Classic Finnish Mocha Brownies (Mokkapalat)

Published: 7/31/2026

The most popular party treat in Finland. These aren’t heavy like American brownies; they are a light, cocoa-infused sheet cake topped with a rich, coffee-flavored glaze and festive sprinkles.

Ingredients (24 pieces)

The Cake

• 2 sticks (1 cup / 225 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 4 large eggs
• 1.5 cups (300 g) granulated sugar
• 2.5 cups (310 g) all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp (25 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp (8 g) baking powder
• 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup (180 ml) milk

The Mocha Glaze

• 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar
• 5 tbsp (70 g) melted butter
• 5 tbsp (75 ml) hot, strong brewed coffee
• 2 tbsp (25 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• Rainbow sprinkles (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12x17 inch rimmed baking sheet (half-sheet pan) with parchment paper.
2. Whisk eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix the dry ingredients (flour, cocoa, baking powder) together.
4. Alternately add the dry ingredients, melted butter, and milk into the egg mixture. Stir until smooth.
5. Pour the batter onto the baking sheet and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 15–20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
7. Make the glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, cocoa, melted butter, and hot coffee until smooth and glossy.
8. Pour the glaze over the cooled cake and spread quickly with a spatula.
9. Immediately top with sprinkles before the glaze sets. Cut into squares once the glaze is firm.

Pro Tips

• Oven Temp: We use 350°F (175°C) for American ovens to ensure an even bake across the entire sheet pan without burning the edges.
• Strong Coffee: Use a very strong brew or a shot of espresso for the glaze to ensure the mocha flavor shines through the sugar.
• Sprinkle Fast: The glaze sets quickly! Have your sprinkles ready to go the second you finish spreading the frosting.

See Also

• Authentic Swedish Cardamom Buns (Nordic Baking Made Easy)
• Classic Baked Lemon Cheesecake
• Classic Nordic Blueberry Pie (Mustikkapiirakka)

Categories: baking, desserts