Mocha Brownies with Cafe Latte Frosting Recipe

If you are dreaming of the perfect marriage between coffee and chocolate, then this Mocha Brownies with Cafe Latte Frosting Recipe is your new best friend. These brownies are decadently fudgy with a rich dark chocolate base, delicately amplified by a deep coffee essence that wakes up every bite. And when topped with the creamy, smooth cafe latte frosting, each square becomes an irresistible treat, perfect for sharing or savoring solo during your sweetest cravings. Whether you are a seasoned brownie lover or a coffee enthusiast, this recipe effortlessly combines both worlds into a sublime dessert experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Mocha Brownies with Cafe Latte Frosting Recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of ingredients. Each component is chosen to build layers of flavor and texture, making the brownies lush and the frosting silky smooth.

• Dark chocolate (5.5 oz): Choose 60% to 75% cocoa for that intense fudgy base that melts in your mouth.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup + 1/2 cup): Softened butter adds creaminess and richness both in the brownies and the frosting.
• Instant coffee powder (1 tbsp + 1-2 tsp): Enhances the mocha flavor, giving the brownies and frosting a gentle coffee kick without overpowering.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup): Balances bitterness with just the right sweetness in the brownie batter.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp + 1/2 tsp): Brings warmth and depth to both the brownies and the frosting.
• Large eggs (2): Provide structure and help create the perfect fudgy texture.
• Salt (1/4 tsp + 1/4 tsp): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• All-purpose flour (3/4 cup): Gives the brownies their tender body while keeping them dense and moist.
• Powdered sugar (1 1/2 – 2 cups): Creates a smooth, sweet base for the cafe latte frosting.
• Boiling water (1 tbsp): Dissolves the instant coffee to infuse the frosting perfectly.
• Whipping cream (1 tbsp, optional): Adds a touch of softness to adjust frosting consistency if needed.

How to Make Mocha Brownies with Cafe Latte Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Melt Chocolate

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, allowing an overhang for easy removal later. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate, butter, and instant coffee powder. Heat in 45-second bursts, stirring between intervals until smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, use a double boiler on low heat to gently melt the mixture without burning. Let the chocolate mixture cool slightly before moving onto the next step.

Step 2: Create the Brownie Batter

Once cooled, whisk the melted chocolate with sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. This mixture forms the luscious base of your mocha brownies. Gently fold in the flour and salt, being careful not to overmix, which ensures the brownies retain their fudgy charm. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly for beautiful, consistent baking.

Step 3: Bake the Brownies

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 23 to 28 minutes. The brownies are done when the top is set, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Cooling the brownies completely in the pan on a wire rack is essential before frosting so the toppings won’t melt.

Step 4: Prepare the Cafe Latte Frosting

Mix the instant coffee powder into boiling water until dissolved, then chill this coffee mixture to room temperature or cooler. Meanwhile, beat softened butter until fluffy using a mixer, mix in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt slowly until smooth. Once the coffee mixture is cool, incorporate it into the frosting base. Gradually add more powdered sugar to achieve that perfect creamy and spreadable consistency. If the frosting feels too thick, a splash of whipping cream will soften it perfectly.

Step 5: Frost and Slice

Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the cooled brownies from the pan and place on a cutting board. Spread the cafe latte frosting evenly over the top with a flat-edge knife. For neat slices, use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts. Now you have stunning mocha brownies topped with a luscious cafe latte glaze ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Mocha Brownies with Cafe Latte Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance the visual appeal with a sprinkle of cocoa powder, a few coffee beans, or even a light dusting of finely grated dark chocolate for a touch of elegance. You can also add some toasted nuts or chocolate chips on top to introduce delightful texture contrasts that work beautifully with the creamy frosting.

Side Dishes

Serve these mocha brownies alongside a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or a creamy latte to complement the mocha notes. A scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream is another lovely pairing that balances richness with cool creaminess, making the dessert experience even more irresistible.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive dessert platter, cut the brownies into bite-sized squares and arrange them artistically on a platter garnished with edible flowers or a drizzle of chocolate syrup. You can also layer pieces with whipped cream and fresh berries for a mocha brownie parfait that’s sure to wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your mocha brownies stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to enjoy maximum freshness. If your kitchen is warm, storing them in the refrigerator is best to keep the cafe latte frosting intact, though the texture might firm up slightly.

Freezing

These brownies freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or store in an airtight freezer-safe container. It’s best to freeze them before frosting, then thaw completely and apply frosting before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer your brownies slightly warm, reheat individual pieces gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Be mindful not to overheat, especially with the frosting, so you maintain that lovely texture without melting it completely.

FAQs

Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant coffee powder in the frosting?

While brewed coffee can add flavor, instant coffee powder provides a more concentrated taste without adding extra liquid that could affect the frosting’s texture. If you must use brewed coffee, reduce or skip the added water to keep the consistency thick and creamy.

What if I don’t have dark chocolate? Can I use milk chocolate instead?

You can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind it will make the brownies sweeter and less intense in chocolate flavor. The rich fudginess and mocha notes are best achieved with dark chocolate of 60% cocoa or more.

How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?

Bake until the top looks set and a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. This indicates the brownies are fudgy inside but cooked through. Overbaking leads to dry brownies, so keep an eye on the time.

Can I make the frosting dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the unsalted butter with a quality dairy-free margarine or coconut oil and replace whipping cream with coconut cream. The texture might vary slightly, but the mocha flavor will still shine through beautifully.

Is it necessary to let the coffee mixture for frosting cool before adding it to the butter?

Absolutely. Adding warm coffee dissolves the butter and can ruin the frosting’s texture. Make sure the coffee mixture is completely cool before combining it with the butter and sugar.

Final Thoughts

Nothing quite compares to the comfort of a homemade brownie bathed in luscious cafe latte frosting, and this Mocha Brownies with Cafe Latte Frosting Recipe brings that pleasure straight to your kitchen. It’s a celebration of flavors that coffee and chocolate lovers will adore, and makes for an impressive dessert that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to indulgence for cozy afternoons and special occasions alike. Go ahead, treat yourself and those you love — you deserve it!

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