For coffee lovers, there’s no better way to indulge than with a rich, bold cup of espresso. But why stop at just drinking it? Espresso can be used as an ingredient in a variety of decadent desserts and treats that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. From classic cocktails to creamy desserts, we’ve rounded up 18 indulgent espresso recipes that are perfect for coffee lovers.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of espresso-based desserts, from boozy drinks to rich cakes and pastries. Whether you’re a fan of chocolate, nuts, or caramel, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab your favorite cup of espresso and get ready to indulge in these delicious treats.
Classic Espresso Martini
A rich and decadent cocktail that combines the bold flavors of espresso with the smoothness of vodka and cream. Perfect for a sophisticated evening or a quick pick-me-up anytime.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong espresso (about 1 ounce)
– 1 1/2 ounces vanilla-flavored vodka
– 1/2 ounce triple sec
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– Simple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
– Coffee beans or grinds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the espresso, vodka, and triple sec to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Add a splash of heavy cream and stir gently to create a layered effect (optional).
6. If desired, add a drizzle of simple syrup for sweetness.
7. Garnish with coffee beans or grinds.
Cooking Time: None
Affogato with Vanilla Gelato
Elevate your dessert game with this classic Italian treat that combines rich vanilla gelato and a drizzle of hot espresso. Perfect for a quick and satisfying sweet fix, this recipe is easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint vanilla gelato
– 1 shot of strong espresso (about 2 ounces)
– Optional: whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions:
1. Scoop the vanilla gelato into a chilled glass or cup.
2. Pour the hot espresso over the gelato, allowing it to flow and create a creamy, foamy top.
3. If desired, top with whipped cream and shaved chocolate for added indulgence.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Espresso Chocolate Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and decadent espresso chocolate mousse that combines the bold flavors of coffee and dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
– 2 large egg whites
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. Melt the chocolate chips and butter in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the espresso powder until well combined.
4. Fold the egg whites into the melted chocolate mixture until no white streaks remain.
5. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until fully incorporated.
6. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including whipping and melting)
Tiramisu with a Double Shot
Elevate your coffee game with this decadent twist on the classic Italian dessert. This Tiramisu recipe combines rich espresso and creamy mascarpone cheese for a double shot of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Double shot of espresso (about 2 ounces)
Instructions:
1. Brew a strong cup of coffee and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
3. Dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable.
4. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
5. Assemble the Tiramisu by spreading half of the mascarpone mixture in a serving dish, followed by half of the ladyfingers. Repeat.
6. Top with whipped cream, drizzle with espresso, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (including chilling time)
Espresso Brownies with Walnuts
Take your brownie game to the next level with these intense, fudgy treats infused with the deep flavor of espresso and topped with crunchy walnuts. Perfect for satisfying any chocolate craving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups (250g) sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup (120ml) strong brewed espresso
– 1 cup (120g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (30g) chopped walnuts
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in eggs one at a time, followed by flour and baking powder.
4. Stir in espresso, chocolate chips, and walnuts until well combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Espresso Latte
Warm up with this aromatic Spiced Espresso Latte, perfect for chilly mornings or cozy nights. This recipe combines the richness of espresso, the warmth of spices, and the creaminess of milk.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of strong espresso
– 1 cup of steamed milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew two shots of espresso and pour into a large mug.
2. Steam milk until hot and frothy.
3. Add ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom to the milk and whisk until well combined.
4. Pour the spiced milk mixture over the espresso, holding back the foam with a spoon.
5. If desired, add sugar to taste.
6. Top with the reserved foam and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Espresso Panna Cotta
Take your coffee game to the next level with this rich and creamy Espresso Panna Cotta. This Italian-inspired dessert is a perfect combination of bold espresso and velvety panna cotta, sure to impress any coffee lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 shot of strong espresso (about 1 ounce)
– Unflavored gelatin
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat and add the softened gelatin, stirring until fully dissolved.
4. Add the vanilla extract and espresso to the mixture, whisking until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Caramel Espresso Cheesecake
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and decadent Caramel Espresso Cheesecake. The perfect combination of smooth cheesecake, gooey caramel, and bold espresso will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce
– 1 shot espresso (about 1 tablespoon)
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
8. Top with whipped cream and chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
Espresso Granita with Whipped Cream
Experience the perfect balance of rich espresso and creamy whipped cream in this easy-to-make granita recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed espresso
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the espresso and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the water to the bowl and stir until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a shallow metal pan or a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Just before serving, whip the heavy whipping cream and softened butter in a medium bowl until stiff peaks form.
