cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed to reach your preferred frosting consistency.
Step 10: Spread the frosting generously over the cooled brownies. Slice and serve.

Tips & Variations

Use brewed strong coffee instead of instant coffee for a more intense flavor.
For a mocha twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder to the brownie batter.
Try mixing in chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra texture.
Substitute the heavy cream in the frosting with milk if you prefer a lighter topping.

Storage

Store the frosted brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to one week. Allow refrigerated brownies to come to room temperature before serving or warm briefly to soften the frosting.

How to Serve

The image shows three pieces of a layered dessert on a dark brown wooden surface with a white marbled texture. Each piece is square-shaped and sits on a small white napkin. The dessert has three layers: the bottom layer is dark brown and looks moist and dense, the middle layer is light beige and creamy, and the top layer is a smooth, glossy dark chocolate brown. The edges are clean and sharp, showing the clear division between each layer. The background is blurred, focusing on the dessert pieces. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can substitute brewed coffee for coffee extract or instant coffee. Use about 1 tablespoon of strong brewed coffee in the batter and adjust the frosting’s coffee intensity to taste.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter, the brownies are done. Overbaking can dry them out, so check near the 30-minute mark.