Chocolate Espresso Brownies

Name: Chocolate Espresso Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup brewed espresso, cooled; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baked Food

When I crave a rich dessert, I turn to these Chocolate Espresso Brownies. The combination of smooth chocolate and bold espresso creates a delightful treat that’s incredibly satisfying. I love making these for gatherings or just to enjoy on a quiet evening at home. The recipe is simple, yet the flavor profile is complex and enticing. Each bite is a perfect blend of sweetness and coffee richness that lifts my spirits. I’m excited to share this indulgent recipe with you!

Created by

Philippa Grantley

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:17:34.581Z

My journey with these brownies started a few years ago when I encountered a similar recipe at a friend's dinner party. The addition of espresso transformed the traditional brownie into something extraordinary. After several experiments, I perfected the balance of chocolate and coffee, ensuring that neither flavor overpowers the other.

One important tip I learned is to use freshly brewed espresso for the best flavor. It really enhances the chocolate intensity. Also, for a fudgier brownie, avoid overbaking! Trust me, keeping an eye on the timer is essential for achieving that perfect gooey center.

Why You Will Love These Brownies
Decadent chocolate flavor enriched with espresso
Fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
Quick to prepare, perfect for last-minute cravings

Achieving the Perfect Fudginess

The texture of these brownies is crucial to their appeal. To achieve that perfect fudgy consistency, it's important not to overmix the batter once you combine the dry ingredients. Stir just until you see no more flour and cocoa powder. If overmixed, the brownies may end up dry and cake-like rather than rich and gooey. Keep an eye on the baking time; a toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs for optimal fudginess.

Using high-quality chocolate chips can also enhance the texture and flavor of your brownies. I recommend opting for semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips that have a smooth melt. They don't just add richness but also create pools of melted chocolate throughout the brownie. If you're feeling adventurous, try mixing in white chocolate or even some sea salt for an unexpected twist on texture and flavor.

Customizing Your Brownies

While the chocolate and espresso combination is divine, feel free to customize your brownies to suit your tastes! Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can provide a nice crunch; just be sure to chop them into small pieces for even distribution. You could also experiment with a swirl of cream cheese or peanut butter for a delightful contrast in flavor and texture.

If you're looking to make these brownies a bit lighter, you can substitute the granulated sugar with coconut sugar, which has a lower glycemic index. Similarly, for a gluten-free version, using a gluten-free flour blend can work wonders. Just remember that the baking time might need adjustment—keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup brewed espresso, cooled
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup chocolate chips

Mixing these ingredients results in a heavenly batter!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Melt Butter and Mix

In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla.

Add Espresso and Dry Ingredients

Mix in the brewed espresso, then sift in the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Stir until just combined.

Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips into the batter.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the center is set but still moist.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.

Enjoy these brownies warm with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top before baking.

Storage and Freezing Tips

Once you’ve baked and cooled your brownies, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Cut the brownies into squares, and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen brownies can be kept for up to three months without losing their delightful texture.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen brownies, simply pull out the desired number and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer a warm treat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain that freshly baked texture.

Perfect Pairings

These Chocolate Espresso Brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy elements complement the rich flavors perfectly. You might even consider serving them with a shot of espresso or a cappuccino to enhance the coffee notes. Their coffee essence makes these brownies an elegant dessert option after dinner gatherings.

For a fun twist, you can drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the brownies before serving. This not only adds another layer of flavor but also enhances the presentation. Just melt the chocolate or caramel on low heat, and use a fork to create decorative swirls over the brownies once they are cut and plated.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use decaf espresso?

Yes, using decaf espresso will still provide great flavor without the caffeine.

→ How can I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I substitute the butter?

Yes, you can use coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version.

→ What should I serve with these brownies?

They pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.