If you'd really like to, you can replace the instant espresso and water with 2 tbsp freshly brewed espresso. However, I don't recommend this! I've tried this recipe with freshly brewed espresso, and it just wasn't strong enough to stand out with the chocolate. Using 1 tbsp instant espresso to 2 tbsp water gives a much stronger coffee flavor than regular brewed espresso. A happy medium would be to use 2 tbsp of freshly brewed espresso with 1-2 tsp espresso or coffee powder.