Brown Butter Espresso Brownies

Name: Brown Butter Espresso Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup dark chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Artisanal Baking Recipes

I’ve always been a fan of brownies, but when I discovered the magic of brown butter combined with a kick of espresso, my dessert world transformed. These brownies are rich, fudgy, and have an addictive depth of flavor that takes them to the next level. The beauty of using brown butter lies in its nutty aroma and intensified taste, which pairs perfectly with the coffee notes in espresso. It’s a simple twist that elevates the classic brownie into something you’ll want to share—or keep all to yourself!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-24T16:15:18.786Z

When I first made these brownies, the smell of the brown butter sizzling on the stove had me completely captivated. I realized the importance of brown butter in enhancing the overall flavor profile. Browning the butter not only adds a rich, nutty essence but also creates a certain depth that pairs beautifully with the espresso, leaving each bite unforgettable.

After several tests, I found that a little adjustment in the espresso amount made a huge difference, highlighting the coffee notes without overpowering the sweetness of the brownies. Using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate also intensified the richness. Trust me, you’ll want to try this version!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor paired with a coffee kick
Nutty undertones from brown butter that enhance every bite
Perfect for both a casual treat or a special gathering

The Importance of Brown Butter

Brown butter is the star of this brownie recipe, adding a unique depth of flavor that regular melted butter simply can't achieve. When you brown the butter, the milk solids caramelize, creating a nutty aroma and rich flavor profile. Be vigilant during this step; it can transition from perfectly browned to burnt in seconds. Look for a golden-brown color and a fragrant aroma before removing it from heat, ensuring you achieve that delightful nuttiness in each bite.

Incorporating browned butter also enhances the brownies' texture. The toasty flavor complements the chocolate and espresso, resulting in a harmonious blend that makes each brownie a luxurious experience. If you're short on time or want a lighter version, you can replace some of the unsalted butter with coconut oil, though it will alter the flavor slightly, making it more tropical.

Espresso: More Than Just a Flavor

Using instant espresso powder not only gives these brownies a rich coffee flavor but also serves to enhance the overall chocolate experience. The bitterness from the espresso balances the sweetness of the sugar, making the brownies feel more sophisticated. If you prefer a less intense coffee flavor, consider reducing the amount of espresso powder to 2 teaspoons, but be mindful that this will also reduce the coffee kick that complements the chocolate.

Espresso has the unique ability to amplify other flavors in baked goods. Alongside the brown butter, it brings out the richness of the dark chocolate chips, ensuring that each bite isn't just sweet but also complex. If espresso isn't your cup of tea, you could substitute it with a similar amount of strong brewed coffee, but make sure it’s concentrated to achieve the same depth.

Serving and Storing Your Brownies

Once your brownies have cooled, you can cut them into squares for serving. For an added touch, dust them lightly with powdered sugar or serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The ice cream melts slightly against the warm brownie, creating a delightful dessert experience that’s hard to resist. Alternatively, pair these brownies with a rich chocolate sauce or a drizzle of caramel for extra decadence.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Cut the brownies into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or heat them for a few seconds in the microwave, bringing back that freshly baked feel.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

For the Brownies

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

Make sure to measure accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your brownies:

Brown the Butter

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and stir in the instant espresso powder until well combined.

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the brown butter with the granulated sugar and mix well. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake

Pour the brownie batter into a greased 9x9 inch baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of ice cream!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can top the brownies with a sprinkle of sea salt before baking for a sweet and salty contrast.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your brownies come out dry, it could be due to overbaking or too much flour. Always keep an eye on them in the oven; remember that they will continue to cook slightly when removed due to residual heat. The toothpick test is key—pull it out when it still has a few moist crumbs attached for the perfect fudgy texture.

Another common issue is undercooked brownies. If your toothpick comes out with a lot of batter, don’t panic! Simply return the pan to the oven for a couple of additional minutes, checking frequently to avoid overbaking. This way, you’ll achieve that ideal gooey center, characteristic of delicious brownies.

Flavor Variations

For added flavor complexity, try incorporating nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter. Toast them lightly beforehand for an even stronger flavor. You might also experiment with flavoring the brownies with a hint of sea salt on top before baking, which enhances the chocolate and espresso flavors dramatically.

If you're looking for a different kind of decadence, consider adding a layer of cream cheese or a nut butter swirl to the brownie batter before baking. This not only adds a delightful creaminess but also offers visual appeal with its marbled look. Just make sure to gently swirl without fully incorporating to maintain that beautiful contrast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but omit the additional salt in the recipe to avoid making the brownies too salty.

→ How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

The edges should look set, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.

→ Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Absolutely! They can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

→ What type of chocolate chips works best?

Dark chocolate chips provide a lovely balance of sweetness and bitterness, enhancing the overall flavor of the brownies.