Name: Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 stick unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons coffee extract (or 1 tablespoon instant coffee); 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoon instant coffee granules; 2-4 tablespoon heavy whipping cream; 1/3 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups powdered sugar

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 5 reviews

If you are craving the perfect blend of rich chocolate and bold coffee flavors in a soft, fudgy treat, this Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These brownies balance the deep chocolate notes with a vibrant coffee punch, all topped with a creamy coffee-infused frosting that transforms an ordinary dessert into something truly unforgettable. Whether you’re baking for a cozy gathering or just treating yourself, this recipe will quickly become a standout favorite that everyone asks for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass mixing bowl sits on a white marbled surface, holding a single layer of thick, dark chocolate batter with a smooth and creamy texture. A white spatula with a black handle is resting inside the bowl, partially covered with the chocolate batter. Around the bowl, several small white bowls with various edges and patterns are visible but empty or lightly dusted, contrasting with the central mixing bowl. The whole scene is bright and clean, showing a baking preparation moment. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in the Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe plays a crucial role in crafting that luscious texture and bold flavor combo. From the buttery richness to the subtle coffee enhancements, each element is simple but essential to the magic you’ll create.

Unsalted butter (1 stick): Provides the creamy fat that makes the brownies moist and tender.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the batter while contributing to slight crispiness on the edges.
Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and add structure for a perfectly dense brownie.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out flavor with warmth and aroma.
Coffee extract (2 teaspoons) or instant coffee (1 tablespoon): Infuses bold coffee flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/3 cup): Delivers that essential deep chocolate taste.
All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Provides the structure and body without making the brownies cakey.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle lift for the perfect texture.
Instant coffee granules (1 1/2 teaspoons): Key for the frosting’s coffee kick.
Heavy whipping cream (2-4 tablespoons): Used to adjust the frosting’s creamy, spreadable texture.
Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and smooths the frosting.

How to Make Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Get Your Oven and Pan Ready

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare an 8-inch baking dish by either spraying it with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper and then spraying. This little prep step ensures your brownies will lift out cleanly and keep their perfect shape.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

Place the unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl and melt it gently in the microwave. Butter’s silky texture is essential to the moist, tender crumb of your brownies, so make sure it’s fully melted but not overheated.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the melted butter along with granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir well until everything blends into a smooth batter. This mixture will start the rich foundation of your brownies.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle in the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, and coffee extract or instant coffee, then fold them into the wet mixture. Mix just until combined to keep the brownies dense yet tender. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the ideal fudgy texture.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour your luscious batter into the prepped pan, spreading it evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it – you want the edges set but a little softness in the center for that gooey, irresistible bite.

Step 6: Cool Before Frosting

Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan. This is key because trying to frost warm brownies can cause the frosting to melt and slide off, turning your masterpiece into a mess.

Step 7: Prepare the Coffee Frosting

Mix the instant coffee granules into the heavy whipping cream and set this aside for a moment. Next, in a separate large bowl, beat the butter until light and fluffy to create a smooth base. Gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to beat until silky and fluffy. Then, slowly pour in the coffee-cream mixture, starting with 2 tablespoons and adding more a tablespoon at a time until your frosting reaches the perfect spreadable consistency.

Step 8: Frost and Enjoy!

Spread the heavenly coffee frosting evenly over the cooled brownies, slice into generous squares, and prepare to fall in love all over again. These brownies offer the perfect balance of sweet and robust — truly a treat with every bite.

How to Serve Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe

A white plate holds five square brownies neatly stacked, each brownie showing two clear layers: a dark brown, dense bottom layer with a textured surface, and a thick, smooth top layer of light brown frosting with subtle swirls and small cracks. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a beige burlap fabric partially beneath it and a white napkin with red stripes nearby. A white cup filled with dark coffee is partly visible to the upper left of the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Want to add a little flair? Sprinkle a few chocolate shavings on top, or dust with a pinch of cocoa powder or espresso powder for an elegant finish. A small dollop of whipped cream or a few roasted coffee beans can also elevate presentation, making every bite feel special.

Side Dishes

Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance their rich intensity. For an adult twist, serve alongside a shot of espresso or a creamy latte to amplify the coffee notes and create a harmoniously indulgent experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, cut the brownies into mini bite-sized squares and arrange them on a decorative platter. Drizzle a little caramel or chocolate sauce over the frosted top for added decadence. You can even stack a few to make a brownie tower, punctuated with coffee bean decorations or edible gold dust for an irresistible showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your frosted coffee brownies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If it’s warm where you are, refrigerate them to maintain the frosting’s texture, but bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, these brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To enjoy your brownies warm, heat individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Reheating softens the brownie and slightly melts the frosting, offering that fresh-from-the-oven experience every time.

FAQs

Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of instant coffee extract?

While brewed coffee can add flavor, instant coffee or coffee extract gives a more concentrated, robust coffee taste that blends seamlessly into the brownie batter and frosting. If using brewed coffee, reduce other liquids slightly to maintain the right texture.

What if I don’t have coffee extract? Can I leave it out?

You can omit coffee extract, but the coffee adds a glorious depth to the brownies, enhancing the chocolate flavor and making them uniquely indulgent. Consider substituting with the same amount of instant coffee dissolved in a teaspoon or two of hot water for a similar effect.

How can I make these brownies more cakey instead of fudgy?

To make them cakier, increase the flour slightly to about 3/4 cup and add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder. This adjustment encourages a lighter, more airy texture.

Can I use light whipping cream instead of heavy cream for the frosting?

Heavy cream is best for the frosting’s richness and consistency. Light cream might make the frosting runnier and less stable. If only light cream is available, use less and be prepared for a thinner frosting.

Is it okay to substitute powdered sugar with granulated sugar in the frosting?

Powdered sugar dissolves smoothly and provides the creamy texture essential for frosting. Granulated sugar won’t blend well and could result in a grainy frosting. Stick with powdered sugar for the best results.

Final Thoughts

You’re just a few simple steps away from diving into an extraordinary chocolate and coffee experience. This Frosted Coffee Brownies Recipe is more than just dessert — it’s your new signature treat that combines comforting fudginess with a lively coffee twist. I promise, once you try it, it will become a go-to for celebrations, cozy nights, and anytime you want to feel like you’re giving yourself a little love. So grab your ingredients and start baking — your taste buds will thank you.