Frosted Coffee Brownies offer a delightful twist on traditional brownies by infusing them with the rich and bold flavor of coffee. These brownies are soft, fudgy, and topped with a creamy coffee-infused frosting that adds a layer of indulgence. Perfect for coffee lovers or anyone who enjoys a decadent treat, these brownies are ideal for any occasion, from afternoon snacks to evening desserts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Coffee and chocolate pairing: The combination of rich chocolate and coffee enhances the flavors, creating an irresistible treat.

• Fudgy texture: These brownies are incredibly moist and fudgy, making every bite melt in your mouth.

• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these brownies are easy to prepare and come together quickly.

• Decadent frosting: The coffee frosting is smooth, creamy, and the perfect complement to the dense brownie base.

• Versatile: Serve them at a party, bring them to a potluck, or simply enjoy a slice with your favorite coffee.

Ingredients

For the brownies:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules (optional but recommended for extra coffee flavor)

• ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips (optional for extra richness)

For the coffee frosting:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoons brewed coffee (cooled)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (optional, for a mocha-flavored frosting)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Brownies:

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Whisk until smooth, then add the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and instant coffee granules.

4. Combine wet and dry: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

5. Add chocolate chips: If using, fold in the semisweet chocolate chips for added richness.

6. Bake: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).

7. Cool: Let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.

For the Coffee Frosting:

1. Cream the butter: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.

2. Add the powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth.

3. Add coffee and vanilla: Mix in the brewed coffee, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder (if using). Continue to beat until the frosting is creamy and smooth.

4. Frost the brownies: Once the brownies have cooled, spread the coffee frosting evenly over the top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 9-12 brownies, depending on how you cut them.

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Baking time: 20-25 minutes

• Cooling time: 30 minutes (for brownies to cool before frosting)

• Frosting time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Espresso frosting: For a stronger coffee flavor, substitute the brewed coffee with espresso or instant espresso powder.

• Mocha frosting: Add a bit more cocoa powder to the frosting for a rich mocha flavor that pairs beautifully with the coffee.

• Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for extra crunch.

• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free.

• Topping ideas: Sprinkle a little extra instant coffee powder or shaved chocolate on top of the frosting for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the frosted brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days.

• Reheating: To enjoy them warm, microwave individual brownies for 10-15 seconds, or heat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use decaffeinated coffee in these brownies?

Yes, you can use decaffeinated coffee if you prefer a milder coffee flavor or if you’re sensitive to caffeine.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. If there’s wet batter on the toothpick, they need a few more minutes of baking.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the frosting ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and let it come to room temperature before spreading it on the brownies.

Can I skip the coffee in the brownies?

While the coffee enhances the flavor of the brownies, you can omit it. For a pure chocolate flavor, you can add a little extra cocoa powder instead.

Can I use coffee-flavored liqueur in the frosting?

Yes, you can use coffee-flavored liqueurs, like Kahlúa, for a boozy twist on the frosting. Adjust the amount of powdered sugar to account for the liquid.

Can I make these brownies without frosting?

Absolutely! The brownies are rich and delicious on their own, even without frosting. You can dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle them with melted chocolate if you prefer.

How do I make these brownies more coffee-flavored?

To intensify the coffee flavor, use espresso powder instead of instant coffee granules, or add more brewed coffee to the frosting.

Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, you can freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I make these brownies without eggs?

Yes, you can use an egg substitute like a flax egg or chia egg, though the texture may be slightly different.

Can I add chocolate chips to the frosting?

Yes, adding chocolate chips to the frosting will create a mocha flavor and extra richness.

Conclusion

Frosted Coffee Brownies are a decadent and delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of coffee and chocolate in a fudgy, melt-in-your-mouth brownie. Topped with a smooth, creamy coffee frosting, these brownies are perfect for coffee lovers and anyone looking for a delicious dessert. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee or on their own, they are sure to be a hit!

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