Coffee Bar Recipe

Coffee Bar Recipe

ByLila

I’ve been chasing that perfect coffee shop vibe at home ever since I took my first bite of a coffee bar at a cozy little café down the street. The way the rich coffee flavor melted into sweet, chewy goodness with a hint of chocolate—it was love at first taste! I couldn’t stop thinking about recreating it. After a few messy kitchen experiments (and maybe one too many “taste tests”), I crafted a recipe that’s just as indulgent but super easy to whip up.

This coffee bar recipe is my go-to for satisfying cravings or impressing friends with minimal effort. It’s got that bold coffee kick, a soft, buttery texture, and just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re a die-hard coffee lover like me or simply looking for a new dessert to try, these bars bring all the café charm to your kitchen. Let’s get baking and make something irresistible together!

Coffee Bar

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp instant coffee granules (dissolved in 1 tbsp hot water)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
  • 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep: Fire up your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Trust me, this makes cleanup a breeze!
  2. Cream the Base: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with a hand mixer until fluffy, about 2 minutes. It should look light and creamy—don’t rush this part!
  3. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the eggs, dissolved coffee, and vanilla extract. The coffee gives it that bold flavor, so make sure it’s well-blended.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix—it keeps the bars soft.
  5. Fold in Goodies: Stir in chocolate chips and walnuts (if using). The chips add gooey pockets of sweetness, and walnuts bring a nice crunch.
  6. Bake It: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
  7. Add the Topping: Drizzle sweetened condensed milk over the cooled bars. Spread it gently for a glossy, sweet finish. Let it set for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares.

Pro Cooking Tips

  • Use room-temperature butter for a smoother batter.
  • Dissolve coffee granules completely to avoid gritty texture.
  • For cleaner cuts, chill the bars for 15 minutes before slicing.
  • Toast walnuts lightly before adding for extra flavor.
  • Don’t skip the parchment paper—it’s a lifesaver for sticky bars!

Variations

  • Mocha Bars: Swap half the chocolate chips for white chocolate chips.
  • Nut-Free: Skip walnuts or replace with crushed pretzels for crunch.
  • Espresso Kick: Use espresso powder instead of instant coffee for a stronger flavor.
  • Vegan Twist: Use plant-based butter, flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg), and vegan condensed milk.

Storage Suggestions

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Fridge: Keep refrigerated for up to a week. Let them sit out for 10 minutes before serving for the best texture.
  • Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

How to Serve

Serve these coffee bars with a hot latte or cappuccino for the ultimate coffeehouse vibe. They’re great as a dessert, afternoon snack, or even a sweet breakfast treat (no judgment!). For a fancy touch, dust with powdered sugar or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Cut into small squares for a party platter or larger ones for a cozy night in.

Nutrition Facts (Per Bar, Based on 16 Servings)

  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Fat: 16g (Saturated: 9g)
  • Carbohydrates: 32g (Sugars: 22g)
  • Protein: 4g
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Fiber: 1g

Note: Nutrition varies based on ingredients and portion size.

FAQs

Can I use decaf coffee?
Absolutely! Decaf instant coffee works just as well for the same rich flavor.

What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?
You can skip it or drizzle melted white chocolate for a similar sweet topping.

How do I make these gluten-free?
Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Check your other ingredients for gluten-free certification.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan and increase baking time by 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it.

Why are my bars crumbly?
Overmixing or overbaking can cause this. Mix until just combined and check for doneness early.

Conclusion

This coffee bar recipe is your ticket to a café-worthy dessert without leaving home. With its chewy texture, bold coffee flavor, and chocolatey goodness, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic version or try a fun variation, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. So, grab your ingredients, brew a fresh cup of coffee, and enjoy the process of making something delicious. Happy baking, and let me know how yours turn out!

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