Description
Delight in these rich and moist coffee brownies layered with a luscious coffee cream and topped with a smooth chocolate ganache. Perfectly balanced flavors of espresso and chocolate make this dessert a favorite for coffee lovers and chocolate aficionados alike.
Ingredients
Brownies
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cubed)
- 3 ounces unsweetened baking chocolate
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons espresso powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Coffee Layer
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
Ganache
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare Brownies: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line an 8-inch square baking pan with foil; then spray it with non-stick baking spray for easy removal later. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the cubed butter and unsweetened baking chocolate. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth.
- Mix Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla paste. Add the melted chocolate and butter mixture and continue whisking until fully combined. Then stir in the all-purpose flour, espresso powder, and baking soda until you achieve a smooth batter.
- Bake Brownies: Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the brownies to cool completely before adding the coffee layer.
- Prepare Coffee Layer: In a medium bowl, mix the espresso powder with 3 tablespoons of heavy cream until dissolved. Add the powdered sugar and room temperature butter, then beat with a hand mixer until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Apply Coffee Layer: Spread this coffee cream evenly over the cooled brownies. Place the brownies in the refrigerator and chill for about 30 minutes to allow this layer to set properly.
- Make Ganache: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips with 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until the ganache is smooth and completely melted.
- Top with Ganache: Pour the warm ganache over the chilled coffee layer on the brownies. Smooth it out carefully using a spatula. Return the brownies to the refrigerator to allow the ganache to set firmly.
- Store: Once set, store the brownies in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with foil or plastic wrap in the refrigerator. These brownies keep well for several days and can be served chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use high-quality espresso powder for a richer coffee flavor.
- Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before applying the coffee layer to prevent melting.
- The ganache should be smooth and pourable; if it thickens, gently warm it again before spreading.
- This recipe yields 16 servings, suitable for sharing at gatherings or as make-ahead treats.
- For an even more intense chocolate flavor, use bittersweet chocolate chips in the ganache.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American