Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe | Fudgy Chocolate Brownies with Espresso Frosting
These Frosted Coffee Brownies are a dreamy fusion of fudgy chocolate and bold espresso flavor. Made with rich cocoa, a hint of brewed coffee, and topped with a silky coffee-infused frosting, each bite delivers deep chocolate intensity with a subtle caffeine kick. Perfect for dessert lovers and coffee enthusiasts alike, these brownies are easy to make, freezer-friendly, and ideal for potlucks, parties, or a cozy afternoon treat.
Equipment
- 8x8 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Parchment paper
- Serrated knife (for clean cuts)
Ingredients
Brownie Base:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
Coffee Frosting:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp brewed coffee
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 tsp espresso powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper.
- Melt butter and stir in sugar, eggs, vanilla, and cooled coffee.
- Add cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Fold in optional add-ins if using.
- Pour batter into pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, until set.
- Cool completely in pan before frosting.
- For frosting: beat softened butter, powdered sugar, coffee, and vanilla until fluffy.
- Spread frosting evenly over cooled brownies.
- Chill for 15 minutes before slicing with a serrated knife.
Notes
- Use cooled coffee to avoid curdling the batter.
- Dutch-process cocoa gives a richer flavor.
- For gluten-free: use a 1:1 GF flour blend.
- For vegan: use plant-based butter, egg substitute, and dairy-free frosting.
- Store frosted brownies in an airtight container at room temp for 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5.
- Freeze unfrosted brownies for up to 2 months.
- Tip: Dust with cocoa or espresso powder for a café-style finish.