Chocolate Espresso Brownies

Name: Chocolate Espresso Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter; 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour; 1 cup (80g) unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup (175g) chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making chocolate espresso brownies whenever I have a craving for a rich and decadent dessert. The combination of chocolate and espresso elevates the flavor, creating a deliciously intense treat that satisfies my sweet tooth. With each fudgy bite, you get a hint of coffee that complements the chocolate perfectly, making these brownies an instant favorite. They’re simple to make and incredibly rewarding, whether it’s for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends.

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:46:15.639Z

As I was experimenting in the kitchen one afternoon, I stumbled upon the divine pairing of chocolate and espresso. The moment I mixed these two ingredients, I knew I was onto something special. The brownies emerged from the oven looking perfectly glossy and inviting, and the rich aroma filled my home, enticing everyone around.

After allowing them to cool, I took my first bite, and the decadent texture combined with the coffee undertone was a match made in heaven. I recommend sprinkling a pinch of sea salt on top just before serving, as it really enhances the flavors and takes these brownies to another level!

        Why You Will Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with a bold espresso kick
Fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
Simple ingredients for a quick and delightful treat

      

The Perfect Blend of Chocolate and Espresso

The addition of instant espresso powder does more than just add a coffee flavor; it actually enhances the chocolate's natural richness. When paired with unsweetened cocoa powder, the espresso helps to create a deeper flavor profile that makes these brownies unforgettable. Make sure to use high-quality cocoa powder for the best results. Dutch-processed cocoa can give a richer taste, but be mindful that it may alter the final color and texture slightly.

Espresso powder also works as a secret weapon if you want to impress your guests. It intensifies the chocolate while maintaining a fudgy texture, which is the hallmark of a great brownie. For those who prefer less coffee flavor, you can reduce the espresso powder to one teaspoon; however, I recommend sticking with a tablespoon for a full flavor experience.

Tips for Fudgy Perfection

Achieving the perfect fudgy texture requires careful attention to baking time. These brownies need just about 25 minutes in the oven, and it's crucial to start checking around the 20-minute mark. You want to pull them out when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. Overbaking can lead to a cakey texture, which is a common pitfall.

Letting the brownies cool completely in the pan is another key step. This allows them to firm up, making it easier to slice them into neat squares. If you're impatient like me and want to enjoy them warm, you can refrigerate the brownies for about 30 minutes after baking to help them set more quickly.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup (230g) unsalted butter
2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (80g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (175g) chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and stir until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

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

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, serve the brownies with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies store very well, making them a fantastic make-ahead treat. Once cooled, simply cover the pan with plastic wrap or transfer the brownies to an airtight container. They will keep at room temperature for up to 3 days or can be refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

If you choose to freeze them, I suggest cutting them into squares before freezing; this makes it easy to grab a single brownie whenever you have a craving. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up slightly.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These chocolate espresso brownies can stand alone as a rich dessert, but they are also delicious when dressed up. Consider serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream sprinkled with cocoa powder. For a more sophisticated touch, a sprinkle of sea salt on top adds an enticing contrast to the sweetness.

If you’d like to mix things up, you can experiment with different types of chocolate chips. Dark chocolate adds a deeper richness, while white chocolate could lend a nice contrast. You could also fold in chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added texture and flavor. Feel free to get creative with add-ins like coconut or orange zest to personalize your brownies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the espresso powder?

Yes, you can use instant coffee granules if you don't have espresso powder, but the flavor might be slightly different.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I add nuts to the brownies?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a delicious addition for extra texture.

→ What if I like cake-like brownies?

If you prefer a cakey texture, add an extra egg to the batter before baking.