ESPRESSO BROWNIES WITH MOCHA GANACHE

Espresso Brownies with Mocha Ganache image

Provided by Kardea Brown

Categories dessert

Time 2h25m

Yield 16 servings

Number Of Ingredients 15

Nonstick cooking spray
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 tablespoons instant espresso powder
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 sticks (12 tablespoons) butter, melted and cooled
1 tablespoon canola oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup mini chocolate chips
4 ounces semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons heavy cream
2 tablespoons strong coffee
1 teaspoon flaky sea salt, optional

Steps:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat an 8-inch square baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. Cut a piece of parchment paper to fit the bottom of the pan with an overhang on two opposite sides.
For the brownies: Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder and salt in a small bowl and set aside. Whisk together the sugar, butter and oil in a large bowl. Add the eggs and vanilla and whisk just until combined. Using a spatula, stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until no flour streaks remain and then fold in the chocolate chips. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake until the center is slightly set, 30 to 35 minutes. Let cool for about 30 minutes.
For the ganache: When the brownies are ready, put the chocolate in a small heatproof bowl and set aside. Heat the cream and coffee in a small saucepan just until it barely reaches a simmer. Pour the liquid over the chocolate and let sit for 10 seconds before whisking until smooth and shiny. Pour the ganache over the cooled brownies, gently shaking to completely coat the top. Let sit at room temperature until completely cool (about 1 hour) or pop into the refrigerator for 15 minutes before sprinkling with sea salt (if using). Run a knife around the edge of the baking pan and use the parchment to lift out the brownies before slicing.