Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These brownies are indulgent in every layer. The fudgy brownie base is perfectly complemented by a sweet, Irish cream frosting and topped with a silky ganache. The addition of instant coffee granules enhances the depth of flavor, while the Irish cream liqueur adds a subtle richness. If you're a fan of coffee and chocolate, this is the ultimate dessert to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup butter
- 6 tablespoons baking cocoa
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- ½ teaspoon instant coffee granules
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Frosting:
- 2 cups confectioners' sugar
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons Irish cream liqueur
Ganache Topping:
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 3 tablespoons Irish cream liqueur
- 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- ½ teaspoon instant coffee granules
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the brownie base: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt, and set aside. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat, and stir in cocoa, oil, and instant coffee granules. Let it cool slightly, then stir in sugar and beaten eggs. Gradually add the flour mixture and vanilla, mixing well. Spread the batter into a greased 8-inch square pan and bake for 25 minutes until the center is set. Cool in the pan on a wire rack.
- Make the frosting: Whisk together the confectioners' sugar and butter until lumpy. Gradually whisk in the Irish cream liqueur until smooth. Spread over the slightly warm brownies, then refrigerate until the frosting is set (about 1 hour).
- Prepare the ganache: Combine the chocolate chips, Irish cream liqueur, whipping cream, and instant coffee granules in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Cool slightly, then spread over the frosting. Refrigerate until the ganache is set, about 45–60 minutes.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 16
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes + chilling time
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Variations
- Non-Alcoholic Version: Substitute the Irish cream liqueur with a non-alcoholic Irish cream flavoring or a little extra cream and coffee syrup.
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the ganache layer for extra texture.
- Chocolate Chips in Brownie Base: Stir in some chocolate chips into the brownie batter for even more chocolate goodness.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep these brownies stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Serve chilled or let them come to room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I use regular coffee instead of instant coffee granules?
Yes, you can brew a small amount of coffee, but instant coffee granules work better for this recipe as they dissolve quickly.
Can I make this recipe without Irish cream liqueur?
Yes, you can substitute the Irish cream with an equal amount of heavy cream for the frosting and ganache for a more traditional flavor.
How can I make these brownies extra rich?
Add chocolate chips to the batter for an extra indulgent brownie base, or increase the amount of ganache on top.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes, freeze the brownies after they have set, before cutting them, and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Can I use a different type of alcohol in the frosting?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can use Kahlúa or Bailey’s Chocolat Luxe for a unique twist.
How do I prevent the ganache from becoming too thick?
If your ganache sets too thick, warm it up slightly in the microwave to bring it back to a spreadable consistency.
Can I add whipped cream to the top for serving?
Yes, whipped cream would be a great addition for serving. Just make sure to add it just before serving so it doesn't soften.
Can I use margarine instead of butter in the frosting?
While butter gives the best flavor and texture, margarine can be used as a substitute if necessary.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate chips?
Yes, dark chocolate will add a slightly more intense flavor to the ganache, making it richer.
How do I know when the brownies are fully baked?
The brownies are done when the center is set but still slightly moist. You can check with a toothpick—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready.
Conclusion
Fudgy Layered Irish Mocha Brownies are a delightful, decadent dessert perfect for anyone who loves the combination of coffee and chocolate. With a rich brownie base, creamy Irish cream frosting, and indulgent ganache topping, this treat is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether for a special occasion or just a sweet indulgence, these brownies are bound to impress!
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Fudgy Layered Irish Mocha Brownies
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 Servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fudgy Layered Irish Mocha Brownies combine the rich flavors of coffee and Irish cream in a decadent, multi-layered dessert. With a fudgy brownie base, smooth Irish cream frosting, and glossy ganache topping, these brownies are the perfect indulgent treat, especially for St. Patrick’s Day. The perfect blend of chocolate, coffee, and Irish cream will leave everyone craving more!
Ingredients
-
Brownie Base:
- ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup butter
- 6 tablespoons baking cocoa
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- ½ teaspoon instant coffee granules
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
Frosting:
- 2 cups confectioners' sugar
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons Irish cream liqueur
-
Ganache Topping:
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 3 tablespoons Irish cream liqueur
- 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- ½ teaspoon instant coffee granules
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Base: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in cocoa, oil, and coffee granules. Let it cool slightly, then stir in sugar and beaten eggs. Gradually add the dry ingredients and vanilla. Mix well and spread the batter in a greased 8-inch square pan. Bake for 25 minutes or until the center is set. Let cool on a wire rack.
- Make the Frosting: Whisk together confectioners' sugar and butter until lumpy. Gradually add Irish cream liqueur and whisk until smooth. Spread over slightly warm brownies. Refrigerate until set (about 1 hour).
- Prepare the Ganache: Combine chocolate chips, Irish cream liqueur, whipping cream, and coffee granules in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until smooth. Cool slightly, then spread over the frosting. Refrigerate for 45-60 minutes until set.
Notes
- Non-Alcoholic Version: Substitute Irish cream liqueur with non-alcoholic Irish cream flavoring or extra cream and coffee syrup.
- Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the ganache for extra texture.
- Chocolate Chips in Brownie Base: Stir in chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American