5. Scrape the granita with a fork to break up any ice crystals that have formed.
6. Serve the granita chilled, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 4 hours or overnight
Espresso Glazed Donuts
Elevate your donut game with this rich and decadent recipe, perfect for coffee lovers. The combination of tender donuts and a deep espresso glaze will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 shot espresso (cooled)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, milk, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and cooled espresso; mix until smooth.
4. Pipe or spoon the dough into rings and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden.
5. Remove donuts from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons water to create glaze.
7. Dip cooled donuts in glaze and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including frying time)
Espresso Macarons with Dark Chocolate Filling
Elevate your macaron game with this rich and intense combination of espresso-flavored shells and dark chocolate filling. Perfect for coffee lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
For the shells:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon espresso powder
– Food coloring (optional)
For the filling:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together almond flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar and espresso powder. Fold in food coloring (if using).
4. Sift the almond flour mixture over the egg mixture and gently fold until combined.
5. Pipe small rounds onto the prepared baking sheet. Tap to remove air bubbles.
6. Let shells sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking for 15-20 minutes or until firm to the touch.
7. Allow shells to cool completely before filling with melted dark chocolate mixed with heavy cream.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes per batch
Cold Brew Espresso Float
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on a classic float! By combining cold brew espresso, vanilla ice cream, and creamy whipped cream, you’ll create a delightful drink that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cold brew espresso
– 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
– 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
– Whipped cream topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a cup of cold brew espresso according to the package instructions.
2. Scoop 2 servings of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass or mug.
3. Pour the cold brew espresso over the ice cream, creating a layered effect.
4. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Add granulated sugar if desired for an extra touch of sweetness.
5. Top the float with the whipped cream and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing treat is ready in just minutes.
Espresso Rubbed Steak
Elevate your steak game with this bold and rich recipe that combines the deep flavors of espresso with a tender cut of beef.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
– 2 tbsp espresso powder
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together espresso powder, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the mixture all over the steak, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes
Espresso BBQ Sauce for Ribs
Elevate your rib game with this rich and intense espresso-infused BBQ sauce. Perfect for those who love a deep, smoky flavor with a hint of coffee.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons espresso powder
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, espresso powder, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– No cooking time needed! This sauce is ready to use straight from the fridge.
Espresso Spiced Hot Chocolate
Elevate your hot chocolate game with this rich and decadent recipe that combines the bold flavors of espresso, warm spices, and velvety milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or to taste)
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
2. Add the cocoa powder, espresso powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Remove from heat and stir in sugar until dissolved.
5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Espresso Infused Truffles
Elevate your dessert game with these rich and decadent espresso infused truffles, perfect for coffee lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying the perfect treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup instant espresso powder
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the softened butter, vanilla extract, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the espresso powder to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the butter mixture until fully incorporated.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth.
6. Pour the melted chocolate over the cream mixture and stir until a dough forms. Wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required, as this recipe is chilled.
Espresso Cinnamon Rolls
Elevate your breakfast routine with these rich and aromatic espresso-infused cinnamon rolls. Perfectly balanced between sweet and savory, they’re sure to start your day off right.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon instant espresso powder (or 1 tablespoon strong brewed espresso)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add melted butter, flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and espresso powder to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then place in a greased bowl to rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and roll out into a rectangle.
5. Roll up the dough tightly, cut into 12 equal pieces, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Espresso Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with a rich and decadent breakfast treat: Espresso Pancakes with Maple Syrup. These fluffy pancakes are infused with the bold flavor of espresso, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of pure Canadian maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 shots of espresso (about 1/4 cup)
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and espresso until well combined.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of rich, bold flavors with these decadent espresso recipes. From classic cocktails like the Espresso Martini and Tiramisu with a Double Shot, to sweet treats like Espresso Chocolate Mousse and Caramel Espresso Cheesecake, there’s something for every coffee lover. Plus, savory dishes like Espresso Rubbed Steak and Espresso BBQ Sauce for Ribs will elevate your culinary game. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy, crunchy, or boozy, these 18 recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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