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A decadent tray of frosted coffee brownies with glossy mocha frosting, cut into squares and garnished with chocolate shavings and espresso beans.

Coffee Brownies Recipe – Fudgy Chocolate Dessert with Mocha Frosting

These Frosted Coffee Brownies are a chocolate lover’s dream with a bold espresso twist! Fudgy, rich brownies are infused with brewed coffee for depth and topped with a silky mocha frosting that melts in your mouth. Perfect for dessert tables, potlucks, or an afternoon pick-me-up. Easy to make and packed with flavor, these brownies combine the best of chocolate and coffee in every bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Brunch Treat, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American / Café-style
Servings 9 squares (8x8-inch pan)
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • 8x8 inch baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

Brownie Base

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ tsp salt

Coffee Frosting

  • 1½ cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tsp instant espresso powder
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2–3 tbsp milk or cream
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

Optional Add-ins

  • ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts
  • ½ tsp coffee extract
  • Pinch of cinnamon or cardamom
  • Flaky sea salt for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare Brownie Batter

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment.In a bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth.

Add Dry Ingredients

  • Stir in cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Fold in chocolate chips or nuts if using.

Bake Brownies

  • Pour batter into pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20–25 minutes until edges are set and center is slightly soft. Cool completely.

Make Frosting

  • Beat softened butter with powdered sugar, espresso powder, vanilla, and 2 tbsp milk. Add more milk as needed for a fluffy, spreadable consistency.

Frost & Chill

  • Spread frosting over cooled brownies. Chill for 15–20 minutes to set.

Slice & Serve

  • Cut into squares. Serve with coffee, milk, or ice cream.

Notes

  • Use room temperature eggs for a smoother batter.
  • Don’t overmix—stir until just combined.
  • For fudgier brownies, reduce flour slightly and avoid overbaking.
  • Use instant espresso powder for bold coffee flavor.
  • Frost just before serving if freezing brownies ahead.
  • Store in airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze unfrosted brownies for up to 2 months.
Keyword chocolate coffee bars, Coffee brownies, espresso frosting, fudgy brownies, mocha dessert