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There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a rich brownie, but when that brownie is infused with the robust flavors of coffee and chocolate, magic happens. I stumbled upon this divine creation while experimenting with a late-night craving for both dessert and my favorite espresso martini. I never expected that combining these two indulgences would lead to something so utterly delightful!

Imagine slicing into a soft, fudgy brownie that’s complemented by a luscious espresso cream—a treat that’s perfect for coffee lovers and chocolate aficionados alike. Whether it’s for a dinner party or just a cozy night at home, these Espresso Martini Brownies are sure to impress. Best of all, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up, making them the ideal solution for anyone tired of the same old treats.

So grab your apron and let’s blend the worlds of dessert and cocktails into one memorable experience!

Why Will You Love Espresso Martini Brownies?

Indulgent, these brownies combine the rich flavors of chocolate and coffee, creating a deliciously decadent dessert. Easy to make, with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, they’re perfect for bakers of any skill level. Versatile enough for both casual and special occasions, they’re sure to wow your guests. Unique presentation in coupe glasses adds an elegant touch that elevates any gathering. Don’t forget to check out our tips on garnishing to make your dessert even more appealing!

Espresso Martini Brownies Ingredients

For the Brownies

Unsalted butter – adds richness and moisture to keep the brownies fudgy.
Bittersweet chocolate – provides a deep chocolate flavor that balances perfectly with the coffee.
Dutch-process cocoa powder – enhances the chocolate color and taste for that extra indulgent touch.
Fine instant espresso powder – boosts the coffee flavor, making these brownies a true delight for coffee lovers.
Kosher salt – helps to enhance all the flavors and balances sweetness.
Large eggs – provide structure and moisture, giving the brownies their soft texture.
Dark brown sugar – adds a rich, caramel undertone to the sweetness.
Granulated sugar – balances out the browning for a sweet and perfect bite.
Vanilla extract – infuses warmth and enhances the overall flavor of the brownies.
Coffee liqueur – used to add depth and richness, making every bite feel like a fancy dessert.
All-purpose flour – provides the necessary structure for the brownies to hold their shape.

For the Espresso Cream

Cold heavy whipping cream – creates a light and fluffy texture for the creamy topping.
Powdered sugar – sweetens the whipped cream and helps it hold its shape.
Vanilla extract – adds depth of flavor to complement the richness of the cream.
Espresso – brings an extra boost of coffee flavor to the topping.
Mascarpone cheese – adds a creamy, luxurious texture that elevates the overall dessert.
Coffee liqueur – deepens the flavor in the cream layer, emphasizing the espresso martini inspiration.

For Garnishing

Chocolate covered coffee beans – add a delightful crunch and a touch of elegance to your dessert.
Dutch-process cocoa powder – for dusting on top, it not only looks great but adds an extra hint of chocolate flavor to the presentation.

These Espresso Martini Brownies are more than just a dessert; they are an experience that blends your love for coffee and chocolate beautifully!

How to Make Espresso Martini Brownies

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9- x 13-inch baking pan by coating it with cooking spray and lining it with parchment paper, allowing a 1-inch overhang on the long sides.
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently. Once melted, remove from heat and mix in the chopped bittersweet chocolate until smooth. Stir in the cocoa powder, espresso powder, and salt until fully combined. Set aside to cool for about 5 minutes.
Beat the eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons vanilla in a large bowl using an electric mixer. Mix on medium-high speed until the mixture is thickened, fluffy, and lightened in color, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Incorporate the cooled butter-chocolate mixture and 2 tablespoons of coffee liqueur into the egg mixture while the mixer runs on low speed. Beat until just combined, about 30 to 60 seconds.
Fold in the all-purpose flour by hand until just incorporated, being careful not to overmix. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the brownies are just set in the center. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for 1 hour. Once cooled, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment overhang and transfer to a cutting board.
Create brownie rounds by using 6 (4-inch diameter) coupe glasses to stamp out 4-inch circles from the brownies. Gently press each round into the bottom of a glass, then wipe the rims clean. Reserve the brownie scraps for another delicious use. Brush the tops of the brownies with the remaining 2 tablespoons of coffee liqueur.
Whip the cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla, and espresso powder in a large bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed until thickened but not yet holding peaks, about 1 to 2 minutes. Add the mascarpone and 2 tablespoons of coffee liqueur, then beat until the mixture is smooth and thickened, about 30 seconds.
Spoon the espresso cream evenly over the brownie rounds in the coupe glasses, smoothing it into an even layer level with the rim.
Garnish each dessert with a light dusting of cocoa powder and a couple of chocolate-covered coffee beans on top before serving.

