Name: Espresso Brownies with Browned Butter and Rich Coffee Flavor Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 48 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, cold (226 g); 1 cup + 2 tbsp semi-sweet chocolate chips (200 g); 1 cup all-purpose flour (128 g); 3 tbsp dark cocoa powder (16 g); 2 tbsp espresso powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar (250 g); 3 large eggs (165 g); 1/2 tbsp vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 1 review

If you are a fan of rich, deep flavors and enjoy a perfect fudgy texture in your brownies, then this Espresso Brownies with Browned Butter and Rich Coffee Flavor Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These brownies combine the nutty complexity of browned butter with the intense aroma of espresso powder, delivering an irresistible chocolate treat with gooey centers that melt in your mouth. Whether you’re indulging in a quiet afternoon snack or looking to impress guests with a gourmet dessert, this recipe brings a sophisticated twist to a beloved classic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows nine white bowls and a stick of butter arranged on a white marbled surface, each holding different baking ingredients. From left to right at the top, there is a white bowl filled with dark chocolate chips, a small white cup with amber vanilla liquid, and another white bowl with dark brown cocoa powder. Below, a small white bowl holds white salt crystals, a scalloped white bowl is filled with white flour, and next to it are two sticks of pale yellow butter placed side by side. On the bottom row, a small white bowl contains three raw eggs with yellow yolks in clear whites, a slightly bigger white bowl has dark brown espresso powder, and a medium white bowl is heaped with white sugar granules. Each ingredient is clearly separated and labeled in black text above or beside the container. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Keep it simple, but make it count. Every ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in building the texture, aroma, and overall sumptuousness of these espresso brownies.

1 cup unsalted butter, cold: Browning this butter unlocks a deep, nutty flavor that elevates the brownies dramatically.
1 cup + 2 tbsp semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melting into the butter, the chocolate creates that luscious, gooey brownie consistency.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for sturdy yet tender brownies.
3 tbsp dark cocoa powder: Adds rich chocolate intensity and a beautiful dark color.
2 tbsp espresso powder: Infuses the brownies with that signature robust coffee flavor balancing the sweetness.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the sweet and chocolate notes.
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter for that classic brownie taste with a slight crisp crust.
3 large eggs: Bind the batter and contribute to the moist, fudgy texture.
1/2 tbsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and lifts the chocolate and coffee flavors.

How to Make Espresso Brownies with Browned Butter and Rich Coffee Flavor Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350 F/180 C and line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal and clean cuts later. Gather all your ingredients so everything is ready to go—brown butter and melted chocolate won’t wait!

Step 2: Brown the Butter

Place cold unsalted butter in a stainless steel pan over medium heat. It will foam and crackle as it melts—don’t be alarmed! Stir occasionally and watch closely until you see golden-brown bits forming with a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and transfer the browned butter into a mixing bowl.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate Chips

Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips directly to the warm browned butter and stir until fully melted and smooth. This blend is the heart of your luxurious brownie base.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, dark cocoa powder, espresso powder, and salt in a separate bowl. These dry ingredients build the deep chocolate and coffee flavor that defines this recipe.

Step 5: Whisk Eggs, Sugar, and Vanilla

Using a mixer, beat together the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract on medium speed until the mixture is fluffy and slightly pale. This step creates a perfect base for light yet fudgy brownies.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

While the mixer runs on low, slowly pour the melted butter and chocolate mixture into the eggs and sugar blend. Stir until just combined, then gently fold in the dry ingredients using a spatula. Folding preserves the batter’s airiness and ensures even texture.

Step 7: Bake to Gooey Perfection

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and bake for 30-40 minutes. Test with a toothpick in the center—when it comes out coated with moist crumbs (not wet batter), the brownies are ready. Keep an eye on your brownies as ovens vary, and if your pan isn’t metal or has rounded edges, it might take a bit longer.

Step 8: Cool and Cut

Let the brownies cool completely on a wire rack. This is key to allowing the fudgy centers to set properly. Use a hot, sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts, and slice into 16 squares for perfect portions.

How to Serve Espresso Brownies with Browned Butter and Rich Coffee Flavor Recipe

The image shows rich, dark brown brownies placed on a light beige surface. Each brownie is cut into thick, square pieces with a slightly cracked top layer that has a shiny, slightly crispy texture. One piece is stacked, showing two layers – the top cracked layer and the dense, moist interior that looks soft and chewy with a spongy texture. Small flakes of white sea salt are sprinkled lightly on the top surface of the brownies, adding texture and contrast to the dark chocolate color. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a simple garnish enhances the espresso brownies’ appeal. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few espresso beans on top can highlight the coffee notes. For extra indulgence, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes for an irresistible pairing.

Side Dishes

Espresso brownies are a magnificent finish to any meal, but pairing them with rich desserts like creamy panna cotta or fresh berries can add contrast and freshness. A cup of strong black coffee or a latte complements the coffee flavor beautifully, rounding out the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, consider stacking the brownies with layers of cream and espresso drizzle for a parfait-style treat. You can also cut them into small bite-sized cubes, serve on skewers with marshmallows or fruit, and drizzle with chocolate sauce for an elegant dessert display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed maintains their moist and gooey texture, perfect for snacking anytime.

Freezing

Brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly for that freshly baked warmth.

Reheating

A quick zap in the microwave for 15-20 seconds intensifies the gooey chocolate and coffee flavor, making these brownies taste like they just came out of the oven. Just be careful not to overheat, or they will lose their fudgy charm.

FAQs

Can I use regular butter instead of unsalted butter for this recipe?

Yes, but using unsalted butter gives you control over the salt content. If you only have salted butter, you might want to reduce or omit the extra salt in the ingredients to keep the flavor balanced.

Will instant coffee powder work instead of espresso powder?

Instant coffee powder can be used as a substitute, but espresso powder has a stronger, more concentrated flavor which makes the brownies truly stand out. If using instant coffee, consider using slightly less to avoid bitterness.

How can I tell when the browned butter is ready?

Watch for golden-brown specks forming at the bottom of the pan and a delicious nutty aroma. The butter will bubble and foam quite a bit during this process, so be patient and stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum or another binder to help maintain structure.

Why are my brownies not gooey in the center?

If your brownies came out too dry or cakey, it usually means they baked too long or the oven temperature was too high. For that fudgy center, check early for doneness and remove them once a toothpick shows moist crumbs, not clean.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the way coffee and chocolate mingle, and these Espresso Brownies with Browned Butter and Rich Coffee Flavor Recipe capture that magic brilliantly. From the first bite to the last crumb, these brownies offer a gourmet twist that feels both cozy and special. I can’t wait for you to try them and discover just how deliciously rich and fudgy a brownie can be!