If you’re searching for an easy dessert that effortlessly combines deep chocolate with a bold pop of coffee, look no further than Fudgy Espresso Brownie Bites. Each little bite is a velvet-soft square with chewy edges, a big hit of cocoa, and just enough espresso to enhance that decadent flavor. They’re dangerously good—perfect for parties, gifts, or when you simply need something sweet with your afternoon coffee!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these Fudgy Espresso Brownie Bites is how a handful of familiar pantry staples create such rich results. Every ingredient has a role—from creating a perfectly fudgy crumb to amplifying chocolate flavor—so grab your mixing bowl and prepare for some serious deliciousness.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): This gives the brownie bites their irresistible richness and helps everything blend together smoothly.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): It keeps the brownies sweet with that classic crackly top.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup, packed): Adds moisture and a sumptuous hint of caramel that takes the flavor up a notch.
- Large eggs (2): These bind everything together, delivering that fudgy texture we’re after.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Lends a warm undertone that balances the espresso and chocolate.
- Instant espresso powder (1 tablespoon): The secret ingredient that deepens the chocolate—don’t skip it if you love a coffee kick!
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/3 cup): Gives these bites their intense chocolatey flavor.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Just enough to provide structure without making the brownies cakey.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch brings all the other flavors to life.
- Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon): A tiny boost for a little lift without sacrificing fudginess.
- Mini chocolate chips (1/2 cup, optional): For extra gooey chocolate pockets in every bite—definitely worth it!
How to Make Fudgy Espresso Brownie Bites
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners for easy removal. This will help your Fudgy Espresso Brownie Bites release perfectly and retain their adorable shape.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This step helps dissolve the sugars, which contributes to that signature fudge-like bite.
Step 3: Combine Eggs, Vanilla, and Espresso
Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and the all-important instant espresso powder. Whisk until everything’s well blended—the scent will already have your kitchen smelling like a chocolate lover’s dream.
Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Gently stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Mix until just combined; you don’t want to overmix, which can make the brownie bites less tender.
Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips
If you’re a true chocophile, now’s the time to fold in those mini chocolate chips. They melt into gorgeous pockets of chocolate goodness—totally optional, but highly recommended for ultra-fudgy results.
Step 6: Fill and Bake
Spoon the batter into your prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Pop them in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The tops should be set, but a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with moist crumbs for that perfect fudgy texture.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let your Fudgy Espresso Brownie Bites cool in the pan for five minutes, then gently transfer them to a wire rack. Resist the urge to dig in right away—the flavor and texture are best when they’ve cooled completely.
How to Serve Fudgy Espresso Brownie Bites
Garnishes
Once cooled, you can take your Fudgy Espresso Brownie Bites to the next level with a quick drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a grown-up twist. Even a light dusting of powdered sugar can add a pretty finish that makes these little treats irresistibly inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair your brownie bites with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, or serve them alongside bowls of fresh berries for a contrast of flavors. If you’re hosting a dessert table, set out bowls of whipped cream or caramel sauce for dipping—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties and gifting, stack your Fudgy Espresso Brownie Bites in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon, or arrange them in a tiered cake stand for a stunning centerpiece. You can even skewer them with fresh fruit or marshmallows for a fun, bite-sized dessert platter at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Fudgy Espresso Brownie Bites in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay wonderfully tender for up to four days—perfect for midday snacks or packing into lunchboxes.
Freezing
These brownie bites freeze beautifully. To freeze, let them cool completely, then pop them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature, and they’ll taste freshly baked.
Reheating
If you love a gooey center, zap a brownie bite in the microwave for just a few seconds. This brings them back to life, making the chocolate chips melty and the texture ultra-fudgy—just like day one.
FAQs
Can I make Fudgy Espresso Brownie Bites without espresso powder?
Yes, you can! The espresso simply deepens the chocolate flavor, but if you’d rather skip the caffeine, leave it out or swap for decaf espresso powder for the same rich taste.
How do I know when my brownie bites are done?
Keep an eye out for set tops and check with a toothpick—it should come out with moist crumbs, not completely clean. This ensures you get that coveted fudgy texture instead of a dry crumb.
Can I use regular-sized muffin tins?
Absolutely! The baking time will need to be longer—usually 18-22 minutes for standard muffin cups. Just watch for doneness and enjoy giant Fudgy Espresso Brownie Bites if you’re feeling extra indulgent.
Are mini chocolate chips necessary?
They’re totally optional, but add amazing melty bits in every bite. If you’re a nuts fan, you could swap them for chopped walnuts or pecans, or skip add-ins altogether for classic simplicity.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
For best results, bake the batter right after mixing so the leavening works its magic. But the baked brownie bites hold up incredibly well when made a day ahead for parties or gifting.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to wow your friends (or just treat yourself), these Fudgy Espresso Brownie Bites will not disappoint. They’re impossibly fudgy, full of coffee-chocolate goodness, and so easy to share—if you can resist eating them all first! Give them a try, and get ready for instant rave reviews.
Print
Fudgy Espresso Brownie Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 mini brownie bites
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these rich and decadent Fudgy Espresso Brownie Bites that are bursting with the flavors of coffee and chocolate. These mini brownie bites are the perfect treat for any coffee lover!
Ingredients
For the Brownie Bites:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a mini muffin tin.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla extract, and espresso powder, and whisk to combine.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just mixed. Fold in mini chocolate chips if desired.
- Bake: Spoon batter into the mini muffin tin and bake for 12-15 minutes until set. Cool before serving.
Notes
- For added indulgence, drizzle with melted chocolate or sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie bite
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
