Dessert might not be the first thing that comes to mind when firing up your smoker, but these Smoked Espresso Chocolate Skillet Brownies from our "Backyard Reivival" box prove that live-fire cooking can create unforgettable sweets just as easily as savory barbecue. The subtle smoke adds depth and warmth to rich chocolate, while the Cherry Street Espresso BBQ Sauce brings a bold layer of espresso richness and caramelized sweetness that takes these brownies far beyond ordinary boxed dessert territory.
Cooking brownies in a cast iron skillet also creates incredible texture. The edges develop a slightly crisp, chewy bite while the center stays soft, fudgy, and rich. Whether served warm right off the smoker or topped with vanilla ice cream after dinner, this recipe is a fun and unexpected way to showcase the versatility of barbecue flavors outside traditional meats and sides.
The key is restraint with smoke. Mild woods like cherry or pecan work best here (grab both cherry & pecan chunks in our fruitwood 2-pack, adding gentle depth without overpowering the chocolate. Combined with the espresso notes from the BBQ sauce, the final result is rich, balanced, and surprisingly refined for something cooked outdoors.
These rich, fudgy brownies are infused with Cherry Street Espresso BBQ Sauce and kissed with a subtle hint of smoke, delivering deep chocolate flavor with bold espresso richness in every bite.
Preheat your smoker to 325°F using a mild smoking wood such as cherry or pecan. Avoid heavier woods like mesquite, which can overpower the chocolate flavor.
Prepare the brownie batter according to the package directions in a large mixing bowl. Stir until fully combined and smooth.
Add Cherry Street Espresso BBQ Sauce and espresso powder if using, then mix gently until evenly incorporated throughout the batter. The espresso enhances the chocolate while adding subtle smoky depth.
Lightly grease a cast iron skillet or grill-safe baking dish, then pour in the brownie batter and spread evenly.
Place the skillet directly onto the smoker grates and cook for 30–40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly soft. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out with a few moist crumbs attached.
Carefully remove the skillet from the smoker and allow brownies to cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the brownies finish setting while keeping the center fudgy.
Serve warm on their own or top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent finish.
Recipe Note
Pro Tip: Use mild wood and clean smoke when cooking desserts. Too much heavy smoke can overpower the chocolate, while lighter woods add subtle depth that pairs perfectly with espresso and rich cocoa flavor.
