Frosted Coffee Brownies: Fudgy & Absolutely Irresistible

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm brownie, fresh from the oven. But when you add a rich swirl of brewed coffee to both the batter and the frosting, you’re entering next-level indulgence. These Frosted Coffee Brownies are moist, deeply chocolaty, and infused with just enough coffee to satisfy your caffeine-loving soul.

This recipe is my go-to for those days when I want something decadent without being too fussy. Inspired by the coffee-scented kitchens of my childhood — where brownies were often topped with anything from powdered sugar to ganache — this version features a luscious coffee buttercream that melts right into the dense, fudgy base. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you want to cut a second square… then maybe a third.

Let’s bake a batch of brownie magic, shall we?

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🍫 What Are Frosted Coffee Brownies?

Frosted Coffee Brownies are rich chocolate brownies made with a hint of strong brewed coffee (or espresso), which intensifies the cocoa flavor without overpowering it. Once baked and cooled, they’re topped with a smooth and creamy coffee frosting — made from butter, powdered sugar, more coffee, and a pinch of vanilla.

The result? A bold, bittersweet flavor bomb that pairs perfectly with a tall glass of milk or your favorite espresso.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Brownies:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup strong brewed coffee or espresso
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup chocolate chips or chunks (optional)

For the Coffee Frosting:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp strong brewed coffee
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

⏱️ Baking Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
• Cool Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yields: 9 servings (from an 8×8-inch pan)

🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

2. Make the Brownie Batter

In a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the sugar, eggs, vanilla, and brewed coffee until smooth. Add cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Stir until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.

3. Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let brownies cool completely in the pan before frosting.

4. Prepare the Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, brewed coffee, vanilla, and salt. Beat until smooth and spreadable.

5. Frost and Slice

Spread frosting evenly over cooled brownies. Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to help set the top, then cut into 9 squares.

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🔢 Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~330
• Fat: 18g
• Carbs: 42g
• Sugar: 32g
• Protein: 3g

Note: Values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands.

☕ Tips for the Best Coffee Brownies

• Use strong coffee or espresso for the best flavor. Instant espresso powder dissolved in water works too!
• Don’t overbake — fudgy brownies should be slightly underdone in the center when removed from the oven.
• Cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the butter in the icing.
• Add-ins: Try walnuts, caramel bits, or swap the chocolate chips for white chocolate for a fun twist.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

These brownies are best enjoyed:

• With a shot of espresso or iced latte
• Slightly chilled with a dollop of whipped cream
• Cut into small squares for a dessert tray at events
• Warmed and served with vanilla ice cream for an over-the-top treat

🔗 More Coffee & Chocolate Creations

• Mocha Layer Cake with Coffee Ganache
• Espresso Fudge Cookies
• Café Mocha Cupcakes
• Triple Chocolate Espresso Blondies

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these brownies without frosting?

Absolutely! They’re rich enough to stand alone — just dust with powdered sugar or add chocolate drizzle.

Can I use instant coffee?

Yes, dissolve 1–2 tsp of instant coffee in hot water to use as a brewed substitute.

How do I store these brownies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a firmer texture. They also freeze well!

Can I double the recipe?

Yes — just bake in a 9×13-inch pan and increase bake time by 5–10 minutes.

What’s the best cocoa powder to use?

Use unsweetened Dutch-processed cocoa for the richest flavor and color.

💬 Final Thoughts

Frosted Coffee Brownies are what happen when your love of chocolate and your caffeine cravings meet in the middle. Fudgy, deeply flavorful, and topped with creamy coffee frosting, they’re the kind of treat you’ll want to bake on repeat.

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