Name: Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 stick unsalted butter (1/2 cup); 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; 1 1/2 teaspoons instant coffee granules; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/3 cup unsalted butter (approx. 5 tablespoons)

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

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

For the Coffee Frosting:

1/3 cup unsalted butter

2 cups powdered sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons 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 by coating it with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper, then lightly spray the paper.

Step 2: Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl, then transfer it to a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the melted butter, stirring until fully combined.

Step 4: Gradually mix in the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder until the batter is smooth and evenly combined.

Step 5: 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.

Step 6: Let the brownies cool completely before frosting.

Step 7: For the frosting, dissolve the instant coffee granules in the heavy whipping cream and set aside.

Step 8: Beat the unsalted butter in a separate bowl until light and fluffy, then gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing.

Step 9: Slowly pour in 2 tablespoons of the coffee-infused cream, mixing until smooth. 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 espresso powder instead of instant coffee granules for a stronger coffee flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.

For a lighter frosting, start with 2 tablespoons of cream and gradually add more as needed to achieve the perfect texture.

Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the brownie batter before baking for added texture and richness.

Storage

Store the frosted brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to one week. For longer storage, wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly before serving.

FAQs

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

It’s best to use coffee extract or instant coffee granules as they provide concentrated flavor without adding extra liquid that could affect the brownie texture.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the brownies are done. Avoid overbaking to keep them moist and chewy.