There’s something magical about the combination of coffee and chocolate, isn’t there? The rich, bold flavors of a Coffee Fudge Traybake can turn an ordinary day into a delightful experience. Whether you’re looking for a quick solution to satisfy your sweet tooth or a dessert to impress your friends at the next gathering, this recipe has you covered. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for those busy afternoons when you need a little pick-me-up. Trust me, once you try this fudgy treat, it will become a staple in your dessert repertoire!
Why You’ll Love This Coffee Fudge Traybake
This Coffee Fudge Traybake is a game-changer for dessert lovers. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights. The rich, fudgy texture paired with the robust coffee flavor creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. Plus, it bakes in just 30 minutes! You’ll have a delicious treat ready to share or savor all to yourself in no time.
Ingredients for Coffee Fudge Traybake
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Coffee Fudge Traybake masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:
All-purpose flour: This forms the base of your traybake, giving it structure and a soft texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! It balances the bitterness of the coffee and cocoa.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: This adds that rich chocolate flavor, making every bite indulgent.
Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the traybake rise, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to create that perfect lift.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, making them pop.
Unsalted butter: Adds moisture and richness; melted for easy mixing.
Brewed coffee: The star of the show! It infuses the traybake with a deep, aromatic flavor.
Large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and contribute to the fudgy texture.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: These little gems melt into the batter, creating pockets of gooey chocolate.
For those looking to switch things up, consider adding a tablespoon of instant coffee granules for an extra mocha kick. You can also top your traybake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache for that extra flair. Exact measurements for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Coffee Fudge Traybake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Coffee Fudge Traybake bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan. Grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper. This little trick makes removing the traybake a breeze later on. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself when it’s time to serve!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined; this is crucial for a uniform texture. The cocoa powder will give your traybake that rich chocolate flavor, while the baking powder and soda will help it rise beautifully. Take a moment to enjoy the chocolatey aroma wafting up as you mix!
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the melted unsalted butter, cooled brewed coffee, large eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. The melted butter should blend seamlessly with the other ingredients, creating a luscious mixture. The coffee is the secret weapon here, adding depth to the flavor. Don’t rush this step; a well-mixed wet mixture is key to a fudgy texture in your Coffee Fudge Traybake.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, and we want that fudgy goodness! This is where the magic starts to happen, as the ingredients come together to form a rich batter.
Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. These little morsels will melt into the batter, creating pockets of gooey chocolate throughout your traybake. Use a spatula to carefully incorporate them without overworking the batter. This step is where you can really get excited; those chocolate chips are going to elevate your Coffee Fudge Traybake to a whole new level!
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The aroma of coffee and chocolate will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the traybake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps it set up nicely. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut it into squares and serve. You can enjoy it plain or dress it up with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache. Either way, it’s sure to impress!
Tips for Success
Measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
Don’t skip the parchment paper; it makes removal easy.
Let the coffee cool before mixing to avoid cooking the eggs.
Check for doneness a few minutes early to prevent overbaking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Equipment Needed
Baking pan: A 9×13 inch pan is ideal, but an 8×8 inch pan works too for thicker squares.
Mixing bowls: Use two medium-sized bowls for mixing wet and dry ingredients.
Whisk: A standard whisk or fork will do for combining ingredients.
Spatula: A rubber spatula is perfect for folding in chocolate chips.
Wire rack: If you don’t have one, a plate can work for cooling.
Variations
Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the fudgy base.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this treat suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Vegan Twist: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based butter alternative.
Minty Fresh: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing mint flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the batter for a surprising warmth that enhances the coffee flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream on the side adds a creamy contrast.
Drizzle with Ganache: A rich chocolate ganache drizzle elevates the presentation and flavor.
Serve with Coffee: Complement your traybake with a fresh cup of brewed coffee for a delightful pairing.
Garnish with Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top for added texture and visual appeal.
FAQs about Coffee Fudge Traybake
Can I use decaf coffee for this recipe? Absolutely! If you prefer a caffeine-free option, decaf coffee works just as well. The flavor will still shine through, giving you that delicious coffee taste without the buzz.
How should I store leftover Coffee Fudge Traybake? To keep your traybake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.
Can I freeze Coffee Fudge Traybake? Yes! This traybake freezes beautifully. Just wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll be good for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe? If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try using 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a mashed banana for each egg. This will keep your Coffee Fudge Traybake moist and delicious!
Can I add other flavors to the Coffee Fudge Traybake? Definitely! Feel free to experiment with flavors like hazelnut or caramel. Just add a teaspoon of your favorite extract to the wet ingredients for a delightful twist.
Final Thoughts
Creating a Coffee Fudge Traybake is more than just baking; it’s about crafting a moment of joy. The rich aroma of coffee and chocolate wafting through your kitchen can instantly lift your spirits. Each fudgy square is a little piece of happiness, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring during a quiet moment. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a delightful way to indulge your sweet tooth. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the delicious rewards of your efforts. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
