If you adore the rich, comforting flavors of coffee and chocolate mingling in a dessert, then this Coffee Brownies with Mocha Frosting Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine biting into dense, fudgy brownies infused with a subtle coffee kick, topped with a creamy mocha frosting that pulls everything together in a luscious harmony of flavors. This recipe is a celebration of bold ingredients that complement each other perfectly, creating a treat that’s perfect for sharing or indulging solo with your favorite cup of joe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might look simple, but each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect texture and flavor of your brownies and mocha frosting. From the smooth melted butter to the intense espresso powder, every component contributes to a dessert that tastes like it was made by a pro.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup melted for brownies, 2 tablespoons softened for frosting): Adds rich moisture and creamy texture to both the brownies and frosting.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the brownies and helps create that classic fudgy crumb.
- Large eggs (2): Essential for binding the ingredients and lending structure without making the brownies cakey.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon for brownies, 1/2 teaspoon for frosting): Enhances the depth of flavors with its warm, aromatic notes.
- Instant coffee or espresso powder (1 tablespoon for brownies, 1 teaspoon for frosting): Infuses a bold coffee essence that brightens the chocolate and deepens its complexity.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/3 cup for brownies, 1 tablespoon for frosting): Brings intense chocolate flavor and dark color to the entire dessert.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Provides just enough structure for fudgy brownies without drying them out.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a slight lift to the brownies, keeping them tender yet moist.
- Powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the mocha frosting for a perfect spreadable consistency.
- Milk or heavy cream (2–3 tablespoons): Adjusts the moisture level in the frosting, making it silky and smooth.
How to Make Coffee Brownies with Mocha Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. It’s important to grease an 8×8-inch baking pan lightly or line it with parchment paper to ensure your brownies come out clean and intact, with perfect edges.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until they meld into a silky, inviting mixture. Then beat in the eggs, vanilla, and instant coffee powder until the batter turns smooth and glossy. This combination will create the foundation for your moist, flavorful brownies.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Stir in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined. You’ll notice the batter thickens up beautifully, becoming glossy and rich. This balance of ingredients ensures your brownies will be dense and fudgy, slightly chewy around the edges but soft inside.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan and slide it into the oven. Bake for 20 to 24 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. Avoid overbaking to keep the fudgy texture that makes these brownies irresistible. Let them cool completely before moving on to frosting.
Step 5: Whip Up the Mocha Frosting
Beat the softened butter until creamy, then mix in the cocoa powder and instant coffee powder until they’re fully incorporated. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with milk or cream by the tablespoon, until your frosting is smooth and easily spreadable. Finish by stirring in vanilla extract for that fragrant touch.
Step 6: Frost and Serve
Once your brownies have cooled completely, spread the mocha frosting generously over the top. The luscious contrast of the creamy frosting and fudgy brownies will make your taste buds sing. Slice into squares and get ready to savor every decadent bite!
How to Serve Coffee Brownies with Mocha Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of finely chopped dark chocolate, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even a few coffee beans on top can elevate the presentation and add texture to your brownies. Fresh mint leaves also complement the mocha flavor, adding a pop of color and refreshing aroma.
Side Dishes
These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For those who love extra coffee intensity, a side of espresso or a chilled coffee-infused dessert sauce can create a harmonious dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your brownies into an elegant dessert by cutting them into bite-sized squares and placing them on a decorative platter with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. Alternatively, layer chunks of these brownies with whipped cream and fresh berries in a glass for a delightful mocha brownie parfait.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their fudgy texture and moist frosting. If you prefer firmer frosting, storing them in the fridge works well too, just allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezing
You can freeze these brownies either frosted or unfrosted. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. Frozen brownies last up to 2 months, so you can enjoy your Coffee Brownies with Mocha Frosting Recipe anytime cravings strike.
Reheating
To revive the fresh-baked feel, warm individual brownies in the microwave for about 15 seconds. This softens the frosting slightly and enhances the gooey texture inside, creating that just-baked sensation in moments.
FAQs
Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of instant coffee powder in this Coffee Brownies with Mocha Frosting Recipe?
Instant coffee or espresso powder is best because it dissolves completely without adding extra liquid to the batter or frosting. Brewed coffee could alter the texture by adding moisture, so if you only have brewed coffee, reduce other liquids accordingly for the best results.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to maintain the fudgy texture that makes these brownies so divine.
How strong is the coffee flavor in these brownies?
The coffee flavor is present but subtle, designed to enhance and deepen the chocolate notes rather than overwhelm. If you’re a coffee lover craving more punch, feel free to increase the amount of instant coffee in both the batter and frosting to suit your taste.
Can I make the mocha frosting dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the butter for a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and use a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or oat milk. This will give you a delicious mocha frosting that fits your dietary needs without losing flavor or texture.
Why do the brownies need to cool completely before frosting?
Frosting warm brownies can cause it to melt and slide off, making a mess and losing that beautiful mocha frosting texture. Waiting until the brownies are fully cooled ensures the frosting sets perfectly and spreads smoothly.
Final Thoughts
I simply cannot recommend this Coffee Brownies with Mocha Frosting Recipe enough. It’s a delightful way to bring together two beloved flavors—coffee and chocolate—in a dessert that feels both indulgent and approachable. Whether for a cozy afternoon treat or a special occasion, these brownies are sure to bring smiles and requests for seconds. So grab your ingredients and start baking today—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Coffee Brownies with Mocha Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 24 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9–12 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these rich and fudgy Coffee Brownies with Mocha Frosting, combining the bold flavors of espresso with decadent chocolate. Perfectly moist and topped with a creamy mocha frosting, these brownies are an irresistible treat for coffee and chocolate lovers alike.
Ingredients
For the brownies:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee or espresso powder
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the mocha frosting:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee or espresso powder
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until fully combined and smooth. Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and instant coffee or espresso powder until the mixture is uniform.
- Add dry ingredients: Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder into the wet ingredients. Mix until the batter is thick, glossy, and fully incorporated without any flour streaks.
- Bake the brownies: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 20–24 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, indicating fudgy texture. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare mocha frosting: Beat the softened butter in a separate bowl until creamy. Add the unsweetened cocoa powder and instant coffee or espresso powder and mix well. Gradually add the powdered sugar alternating with 1 tablespoon of milk or heavy cream at a time, stirring until the frosting reaches a smooth and spreadable consistency. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Frost and serve: Spread the mocha frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Using a sharp knife, slice into 9 to 12 squares and serve. Enjoy this perfect balance of coffee and chocolate!
Notes
- For a stronger coffee flavor, increase the amount of instant coffee or espresso powder used in both the batter and frosting.
- Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Refrigerate the brownies if you prefer a firmer texture; bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
