Name: Cappuccino Brownies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 4 ounces Bittersweet chocolate, chopped; 6 tablespoons Unsalted butter, cut into pieces; 1 tablespoon Instant espresso powder (dissolved in ½ tablespoon boiling water); ¾ cup Granulated white sugar; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 2 large Eggs; ½ cup All purpose flour; ¼ teaspoon Salt; ½ cup Chopped walnuts (optional); 4 ounces Cream cheese, at room temperature; 3 tablespoons Unsalted butter, at room temperature; ¾ cup Sifted powdered sugar; ½ teaspoon Vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon Ground cinnamon (optional); 3 ounces Bittersweet chocolate, chopped; ¼ cup Heavy whipping cream; 1 tablespoon Unsalted butter; 2¼ teaspoons Espresso powder (dissolved in ½ tablespoon boiling water)

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There’s something incredibly rewarding about indulging in a rich dessert, and for me, Cappuccino Brownies hit all the right notes. Picture this: a cozy evening, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air, and the anticipation of sinking your teeth into fudgy brownies layered with a creamy topping. That’s when it struck me to combine two of my favorite treats – brownies and cappuccino! This dessert isn’t just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about creating a moment of joy. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself after a long day, these brownies deliver. They have an irresistible flavor profile: the chocolatey goodness pairs perfectly with a hint of espresso, making each bite a little slice of heaven. My friends and family can’t get enough of them, and neither will you!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Large Pot, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Peeler, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk

Why You’ll Love This Cappuccino Brownies

Decadent Flavor Combination

The marriage of rich chocolate and bold espresso in Cappuccino Brownies is simply divine. The bitterness of the espresso enhances the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a delightful balance. You’re not just tasting dessert; you’re experiencing a culinary adventure!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a quiet night at home, these brownies can elevate any experience. They work beautifully as an after-dinner treat or as a pick-me-up during those afternoon slumps. Everyone loves a classic brownie, but the cappuccino twist makes it unique.

Layered Textures

The cream cheese layer adds a luscious creaminess that juxtaposes beautifully with the brownie base. Each bite offers contrasting textures – from the fudgy brownie to the smooth cream cheese topping – that will surely impress your taste buds.

Easy to Make

Don’t worry if you’re not a professional baker; this recipe is straightforward. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be on your way to baking the most delicious Cappuccino Brownies that will make you feel like a pro in the kitchen.

Great for Sharing

These brownies are perfect for sharing, but good luck trying to keep them around! They’re so delicious that you might just want to keep them all to yourself. However, if you do decide to share, your friends will be begging you for the recipe!

Long Lasting Treat

Once they’re chilled and ready to serve, these brownies will keep for several days. They can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making them an excellent option for meal prep or for having a sweet treat on hand.

What to Buy for Cappuccino Brownies

When making Cappuccino Brownies, it’s essential to choose quality ingredients that complement each other beautifully. The combination of rich chocolate, fresh coffee, and smooth cream cheese creates a decadent treat that’s hard to resist. Using high-quality chocolate and espresso powder will elevate the overall flavor, while the other ingredients come together harmoniously to create a delightful dessert.

4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped: This forms the chocolate base, providing a rich flavor that is essential for the brownies.
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces: Adds moisture and richness to the brownies.
1 tablespoon instant espresso powder (dissolved in ½ tablespoon boiling water): Enhances the chocolate flavor while also giving that distinctive cappuccino kick.
¾ cup granulated white sugar: Sweetens the brownies, balancing the bitterness of the chocolate and espresso.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor.
2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together and helps with rising.
½ cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the brownies.
¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
½ cup chopped walnuts (optional): Adds a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature: This creates the creamy layer on top, making the dessert extra luscious.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature: Makes the cream cheese layer smooth and spreadable.
¾ cup sifted powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the cream cheese topping.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): Gives warmth to the cream cheese layer.
3 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped: Used for the glaze, adding a rich finish to the brownies.
¼ cup heavy whipping cream: Helps create a smooth, glossy chocolate glaze.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds richness to the glaze.
2¼ teaspoons espresso powder (dissolved in ½ tablespoon boiling water): Enhancing the chocolate glaze for that cappuccino flavor.

How to Make Cappuccino Brownies

Making Cappuccino Brownies is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll soon have a scrumptious dessert ready to enjoy. Let’s get started!

