Name: Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 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 (8 tablespoons) 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; 1 1/2 teaspoons instant coffee granules; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/3 cup unsalted butter

Jump to Recipe

If you adore the rich, decadent taste of chocolate combined with a bold coffee kick, then these Frosted Coffee Brownies are about to become your new favorite treat. Imagine biting into a moist, fudgy brownie that’s perfectly balanced with a delicate coffee flavor in every bite, topped with a luscious, creamy coffee frosting that takes this classic dessert to an entirely new level. These Frosted Coffee Brownies are not only irresistible but also surprisingly easy to make, making them perfect for sharing with friends or indulging on a cozy afternoon.

Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things delightfully simple, with each ingredient playing a crucial role in creating the ideal texture, flavor, and look for your Frosted Coffee Brownies. From the rich cocoa powder that builds depth to the coffee extract that adds a subtle yet exciting twist, every component matters.

1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb to the brownies.
2 large eggs: Add moisture and help bind the ingredients together for that perfect fudgy texture.
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers the deep, chocolatey flavor essential to a great brownie.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and enriches the flavor profile.
1 stick unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture, contributing to the velvet-smooth brownie base.
2 teaspoons coffee extract or 1 tablespoon instant coffee: Infuses the brownies with a distinct coffee essence that makes these treats truly special.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies just right without overpowering the chocolate-coffee harmony.
1/4 teaspoon baking powder: Provides a slight lift, helping the brownies maintain a tender yet firm texture.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
2-4 tablespoons heavy whipping cream: Used in the frosting to create a silky, spreadable consistency.
1 1/2 teaspoons instant coffee granules: Packs a punch of coffee flavor into the frosting.
2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting for that perfect creamy topping.
1/3 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and fluffiness to the coffee frosting.

How to Make Frosted Coffee Brownies

Step 1: Prepare and Preheat

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This warming up ensures that your brownies bake evenly right from the start. Next, prepare an 8-inch baking dish by coating it with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper, which helps the brownies release easily once baked — no sticking, no stress.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Mix

Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl until just liquid, then transfer it to a large mixing bowl. To that buttery goodness, add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir these ingredients together thoroughly — this is where the base of your brownie’s moist texture starts forming.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate space, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Slowly add this dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring until the batter is smooth and fully combined without overmixing. The coffee extract or instant coffee added here is your secret weapon, infusing a subtle richness that elevates every bite.

Step 4: Bake the Brownies

Pour the smooth batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly using a spatula. Slide it into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You want to watch for that classic test — insert a toothpick in the center, and if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, your brownies are perfectly baked.

Step 5: Cool and Frost

Let the brownies cool completely before frosting—patience here makes all the difference. To make the coffee frosting, dissolve the instant coffee granules in the heavy whipping cream. Then, beat the unsalted butter until light and fluffy before gradually incorporating the powdered sugar. Slowly add your coffee-infused cream, tablespoon by tablespoon, until the frosting reaches a luxuriously spreadable texture.

Step 6: Spread and Serve

Generously spread your creamy coffee frosting over the cooled brownies for that irresistible finish. Slice into squares, serve, and prepare to receive countless compliments and happy sighs from everyone lucky enough to take a bite!

How to Serve Frosted Coffee Brownies

Garnishes

If you want to take your Frosted Coffee Brownies up a notch, try dusting the top with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or finely grated dark chocolate for extra depth. A few coffee beans placed artfully on each frosted piece also add a charming, aromatic touch that makes each serving feel like a special occasion.

Side Dishes

These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, balancing the strong coffee flavor with creamy smoothness. Alternatively, serve alongside a hot cup of espresso or cappuccino to fully embrace the coffee theme and enhance the overall experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, arrange the Frosted Coffee Brownies on a rustic wooden board with assorted nuts and small bowls of coffee sauce for dipping. Another idea is to cut them into bite-sized squares and serve with colorful toothpicks at your next gathering — it’s a crowd-pleaser and totally Instagram-worthy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Frosted Coffee Brownies stay fresh when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed preserves the fudgy texture and the rich, creamy frosting without drying out or becoming overly sticky.

Freezing

You can freeze these brownies either frosted or unfrosted. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil, placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before bringing to room temperature to enjoy.

Reheating

If you fancy a warm brownie, gently heat a slice in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. This melting moment slightly softens the frosting and intensifies the flavors, mimicking that just-baked sensation without compromising the integrity of your Frosted Coffee Brownies.

FAQs

Can I substitute regular coffee for the coffee extract?

Yes! If you don’t have coffee extract, brewed strong coffee or espresso can work as a substitute. Just slightly reduce the liquid elsewhere in the recipe to keep the brownies’ texture perfect.

How can I make these brownies vegan?

To make dairy-free and vegan Frosted Coffee Brownies, swap butter for a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of regular eggs. Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for the frosting.

Is instant coffee necessary in the frosting?

Instant coffee granules are preferred for the frosting because they dissolve quickly and deliver an intense coffee flavor without grit. If you don’t have instant coffee, espresso powder is a suitable alternative.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder?

Using melted dark chocolate will change the texture and density slightly, making the brownies richer and fudgier, but it’s absolutely possible. You might want to reduce the butter a bit if using chocolate to maintain balance.

What’s the best way to cut the brownies without ruining the frosting?

A sharp, hot knife is your best friend here. Warm the blade under hot water and wipe it dry before slicing to get clean, neat cuts without dragging or smudging the frosting.

Final Thoughts

Making Frosted Coffee Brownies is like inviting a little moment of indulgence into your day, and trust me, they never disappoint. Whether for a celebration or a simple pick-me-up, these brownies deliver on both flavor and comfort. If you haven’t made them yet, I wholeheartedly encourage you to dive in and enjoy every chocolate-coffee infused bite — your taste buds will thank you!

Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 20 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 9 brownies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Deliciously rich and moist coffee-flavored brownies topped with a smooth and creamy coffee frosting, perfect for coffee lovers and chocolate enthusiasts.

Instructions

Prepare the baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat an 8-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper, then lightly spray the parchment to prevent sticking.
Melt the butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the stick of butter in the microwave. Transfer the melted butter to a large mixing bowl.
Mix wet ingredients: To the melted butter, add the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
Add dry ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder to the wet ingredients. Mix until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
Bake the brownies: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the brownies: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely before frosting.
Prepare the coffee frosting: Dissolve the instant coffee granules in 2 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream and set aside. In a separate bowl, beat the unsalted butter until light and fluffy, then gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fully combined.
Adjust frosting consistency: Slowly pour in the coffee-infused cream and mix well. Add additional heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, if needed to reach your preferred frosting consistency.
Frost the brownies: Generously spread the coffee frosting over the cooled brownies. Slice into squares and serve.

Notes

Ensure brownies are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
You can substitute coffee extract with instant coffee dissolved in a small amount of water.
Adjust the amount of coffee in the frosting to suit your taste preference for a stronger or milder coffee flavor.
Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean-up.
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American