Coffee isn’t just for sipping—it’s also the perfect ingredient to elevate your desserts! From cakes to frozen treats, the rich, bold flavor of coffee can add depth and complexity to all kinds of sweet recipes. If you love coffee and have a sweet tooth, you’re in for a treat. In this article, we’ll share five easy and delicious dessert recipes that use coffee as a star ingredient. These coffee-infused desserts are sure to impress your friends and family, or simply satisfy your own cravings.
1. Coffee Brownies
What could be better than a rich, fudgy brownie? A coffee-infused brownie! The combination of chocolate and coffee creates a deep, robust flavor that’s irresistibly delicious. Plus, this recipe is simple and quick, making it perfect for a last-minute dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp instant coffee granules (or espresso powder)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and instant coffee granules. Stir until smooth.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the brownies cool before cutting into squares and serving.
Pro tip: For extra indulgence, serve these coffee brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
2. Coffee Ice Cream
Coffee ice cream is a classic treat, and making it at home is easier than you might think. This no-churn recipe requires just a few ingredients and delivers a creamy, delicious coffee-flavored ice cream that’s perfect for warm days.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tbsp instant coffee granules (dissolved in 2 tbsp hot water)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, dissolved coffee, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture until fully incorporated.
- Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or freezer-safe container and cover with plastic wrap.
- Freeze for at least 6 hours, or until the ice cream is firm.
- Scoop and serve!
Pro tip: Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the mixture before freezing for a delicious crunchy twist.
3. Mocha Tiramisu
Tiramisu is a beloved Italian dessert that combines layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers with a rich, creamy filling. This version adds a mocha twist by incorporating both coffee and chocolate into the mix.
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups strong brewed coffee (cooled)
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp instant coffee granules
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 24 ladyfinger cookies
- Cocoa powder (for dusting)
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix the brewed coffee, cocoa powder, and instant coffee granules. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.
- Dip each ladyfinger cookie into the coffee mixture (quickly, to avoid them getting too soggy) and layer them in the bottom of a serving dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ladyfingers and mascarpone mixture.
- Dust the top with cocoa powder and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before serving.
Pro tip: For an extra chocolatey treat, sprinkle chocolate shavings on top before serving.
4. Coffee Panna Cotta
Panna cotta is a silky, creamy Italian dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. This coffee-flavored version adds a bold twist, making it the perfect dessert for coffee lovers.
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 tsp instant coffee granules (or brewed espresso)
- 1½ tsp powdered gelatin
- 2 tbsp cold water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream, milk, sugar, and coffee granules over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and coffee dissolve. Do not let it boil.
- Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the gelatin mixture until completely dissolved.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the mixture into individual ramekins or serving glasses and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Pro tip: Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for extra flavor.
5. Coffee Affogato
The simplest of all coffee desserts, Affogato is an Italian classic that combines hot espresso with cold ice cream. This quick and easy dessert is the perfect way to end a meal, offering both sweetness and a boost of caffeine.
Ingredients:
- 1 shot of hot espresso (or strong brewed coffee)
- 1 scoop vanilla ice cream
- Chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream in a small serving dish or glass.
- Pour the hot espresso over the ice cream.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings, if desired, and serve immediately.
Pro tip: Experiment with different ice cream flavors, like hazelnut or caramel, for a unique take on the classic affogato.
Conclusion
Whether you’re craving a rich, indulgent dessert or something light and refreshing, coffee can take your sweet treats to the next level. These five easy dessert recipes using coffee are perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight treats to impressive dinner party finales. Try one (or all!) of these recipes, and get ready to enjoy the delicious combination of coffee and dessert.
