I love how this coffee sauce turns simple desserts into something rich and comforting. I make it with basic pantry ingredients, and the deep coffee flavor mixed with butter and vanilla gives it a smooth, café-style finish that works beautifully on cakes, ice cream, or even pancakes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it is quick, simple, and full of bold coffee flavor. I don’t need any special equipment, and I can make it in just a few minutes. I also enjoy how versatile it is, since I can drizzle it over desserts or use it as a flavor boost for breakfast treats.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
I start by brewing strong coffee and setting it aside. I melt the butter gently in a small saucepan over low heat. Once the butter is melted, I pour in the brewed coffee and stir to combine. I let the mixture simmer gently for a few minutes so the flavors come together. I remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. I let the sauce cool slightly before serving so it thickens just a bit.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 4 to 6 servings from this recipe, depending on how generously I pour it.
Preparation time: about 5 minutes
Cooking time: about 5 to 10 minutes
Total time: about 15 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add a spoon of brown sugar or honey when I want a sweeter sauce. I also like mixing in a splash of cream for a richer, creamier texture. When I want a deeper flavor, I add a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover coffee sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When I want to use it again, I reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well to bring back the smooth texture.
FAQs
Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?
I can use instant coffee, but I dissolve it in hot water first and make it strong so the flavor doesn’t get lost.
Is this sauce very sweet?
I find this sauce is not very sweet on its own, which I like. I adjust sweetness by adding sugar or pairing it with sweet desserts.
What desserts go best with coffee sauce?
I enjoy it over angel food cake, vanilla ice cream, pancakes, waffles, or even brownies.
Can I make this sauce dairy-free?
I can replace the butter with a plant-based alternative to make it dairy-free.
Does the sauce thicken as it cools?
I notice it thickens slightly as it cools, but it stays pourable and smooth.
Conclusion
I love keeping this coffee sauce recipe on hand because it is fast, flexible, and full of rich flavor. I make it whenever I want to add a warm coffee note to my desserts, and it never fails to elevate even the simplest treat.
This quick and easy coffee sauce combines strong brewed coffee, butter, and vanilla for a rich, café-style drizzle perfect for desserts like cake, ice cream, or pancakes.
Ingredients
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Brew strong coffee and set aside.
In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
Pour in the coffee and stir to combine.
Simmer gently for 5–10 minutes to reduce slightly and blend flavors.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Let cool slightly before serving; sauce will thicken a bit as it cools.
Notes
Add 1–2 tbsp brown sugar or honey for sweetness if desired.
Stir in a splash of cream or pinch of cinnamon for variation.
Store leftovers in the fridge up to 5 days and reheat before serving.
