There’s something incredibly comforting about baking brownies, especially when they’re frosted and infused with coffee. I remember the first time I made these frosted coffee brownies; I was in my cozy kitchen in Morocco, dust from the souk still on my hands after shopping for fresh spices. It was a rainy afternoon, and I thought, “What could be better than a sweet treat to brighten up the day?” A few mishaps later like dropping an egg on the floor I finally pulled these gooey, chocolatey delights from the oven. Each bite transports me to a café in the heart of Marrakech, where coffee and conversation flow freely.
What Makes This So Good
- Rich Flavor: The cocoa and coffee create a deep, rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Frosted Perfection: The creamy coffee frosting adds a decadent touch.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Brownies
- 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup (40 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 stick (1/2 cup or 115 g) unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons coffee extract (or 1 tablespoon instant coffee)
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Coffee Frosting
- 2-4 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- 1 1/2 teaspoons instant coffee granules
- 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup (75 g) unsalted butter
Smart Swaps
- Whole Wheat Flour: For a healthier option, substitute with whole wheat flour.
- Brown Sugar: Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Swap out the butter for coconut oil and use a non-dairy cream for the frosting.
Directions
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, followed by a light spray of non-stick spray.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave. Once melted, transfer the butter to a large mixing bowl.
To the bowl with the butter, add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is thoroughly blended.
Gradually add the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder to the wet ingredients, and mix until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and place it in the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the brownies to cool completely before starting on the frosting.
For the frosting, dissolve the instant coffee granules in the heavy whipping cream and set aside.
In a separate bowl, beat the unsalted butter until it becomes light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully combined.
Slowly pour in 2 tablespoons of the coffee-infused cream and mix well. If needed, continue adding more cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your preferred consistency.
Once the frosting is ready, generously spread it over the cooled brownies. Slice and serve to enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the brownies a day in advance. Just frost them the next day for a fresh layer.
- Transport: These brownies are great for taking to gatherings; just use a secure container to prevent them from falling apart.
- Re-Crisping: If the brownies seem too soft, you can pop them back in the oven for a few minutes to firm up (keep an eye on them!).
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for a crunchy texture.
- Minty Fresh: Incorporate some peppermint extract into the frosting for a refreshing twist.
- Spiced Up: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm spice flavor.
Serving Ideas
These brownies are delicious on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them warm, just pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute melted coconut oil for the butter, but the texture may vary slightly.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs—this means they are fudgy and perfect!
Can I freeze these brownies?
Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.
Frosted Coffee Brownies
Indulge in these rich and fudgy frosted coffee brownies, perfect for any coffee lover!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup (40 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 stick (1/2 cup or 115 g) unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons coffee extract (or 1 tablespoon instant coffee)
- 1 cup (200 g) 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 (240 g) powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup (75 g) unsalted butter
Instructions
- 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, followed by a light spray of non-stick spray.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave. Once melted, transfer the butter to a large mixing bowl.
- To the bowl with the butter, add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is thoroughly blended.
- Gradually add the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder to the wet ingredients, and mix until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and place it in the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before starting on the frosting.
- For the frosting, dissolve the instant coffee granules in the heavy whipping cream and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, beat the unsalted butter until it becomes light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully combined.
- Slowly pour in 2 tablespoons of the coffee-infused cream and mix well. If needed, continue adding more cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your preferred consistency.
- Once the frosting is ready, generously spread it over the cooled brownies. Slice and serve to enjoy!
Notes
These brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian