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 unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup cocoa powder; 1 tablespoon espresso powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup dark chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Ideas

I absolutely adore these Chocolate Espresso Brownies. Combining rich, dark chocolate with a hint of espresso creates a decadent treat that caters to chocolate lovers and coffee enthusiasts alike. The moment I took my first bite, I was transported to a coffeehouse, warmed by the flavors that melded perfectly in each square. There’s something special about the intensity of espresso elevating the chocolate, making every piece an indulgence. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or on their own, these brownies have quickly become a favorite in my household.

Created by

Allegra Stone

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:27:34.846Z

When I first experimented with adding espresso to classic brownies, the outcome was astonishing. The espresso not only enhanced the chocolate flavor but also contributed a remarkable depth to the texture, making each bite more luxurious and fulfilling. I’ve learned that the quality of the chocolate and espresso really does matter, so I always opt for the best ingredients I can find.

One of my favorite tips is to under-bake the brownies slightly; this ensures that they remain fudgy and irresistible. Chilling them before cutting also firms them up nicely, allowing for clean, beautiful edges. Once I made these tweaks, my brownies turned out absolutely perfect every time!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Intensely rich chocolate flavor enhanced by espresso
Fudgy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s impossible to resist
Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing or enjoying solo

      

The Perfect Balance of Espresso and Chocolate

The combination of rich dark chocolate and espresso in these brownies creates a flavor profile that is both complex and satisfying. The bitterness of the espresso enhances the chocolate’s sweetness without overpowering it, leading to a balanced treat that appeals to both chocolate and coffee lovers alike. The espresso powder not only contributes flavor but also deepens the overall chocolatey richness, making it essential for the perfect brownie experience.

Using good quality dark chocolate chips is also crucial for achieving that fudgy texture. Aim for chips that contain at least 60% cocoa solids to ensure a deep chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the espresso. When you melt the chocolate and mix it into the batter, it becomes part of the luscious body of the brownies, creating a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.

Technique Tips for Fudgy Brownies

To achieve that signature fudgy texture, be careful not to overmix the brownie batter after adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, resulting in a cakey texture rather than the dense, moist brownie we all love. Mix until just combined, which will keep the brownies chewy and indulgent.

Another key step in ensuring perfectly baked brownies is the baking time. Start checking for doneness at around 20 minutes, and remember that they will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter—this indicates that they’re perfectly baked.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cocoa powder
1 tablespoon espresso powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup dark chocolate chips

Now that you have everything, let's get baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix melted butter and sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Prepare Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, and salt.

Mix Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.

Bake the Brownies

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy!

And there you have it, rich and fudgy brownies!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, add chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. Be sure to check the brownies a couple of minutes before the suggested baking time, as ovens can vary.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies can be made ahead of time and stored to enjoy later. After they cool completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They can last up to a week at room temperature or up to a month in the freezer. If freezing, it’s best to cut them into squares first, which makes it easy to grab just the right amount when you’re craving a treat.

When ready to eat a frozen brownie, simply let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or warm it slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will revive their fudgy texture and give you that fresh-baked taste.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Espresso Brownies are delicious as is, but why not elevate the experience? Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. The cold creaminess pairs wonderfully with the rich, warm brownies, creating a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures.

For a touch of sophistication, consider drizzling them with homemade espresso ganache, made from melting together chocolate and heavy cream. This will enhance the chocolate flavor while introducing an extra layer of richness that complements the espresso beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Absolutely! You can substitute semi-sweet or even milk chocolate for a sweeter brownie.

→ How do I store leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze brownies?

Yes, brownies freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and they can last for up to three months.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute. For each egg, use 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water or 1/4 cup of applesauce.