Coffee-Infused Mocha Brownies with Shortbread Crust

Prep: 20 minCook: 33 min24 browniesmediumAmerican
Coffee-Infused Mocha Brownies with Shortbread Crust

These indulgent mocha brownies feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with rich coffee-chocolate brownies and finished with a smooth coffee buttercream frosting. The combination of brewed coffee in both the brownie layer and frosting creates deep mocha flavor that coffee lovers will adore. Perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or when you want to impress guests with a sophisticated twist on classic brownies. The three distinct layers provide wonderful textural contrast.

VegetarianNut-Free

Ingredients

Yield: 24 brownies
  • ½ cup butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups flour
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 1 box brownie mix, 9x13 pan size
    homemade brownie batter1:1

    Use 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup cocoa, 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup butter

  • 2 eggs
  • ¾ cup oil
    melted butter1:1adds dairy

    Creates richer flavor but slightly denser texture

    Full guide →
  • ¼ cup brewed coffee
    espresso1:1

    Use cooled espresso for stronger coffee flavor

  • ¼ cup butter, melted
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons brewed coffee
    espresso1:1

    Use cooled espresso for stronger coffee flavor

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a 9x13 inch pan with foil and spray with cooking spray

  2. 2

    Mix softened butter, flour, and sugar in electric mixer with paddle attachment until dough comes together but remains slightly crumbly

  3. 3

    Press dough into prepared pan to form crust

  4. 4

    Bake crust for 10 minutes

  5. 5

    Mix brownie ingredients in medium bowl by hand until combined

  6. 6

    Pour brownie mixture over hot crust

  7. 7

    Bake for 21-23 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean 1 inch from side of pan

  8. 8

    Cool completely before frosting

  9. 9

    Beat melted butter and powdered sugar with handheld mixer in large bowl

  10. 10

    Mix in vanilla and coffee and beat until smooth

  11. 11

    Pour frosting over cooled brownies and spread evenly

  12. 12

    Chill to set frosting

Tips

Tip 1

Use strong brewed coffee for more intense mocha flavor throughout the brownies and frosting.

Tip 2

Let brownies cool completely before adding frosting to prevent melting and ensure clean slices.

Tip 3

Store in refrigerator to keep frosting set, but allow to come to room temperature for softer texture before serving.

Good to Know

Storage

Store covered in refrigerator for up to 1 week. Frosting stays set when chilled.

Make Ahead

Can be made 2 days ahead. Add frosting day of serving for best appearance.

Serve With

Serve chilled for firm frosting or at room temperature for softer texture.

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't frost warm brownies or frosting will melt

Watch

Press crust firmly to prevent cracking

Substitutions

brewed coffee→
espresso1:1

Use cooled espresso for stronger coffee flavor

brownie mix→
homemade brownie batter1:1

Use 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup cocoa, 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup butter

oil→
melted butter1:1adds dairy

Creates richer flavor but slightly denser texture

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I make these without the crust layer?

Yes, pour brownie batter directly into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. The crust adds texture and richness but isn't essential.

How long do these keep at room temperature?

Up to 3 days covered, but frosting will soften. For firm frosting, store in refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.

Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, freeze unfrosted brownies up to 3 months. Thaw completely before adding frosting. Frosted brownies freeze for 1 month but texture may change.