Optional: For an extra touch, drizzle some melted chocolate over the top.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Espresso Martini Brownies Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these brownies your own with a few simple tweaks!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delightful, gluten-free treat that everyone can enjoy.
Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or hazelnuts, into the batter for a wonderful crunch and a rich texture.
Minty Fresh: Mix in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract instead of vanilla for a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate and coffee.
Extra Boozy: For those who want to amp up the coffee flavor, increase the amount of coffee liqueur in both the brownie batter and espresso cream!
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) and use a plant-based butter alternative for a delicious vegan brownie.
White Chocolate Drizzle: Top the finished brownies with a drizzle of melted white chocolate for a sweet contrast to the rich coffee flavors.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or espresso powder to the brownie mix for a subtle heat that can elevate the flavor profile.
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate 1/2 cup of finely diced cherries or raspberries into the batter for a fruity burst that complements the chocolate beautifully.

With these variations, there’s no limit to how you can enjoy your Espresso Martini Brownies!

Make Ahead Options

These Espresso Martini Brownies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the brownie base up to 24 hours in advance by baking and cooling them, then storing them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their fudgy texture. The espresso cream can also be made ahead—just whip it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply spoon the cream over the brownie rounds and garnish with cocoa powder and chocolate-covered coffee beans. This way, you’ll enjoy your flavorful dessert with minimal effort on the day of your gathering!

Expert Tips for Espresso Martini Brownies

Use Quality Chocolate: Choose high-quality bittersweet chocolate for a richer flavor. Cheap chocolate can make your brownies taste less delightful.
Watch Mixing Time: Don’t overmix the flour into the batter. Gently fold until just incorporated to maintain that fudgy texture in your Espresso Martini Brownies.
Cool Completely: Allow brownies to cool fully before cutting. This ensures they hold their shape beautifully when creating rounds for the coupe glasses.
Piping Cream: For a neater presentation, consider using a piping bag to add the espresso cream over the brownies, creating a lovely swirl or design.
Experiment with Garnish: Feel free to play with garnish options. A sprinkle of sea salt or grated chocolate can beautifully complement the espresso flavor!
Store Wisely: Keep any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and fudgy, ready to enjoy later!

What to Serve with Espresso Martini Brownies?

Elevate your indulgent dessert experience by pairing it with delightful sides and drinks that complement the rich flavors of these brownies.

Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture melts beautifully against the fudgy brownies, providing a timeless contrast that balances the coffee notes.
Sparkling Wine: A refreshing bubbly will elevate the sweetness of the brownies, creating a celebratory vibe perfect for any occasion.
Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing burst of tartness, perfectly cutting through the chocolate richness of this treat.
Coffee Affogato: Pouring hot espresso over a scoop of vanilla ice cream mirrors the dessert’s flavor themes, creating a delightful synergy of warmth and creaminess.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: An extra layer of decadence that enhances the chocolate flavor, making for a truly rich dessert experience.
Nutty Shortbread Cookies: Crunchy and buttery, these cookies provide an enjoyable contrast to the soft, creamy brownies, making every bite exciting.
Creamy Irish Coffee: Warm, rich, and infused with coffee, this drink echoes the flavors in the brownies while giving you a cozy warming effect—perfect for a night in.

Combining these thoughtfully chosen pairings with your Espresso Martini Brownies will turn dessert into a mini celebration!

How to Store and Freeze Espresso Martini Brownies

Room Temperature: Store the brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, ensuring they stay moist and delicious.

Fridge: For longer freshness, keep Espresso Martini Brownies in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember to seal them tightly to prevent absorbing any odors.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual brownie rounds tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When you’re ready to indulge, thaw at room temperature for a few hours or microwave for a few seconds until just warmed through. Enjoy the goodness!

Espresso Martini Brownies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chocolate for my Espresso Martini Brownies?
Absolutely! Opt for high-quality bittersweet chocolate, ideally with cocoa content between 60% and 70%. This ensures a rich chocolate flavor that beautifully complements the coffee in your brownies. You can often find good options at specialty stores or online.

How should I store my Espresso Martini Brownies to keep them fresh?
For room temperature storage, keep your brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, moving them to the fridge can extend their freshness up to 5 days. Just remember to seal them tightly to protect them from absorbing any fridge odors.

Can I freeze leftover Espresso Martini Brownies?
Very! To freeze your brownies, wrap each individual round tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. This method protects them from freezer burn, and they can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or gently microwave for a few seconds.

Why are my brownies too dry or crumbly?
If your Espresso Martini Brownies turn out dry, it could be due to overmixing or overbaking. Be careful not to mix the flour too much, as this can develop gluten and affect the brownies’ fudgy texture. Additionally, check them in the oven a minute or two before the baking time is up, as ovens can vary.

Can children enjoy these brownies? What about allergies?
The Espresso Martini Brownies contain coffee liqueur, which may not be suitable for kids. However, you can always substitute the coffee liqueur with extra coffee or milk for a non-alcoholic version. Also, check the ingredients for any potential allergens like eggs or mascapone cheese if you’re serving those with dairy sensitivities.

How can I make these brownies more visually appealing for a party?
Presentation is key! Consider using a piping bag to create decorative swirls of the espresso cream on top of the brownies. Also, adding a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate their look and impress your guests even more!