Print

Easy Espresso Swirl Bars Recipe: Rich Coffee Flavor in Every Bite

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Easy Espresso Swirl Bars are soft and buttery dessert bars featuring a rich espresso swirl throughout the batter. Perfect for coffee lovers, these bakery-style bars offer the ideal balance of sweetness and bold espresso flavor.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 32 minutes
  • Total Time: 47 minutes
  • Yield: 16 bars 1x
  • Category: Dessert

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
  • 1 tablespoon hot water
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for swirl)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Mix espresso powder, hot water, and brown sugar until smooth.
  3. Cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
  5. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together.
  6. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until combined.
  7. Spread two-thirds of the batter into the prepared pan.
  8. Spoon espresso mixture over the batter.
  9. Add remaining batter in dollops.
  10. Use a knife to gently swirl the espresso mixture.
  11. Bake for 28–35 minutes until lightly golden.
  12. Cool completely before slicing into bars.

Notes

  • Use quality espresso powder for the richest flavor.
  • Allow ingredients to reach room temperature before mixing.
  • Do not overmix the batter.
  • Chocolate chips make an excellent addition.
  • Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Serve with coffee, tea, or vanilla ice cream.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipeshots.com/easy-espresso-swirl-bars/