Espresso Chocolate Chip Blondies with Brown Sugar Frosting

These Espresso Chocolate Chip Blondies with Brown Sugar Frosting are a delightful twist on the classic blondie, infusing rich espresso flavor into a buttery base that’s studded with semi-sweet chocolate chips. Topped with a luscious brown sugar frosting, these blondies are perfect for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweet and slightly bitter, creating a truly decadent treat that will leave you wanting more. So, preheat your oven and get ready to bake something extraordinary!

Why Cooks Rave About It

The magic of these blondies lies in their flavor profile. The combination of espresso and chocolate elevates the traditional blondie, offering a sophisticated dessert that’s still incredibly easy to make. Home bakers love the quick prep time and the fact that they only require a few pantry staples. The brown sugar frosting adds a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth finish that perfectly complements the chewy texture of the blondies. They are perfect for any occasion, from an afternoon pick-me-up to a late-night indulgence.

The Essentials

• Unsalted Butter: 1 cup, melted, for richness and flavor.
• Large Egg: 1, to bind the ingredients together.
• Light Brown Sugar: 1 cup, packed, for sweetness and moisture.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 tablespoon, for depth of flavor.
• Instant Espresso Granules: 1 tablespoon, to infuse a coffee kick.
• All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup, to form the base of the blondies.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon, to enhance the flavors.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: 1 cup, a mix of mini and regular, for that delightful chocolatey goodness.
• Unsalted Butter: ½ cup, for the frosting.
• Light Brown Sugar: 1 cup, packed, for a rich and creamy frosting.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, to flavor the frosting.
• Pinch of Salt: optional, to balance sweetness.

Appliances & Accessories

• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the egg and sugars smoothly.
• Spatula: For folding in the chocolate chips and ensuring even distribution.
• Baking Pan: An 8×8 inch pan works perfectly for the blondies.
• Cooling Rack: To allow the blondies to cool evenly after baking.

Espresso Chocolate Chip Blondies with Brown Sugar Frosting Cooking Guide

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your blondies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. Add in the egg and whisk until the mixture is smooth.

Step 4: Add the Espresso

Stir in the instant espresso granules into the wet mixture, ensuring they are fully dissolved.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, mixing until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake the Blondies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool the Blondies

Once baked, remove the blondies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Make the Brown Sugar Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and light brown sugar until creamy. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, mixing until smooth. Gradually add in powdered sugar until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.

Step 10: Frost the Blondies

Once the blondies are completely cooled, spread the brown sugar frosting evenly over the top. Cut into squares and serve!

How to Make It Lighter

• Substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat version.
• Use a sugar substitute in place of brown sugar if desired.
• Replace the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor with less sugar.
• Consider using whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.

Slip-Ups to Skip

• Don’t overmix the batter after adding the flour; this can lead to dense blondies.
• Make sure not to skip the cooling step before frosting; warm blondies will melt the frosting.
• Check your oven’s temperature; an oven that runs hot can overbake the blondies.
• Using fresh espresso granules is key; stale granules can result in a lack of flavor.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

If you want to prep ahead, these Espresso Chocolate Chip Blondies with Brown Sugar Frosting freeze beautifully! Simply wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm up!

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use decaf espresso granules?

Absolutely! Decaf espresso granules will work just as well if you want to enjoy the flavor without the caffeine kick.

How should I store these blondies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If frosted, keep them refrigerated to maintain the frosting’s texture.

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Yes, feel free to fold in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor!

What if I don’t have instant espresso granules?

You can substitute with brewed espresso or strong coffee, but it may alter the consistency of the batter slightly. Reduce other liquid components accordingly.

Because You Liked This

• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Fudgy Brownies with Sea Salt
• Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Crumble

The Last Word

Indulging in these Espresso Chocolate Chip Blondies with Brown Sugar Frosting is truly a delightful experience. With their rich, buttery flavor and the perfect hint of coffee, they make for a wonderful treat to share with friends or keep all to yourself. Easy to make and irresistible to eat, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients and get ready for a baking adventure that will fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. Happy baking!