Cappuccino Brownies

Cappuccino Brownies - An Unmatched Delight

Who doesn’t love the aroma and flavor of a moist, rich chocolate cake that makes you feel like you’re in an elegant café? Cappuccino brownies are that dessert that combines the sweetness of chocolate with a subtle coffee note, offering you an unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe combines the perfect texture of brownies with a delicate cream cheese frosting and a decadent chocolate glaze, turning each serving into a true pleasure. Let’s discover together how to prepare these delicious cappuccino brownies!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Cooling time: 3 hours
Total time: 3 hours 45 minutes
Number of servings: 24

Necessary ingredients:

For the base:
- 120 g dark chocolate (choose chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for an intense flavor)
- 85 g butter (make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing)
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee (dissolved in ½ tablespoon hot water)
- ¾ cup sugar (you can use brown sugar for a more caramelized taste)
- 1 vial of vanilla extract
- 2 eggs (at room temperature for better incorporation)
- ½ cup flour
- A pinch of salt (helps enhance flavors)
- ½ cup walnut pieces (optional, but adds a crunchy texture)

For the cream:
- 150 g Almette cream cheese with sour cream (or any creamy cream cheese)
- 40 g soft butter (at room temperature)
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- ½ vial of vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (for a warm and aromatic note)

For the chocolate glaze:
- 80 g dark chocolate
- 20 g butter
- ¼ cup liquid cream
- 2 teaspoons instant coffee, dissolved in ½ tablespoon hot water

Preparation steps:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This step is essential for achieving an evenly baked brownie base.

2. Prepare the pan: Line a 20x30 cm square pan with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the brownies after baking.

3. Prepare the base: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the dark chocolate together with the butter and dissolved instant coffee. Stir constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. Once melted, let the mixture cool slightly until it is warm but not hot.

4. Adding dry and wet ingredients: Incorporate the sugar and vanilla extract into the chocolate mixture. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well with a whisk between each addition until the mixture becomes shiny and smooth. Sift the flour and salt over the mixture and gently mix just until combined. Finally, add the walnut pieces if using.

5. Bake the base: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and level it with a spoon. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan.

6. Prepare the cream: While the base cools, prepare the cream cheese. Beat the cream cheese with the butter until fluffy. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, continuing to mix for a few minutes until well combined.

7. Assembly: Spread the cream cheese evenly over the surface of the completely cooled brownie base. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours, so the cream sets a little.

8. Prepare the glaze: In a small saucepan, melt the chocolate, butter, cream, and dissolved instant coffee, stirring constantly until you get a smooth glaze. Let the glaze cool to room temperature.

9. Finishing the cake: Once the glaze has cooled, pour it evenly over the cream layer. Cover the cake again and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, so all layers meld perfectly.

10. Serving: Once well chilled, cut the cake into 24 squares. You can serve the cappuccino brownies cold or at room temperature. These delights can be stored in the refrigerator, in a single layer, covered, for up to 5 days.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add a touch of originality, you can replace the walnut pieces with roasted hazelnuts or chocolate chips.
- Serve the brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of coffee for the perfect combination.
- For a more intense coffee flavor, you can add 1-2 teaspoons of finely ground coffee to the brownie batter.

Nutritional benefits:
Cappuccino brownies are a good source of antioxidants due to the dark chocolate, which may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, the cream cheese adds a note of protein, making this dessert a more balanced option when consumed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
- Yes, but keep in mind that the taste will be sweeter and less intense.

2. How can I make these brownies lower in calories?
- You can reduce the amount of sugar or use natural sweeteners. Also, you can replace the butter with a healthier coconut oil.

3. What is the best way to store the brownies?
- Make sure they are covered in an airtight container to prevent drying out.

In conclusion, cappuccino brownies are not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that blends rich flavors and fine textures. Preparing them is a pleasure, and the final result will surely impress anyone who tastes them. So, don’t hesitate – start cooking and enjoy every bite!