Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 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
Coffee Frosting
- 2-4 tablespoon heavy whipping cream
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8-inch baking dish by greasing it with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper sprayed with non-stick spray to prevent the brownies from sticking.
- Melt butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, gently melt 1 stick of unsalted butter until fully liquefied, being careful not to overheat it.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir these until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Add dry ingredients: Into the wet mixture, add 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, 2 teaspoons coffee extract (or 1 tablespoon instant coffee), and 1 1/2 teaspoons instant coffee granules. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated without overmixing.
- Bake the brownies: Spread the prepared batter evenly into the baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Cool the brownies: Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Cooling is essential before frosting to prevent melting.
- Prepare coffee-infused cream: In a small bowl, stir 1 1/2 to 2 teaspoons instant coffee granules into 2 to 4 tablespoons heavy whipping cream until dissolved. Set aside.
- Make the frosting: In a large bowl, beat 1/3 cup unsalted butter until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar, beating continuously until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Add cream and coffee mixture to frosting: Slowly add 2 tablespoons of the coffee-infused heavy cream to the frosting and mix well. Continue adding cream one tablespoon at a time until desired frosting consistency is achieved — smooth and spreadable but not too runny.
- Frost the brownies: Spread the coffee frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Slice into 16 pieces and serve. Enjoy these rich and coffee-kissed treats!
Notes
- For more intense coffee flavor, use coffee extract rather than instant coffee.
- The frosting can be adjusted in consistency by varying the heavy cream amount; add cream gradually to control texture.
- Ensure brownies are completely cool before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American