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Coffee Espresso Brownies with Rich Chocolate Ganache Recipe

4.7 from 102 reviews

Deliciously rich Coffee Brownies infused with espresso and topped with a smooth coffee buttercream and a shiny dark chocolate ganache. These decadent brownies offer the perfect balance of chocolate and coffee flavors, baked to fudgy perfection and finished with a creamy, flavorful frosting.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Base

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup dark cocoa powder
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon table salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 3/4 cup all purpose flour

Coffee Buttercream Frosting

  • 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons instant coffee granules
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 3/4 cup powdered sugar

Chocolate Ganache Topping

  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with foil and spray it with nonstick baking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Butter and Cocoa: In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter and dark cocoa powder until fully combined and smooth.
  3. Combine Sugar and Eggs: Using a mixer, beat together the granulated sugar, eggs, instant espresso powder, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, ensuring good aeration.
  4. Add Chocolate Butter Mixture: Pour the butter and cocoa mixture into the sugar and egg mixture. Mix well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
  5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Stir together the salt, baking powder, and all-purpose flour in a separate bowl. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet batter, stirring slowly to combine without overmixing.
  6. Bake the Brownies: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (slightly sticky but not wet). Remove brownies from oven and let cool completely in the pan.
  7. Prepare Coffee Cream: Stir together the heavy whipping cream and instant coffee granules until the coffee granules are dissolved and fully incorporated.
  8. Make the Coffee Buttercream: Beat the softened butter and salt together until creamy. Slowly add the powdered sugar alternately with the coffee cream mixture while continuing to beat. Once all ingredients are combined, beat on high speed for 1 minute or until the frosting is light and fluffy.
  9. Frost the Brownies: Spread the coffee buttercream evenly over the cooled brownies, creating a smooth layer.
  10. Prepare Chocolate Ganache: Place the dark chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave for 30 seconds, then stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If needed, heat for an additional 15 seconds and stir again until melted completely.
  11. Top with Ganache: Spread the warm chocolate ganache evenly over the coffee buttercream layer. Allow the ganache to set and firm up before slicing the brownies.
  12. Serve: Once the ganache is set, cut the brownies into 16 equal squares and serve.

Notes

  • Use high-quality dark cocoa powder and chocolate for a richer flavor.
  • Ensure brownies are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting the buttercream.
  • Instant espresso powder enhances coffee flavor without adding moisture.
  • Microwave times may vary; heat chocolate ganache in short intervals to avoid burning.
  • Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Keywords: coffee brownies, espresso brownies, chocolate brownies, coffee buttercream frosting, chocolate ganache, baked desserts