Deep, dark brownies can transport one from the mundane to the sublime. Add a touch of instant espresso coffee powder and you'll find yourself in espresso heaven!

Deep Dark Espresso Brownies

1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
3/4 cup butter, melted
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup instant espresso coffee powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup powdered sugar

1. Preheat oven to 375º F (175º C). Lightly butter and flour a 9-inch square baking pan; set aside.
2. Beat brown sugar, butter and granulated sugar in a medium mixing bowl. Add eggs, vanilla and salt. Beat until well blended. Stir in espresso powder, flour and baking powder, mixing until smooth. Fold in chocolate chips.
3. Pour batter into prepared baking pan. Bake for 30 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool completely in pan. Lightly dust top with powdered sugar and cut into bars.

Makes 24 bars.