Dark Chocolate Espresso Brownies

Name: Dark Chocolate Espresso Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups dark chocolate chips; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons espresso powder

Highlighted under: Sweet Tooth Favorites

I absolutely love making these Dark Chocolate Espresso Brownies for a rich and indulgent dessert. The combination of dark chocolate and espresso gives them an irresistible depth of flavor that I can't resist. Whenever I serve them, I always get compliments and requests for the recipe. They’re surprisingly easy to make, and I’m often amazed at how quickly they disappear at gatherings. Whether enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee or as a sweet ending to a meal, these brownies never fail to impress and satisfy my sweet tooth.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-16T10:45:37.144Z

I’ll never forget the first time I combined espresso with dark chocolate in these brownies; it was a game changer. I had seen recipes suggesting coffee, but using actual espresso brought out the richness of the chocolate even more. After a bit of experimentation with the ratios, I discovered that just a touch of espresso enhances the brownies without overwhelming the chocolate flavor. It’s the perfect pairing!

Another trick I love is melting the chocolate and butter separately before mixing them with the sugar and eggs. This technique creates a smooth and luscious batter that results in fudgy, decadent brownies with that perfect crackly top. Trust me; your friends will be begging for seconds!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich dark chocolate paired with bold espresso flavor.
Fudgy texture that is irresistibly satisfying.
Perfect treat for coffee lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike.

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving the rich flavor in these Dark Chocolate Espresso Brownies lies in the choice of dark chocolate. I recommend using high-quality chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content, as it contributes both depth and sweetness. The bittersweet chocolate balances beautifully with the espresso, elevating the overall flavor profile. Avoid using chocolate labeled as 'melting chocolate' or 'chocolate chips' made specifically for baking, as they often contain stabilizers that can alter the texture.

Espresso powder is another essential ingredient in this recipe, as it enhances the chocolate flavor without overwhelming the brownies with coffee taste. If you don’t have espresso powder, instant coffee can be used in a pinch, albeit with slightly different results. Just ensure it's finely ground to ensure even distribution in the brownie batter.

Baking Tips for Perfect Brownies

Achieving the perfect fudgy texture is crucial, and there are a few tips to ensure success. Make sure not to overmix the batter after adding the flour mixture; mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in cakey brownies rather than the dense, fudgy ones we desire. Additionally, the baking time is key. Start checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark, and look for a slightly puffed top with shiny edges; a toothpick inserted should have a few moist crumbs clinging to it.

Cooling the brownies is equally important. Allow them to sit in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting. This cooling period helps them set further and makes it easier to cut into clean squares. If you’re tempted to cut them right out of the oven, you might end up with uneven pieces that crumble. Patience truly pays off here!

Ingredients

Brownies

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Melt Butter and Chocolate

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and dark chocolate chips over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until smooth.

Combine Sugars

Remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and espresso powder. Gradually fold this mixture into the chocolate mixture until just combined.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 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 for at least 15 minutes before slicing them into squares and serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle sea salt on top of the brownies before baking for a delightful contrast with the sweetness.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, which helps maintain their fudgy texture. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them for up to a week or freezing them for up to three months. To freeze, wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Simply thaw at room temperature or microwave them for a few seconds to enjoy them warm.

Serving suggestions can elevate your brownie experience. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert. A dusting of powdered sugar or drizzling with caramel or chocolate sauce can also add an appealing presentation and additional flavor.

Variations and Add-Ins

While the classic version is a treat on its own, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the fudgy texture. You can also mix in chocolate chunks for extra chocolatey goodness. For a twist, try incorporating a swirl of peanut butter or a layer of caramel for added richness.

If you want to make these brownies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Just make sure the blend you choose includes xanthan gum, which helps replicate the texture that gluten provides in baked goods.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but it will change the flavor profile; the brownies will be sweeter and less intense.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute; however, the texture may vary slightly.