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter and flour an 8-inch square baking pan, knocking out any excess flour. Alternatively, you can line the pan with parchment paper, allowing it to hang over the sides for easy removal of the brownies.
In a large saucepan, melt the bittersweet chocolate and unsalted butter together with the espresso mixture over low heat. Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Once melted, remove the pan from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
Once the chocolate mixture is lukewarm, whisk in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract. Make sure to mix well. Then add the eggs, whisking until the mixture is glossy and smooth.
Now it’s time to incorporate the dry ingredients. Gently stir in the all-purpose flour and salt until just combined. If you’re adding walnuts, fold them in at this stage, ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter.
Spread the brownie batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Bake in the middle of the oven for about 22 to 25 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a tester; it should come out with a few crumbs adhering to it.
Let the brownie layer cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This is essential for achieving the perfect texture.
While the brownies are cooling, prepare the cream cheese layer. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to combine the cream cheese and unsalted butter until light and fluffy. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and optional cinnamon. Beat until everything is well combined.
Once the brownies have cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie layer. Place them in the refrigerator for about 1 hour or until the cream cheese layer is firm.
For the final glaze, in a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the bittersweet chocolate, heavy whipping cream, unsalted butter, and espresso mixture. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until the mixture is melted and smooth. Make sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.
If the glaze is too hot, let it cool slightly before pouring it over the cream cheese layer. Pour the glaze carefully and spread it evenly.
Cover the brownies and chill them in the refrigerator until cold, ideally for at least 3 hours. This gives the layers time to set beautifully.
Once set, if you used parchment paper, lift the brownies out of the pan by holding the sides of the parchment. Transfer them to a cutting board and peel away the parchment. Using a long and thin knife, cut the chilled brownies into 24 squares. Enjoy them cold or at room temperature!

Things Worth Knowing

Chill the brownies: Allowing the brownies to chill for several hours helps the flavors meld and the cream cheese layer to set properly.
Quality ingredients matter: Using high-quality chocolate and coffee will enhance the overall flavor of your brownies.
Store properly: Keep the brownies covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and texture.
Customization: Feel free to experiment with nuts or even different flavored glazes!

How to Switch It Up

There are so many ways to customize your Cappuccino Brownies to suit your taste! Here are some fun ideas:

Storage: To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 5 days.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these brownies! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months.
Pairing: Serve these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat!
Variations: Add chocolate chips or caramel bits into the brownie batter for added sweetness and texture.
Espresso flavor boost: If you love strong coffee flavors, increase the amount of espresso powder in both the brownie and glaze.
Nut Substitute: If you’re nut-free, simply omit the walnuts and enhance the chocolate flavor.
Seasonal Inspiration: Add a pinch of pumpkin spice to the cream cheese layer around the fall season for a festive twist.

Perfect Matches for Cappuccino Brownies

When you’re ready to serve your Cappuccino Brownies, consider these delightful pairings:

Coffee or Espresso: These brownies are a match made in heaven with a warm cup of coffee or a shot of espresso.
Ice Cream: Serve with vanilla or coffee-flavored ice cream for a creamy contrast.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can add a light and airy touch.
Fruit Sides: Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, can provide a tart balance to the rich brownies.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top for an extra indulgent treat.
Occasions: These brownies can be served at birthdays, holidays, or casual get-togethers, making them versatile for any event.
Storage Tips: Keep leftover brownies in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator.

FAQ

To maintain the freshness of your Cappuccino Brownies, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps prevent them from drying out and allows the flavors to stay locked in. They can last up to 5 days. If you have leftovers, you might want to consider wrapping them individually and freezing them for longer storage.

Absolutely! You can freeze Cappuccino Brownies without losing their delightful taste. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can remain fresh for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature.

If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have allergies, you can easily omit them from the recipe. Alternatively, you could substitute them with other nuts like pecans or almonds, or even use chocolate chips for a sweeter twist. The Cappuccino Brownies will still be delicious without the nuts!

While bittersweet chocolate is ideal for a more robust flavor, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste. Just keep in mind that this will alter the flavor profile of the Cappuccino Brownies, making them richer and sweeter. Adjust the sugar accordingly if needed.

Conclusion

The Cappuccino Brownies are a perfect blend of rich flavors and delightful textures that make them truly special. With their fudgy brownie base and creamy topping, they are bound to impress anyone who takes a bite. I encourage you to try making these brownies yourself and experience the joy they bring. Whether it’s for a gathering or a cozy night in, these treats will surely make any moment sweeter!