Chocolate Espresso Brownies

Name: Chocolate Espresso Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon espresso powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making these Chocolate Espresso Brownies whenever I need a quick pick-me-up or a delightful dessert to impress my guests. The combination of rich chocolate and bold espresso creates a flavor profile that’s decadent and satisfying. Baking them is a breeze, and the result is a fudgy texture that melts in your mouth. Topped with a dusting of powdered sugar, these brownies are perfect for any occasion, be it a casual gathering or a festive celebration. Trust me, they’ll disappear quickly!

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:40:14.588Z

When I first experimented with adding espresso to my brownie recipe, I didn't expect the transformation it would bring. The robust coffee flavor elevates the chocolate, creating an indulgent experience that makes every bite memorable. The trick is to use quality espresso powder to achieve that deep flavor without overwhelming the chocolate.

While baking, I learned that the secret to achieving that perfect fudgy center lies in not overmixing the batter. This ensures the brownies stay moist and rich, and it only takes 25 minutes in the oven. Each time I make them, I’m reminded of how a few simple ingredients can create such a divine treat.

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Intense chocolate flavor complemented by smooth espresso
Fudgy texture that's gooey but holds together perfectly
Quick to make and perfect for gatherings or cozy nights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Espresso Brownies plays a vital role in achieving the perfect fudgy texture. The unsalted butter not only adds richness but also helps create that coveted melt-in-your-mouth feel. Meanwhile, the granulated sugar helps the brownies rise slightly and contributes to a beautiful shiny crust on top, which is a hallmark of well-made brownies.

Cocoa powder brings intense chocolate flavor, while the espresso powder enhances that richness without overpowering the sweetness. If you don't have espresso powder, you can substitute it with instant coffee granules, but be mindful that the flavor may vary slightly. The eggs in this recipe provide moisture and act as a binder, ensuring the brownies hold together despite their gooeyness.

Perfecting the Baking Technique

When baking these brownies, it's essential to monitor the baking time closely. Overbaking can lead to dry brownies, while underbaking allows for too much moisture, resulting in a gooey texture that won't hold its shape. Aim for a baking time of around 25 minutes, but start checking at the 20-minute mark. The brownies are done when they have a set edge but a slight jiggle remains in the center.

Also, allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. This resting period will help them firm up and make cutting into squares much easier. I recommend using a plastic or silicone spatula to gently lift the edges before transferring them to a wire rack for further cooling.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon espresso powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

For Garnish

Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan for easy removal.

Melt the Butter

In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove it from heat and stir in the granulated sugar, mixing well.

Combine Wet Ingredients

Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, and salt.

Combine and Bake

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out. Bake for 25 minutes.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar and cut into squares.

Enjoy your delicious brownies with a cup of coffee or tea!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The warm fudgy brownies paired with cold ice cream create a wonderful contrast that enhances the overall flavor experience.

For added elegance, consider drizzling melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the brownies just before serving. You could also sprinkle some sea salt on top for an exciting sweet-salty twist that complements the chocolate perfectly.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To store these brownies, simply cover the baking pan with plastic wrap or transfer the cut squares to an airtight container. They will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 4 days, or you can refrigerate them for an even longer shelf life of about a week.

If you want to make these brownies ahead of time, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to bring the batter back to room temperature before baking for even cooking. For longer storage, consider freezing the baked brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 months; they make for a quick treat after defrosting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use decaf espresso powder?

Yes, decaf espresso powder works well if you're sensitive to caffeine!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw before serving.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute. Use 1/4 cup of applesauce for each egg.