Get ready to fall in love with a dessert that brings together two classics in a sensational way. This Tiramisu Brownies Recipe combines the rich, fudgy goodness of homemade brownies with the creamy, coffee-infused essence of tiramisu. If you adore brownies but also crave that light, fluffy mascarpone layer and espresso punch of tiramisu, this recipe is truly a match made in heaven. It’s an irresistible treat that’ll elevate your dessert game and wow everyone at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Though this recipe may seem indulgent, the ingredients are refreshingly simple and straightforward. Each component plays a crucial role: butter and dark chocolate create that luscious brownie base, while mascarpone and heavy cream build the silky tiramisu topping. The dual presence of espresso infuses the perfect amount of coffee flavor, ensuring every bite is a harmony of chocolate and caffeine bliss.
- 113 g unsalted butter: Provides richness and helps create that fudgy texture in the brownies.
- 200 g dark chocolate: The star ingredient delivering intense chocolate flavor and smoothness.
- 100 g brown sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel undertone to the brownies.
- 50 g granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and contributes to the shiny crust.
- 3 eggs: Bind all ingredients and add structure for a perfect chewy bite.
- 90 g all-purpose flour (sifted): Keeps the brownies tender while providing necessary support.
- A pinch of salt: Enhances the chocolate’s flavor, cutting through the sweetness.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the brownie batter.
- 2 shots espresso or instant coffee: Infuses true tiramisu flavor directly into the brownies.
- 250 g mascarpone cheese (room temperature): Creates the creamy, velvety tiramisu layer.
- 240 ml heavy cream: Whipped to soft peaks for lightness and airy texture.
- 50 g sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone mixture just right.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness in the mascarpone topping.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Brings vanilla’s mellow fragrance to the cream layer.
- 2 tbsp espresso powder: Mixed in for that signature coffee kick in the topping.
- Cocoa powder for dusting: Finishes the dessert with a beautiful, bitter contrast.
How to Make Tiramisu Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8 or 9-inch baking tin with parchment paper. This simple prep ensures your brownies don’t stick and helps achieve those perfectly clean edges, which are practically begging you to take that first bite.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate and unsalted butter together using 30-second intervals, stirring in between until silky smooth. This mixture forms the luscious, fudgy base that’ll make your brownies melt in your mouth.
Step 3: Sweeten the Batter
Stir in both brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is well combined. The combination of these sugars adds complexity, moisture, and that crackly top crust you’ll adore.
Step 4: Add the Eggs
Incorporate the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition. This step ensures the batter becomes smooth and well emulsified, which is crucial for achieving the perfect brownie texture.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in the sifted flour and a pinch of salt until just combined. Overmixing here can make the brownies tough, so keep it light. The flour provides necessary structure while the salt sharpens all the flavors beautifully.
Step 6: Bake the Brownies
Pour your rich batter into the prepared baking tin and smooth the top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the edges are set but the center still looks slightly soft. This ensures your brownies stay moist and fudgy rather than cakey and dry.
Step 7: Espresso Injection
Once baked, poke holes all over the brownies using a skewer or fork. Slowly pour the two shots of espresso over the warm brownies so the coffee seeps right in. This step is what transforms your brownies into tiramisu brownies, soaking them with the deep, aromatic essence of espresso for that unmistakable flavor.
Step 8: Prepare the Mascarpone Topping
While the brownies cool, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. In a separate bowl, mix mascarpone cheese, sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and espresso powder until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, creating a luscious, airy layer that is pure tiramisu magic.
Step 9: Assemble and Chill
Spread the mascarpone cream evenly over the coffee-soaked brownies. Dust the top generously with cocoa powder, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling step melds all flavors together, creating that signature tiramisu texture and taste in brownie form.
How to Serve Tiramisu Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Serving these tiramisu brownies with a simple sprinkle of cocoa powder is classic, but you can also add chocolate shavings, crushed dark chocolate, or even a few coffee beans for that added visual appeal and aroma. Fresh mint leaves offer a lovely pop of color and a contrasting freshness.
Side Dishes
Pair your tiramisu brownies with a scoop of vanilla gelato or a drizzle of espresso syrup for an indulgent coffeehouse vibe at home. A small bowl of fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar alongside helps balance the richness with a fruity lift.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in clear glasses as layered tiramisu brownie parfaits by crumbling brownie pieces and alternating them with mascarpone cream. Or cut into bite-sized squares and stack them for a dramatic dessert tower. Presentation can make this Tiramisu Brownies Recipe feel special for any celebration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These brownies keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The mascarpone topping can soften the brownies over time, making each bite creamier and more decadent as it sits.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the brownies without the mascarpone layer first. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Once ready to serve, thaw completely in the fridge, then add the mascarpone cream freshly made before serving.
Reheating
Since tiramisu is best enjoyed chilled, avoid reheating to preserve the creamy texture. However, if preferred slightly warm, gently let the brownies sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. This softens the brownie layers without melting the mascarpone topping.
FAQs
Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso shots?
Absolutely! Instant coffee works perfectly for this recipe. Just dissolve it in a little hot water to mimic the strength and intensity of espresso before pouring over the brownies.
Is mascarpone cheese necessary for the topping?
Mascarpone is essential for that authentic tiramisu flavor and creamy texture. While cream cheese can be a substitute in a pinch, it won’t achieve the same lightness and richness.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
The edges should look set and slightly pulled away from the pan while the center remains soft but not liquid. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Be sure to sift it and fold gently to maintain the tender brownie texture.
What’s the best way to cut these brownies without ruining the topping?
Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This helps create clean cuts through the mascarpone layer without smudging or cracking it.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been on the hunt for a dessert that brings together the best of both worlds, your search ends here. This Tiramisu Brownies Recipe delivers intense chocolate fudge and coffee-flavored cream in every single bite, brightening your day and impressing your guests with its charm. Give it a try — I promise it will become a beloved staple in your dessert rotation.
Print
Tiramisu Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Decadent Tiramisu Brownies that combine rich dark chocolate and coffee-soaked layers with a creamy mascarpone topping, perfect for coffee and dessert lovers looking for a sophisticated twist on classic brownies.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 113 g unsalted butter
- 200 g dark chocolate
- 100 g brown sugar
- 50 g granulated sugar
- 3 eggs
- 90 g all-purpose flour (sifted)
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 shots espresso or instant coffee
Mascarpone Cream Topping
- 250 g mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
- 240 ml heavy cream
- 50 g sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp espresso powder
Finishing
- Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8 or 9-inch baking tin with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chopped dark chocolate and unsalted butter. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Add Sugars: Stir in both the brown sugar and granulated sugar into the melted chocolate and butter mixture until well combined and smooth.
- Incorporate Eggs: Add eggs one at a time to the mixture, whisking thoroughly after each addition to create a smooth, glossy batter.
- Fold in Dry Ingredients: Gently fold sifted all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt into the batter until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the brownies.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Infuse with Espresso: Once the brownies are baked, while still warm, poke holes all over the surface using a skewer or fork. Pour the two shots of espresso or prepared instant coffee evenly over the brownies, allowing the coffee to soak in as they cool completely.
- Prepare Mascarpone Cream: In a mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and espresso powder. Whip with an electric mixer until you achieve stiff peaks and a creamy, fluffy consistency.
- Assemble and Chill: Spread the mascarpone cream evenly over the cooled, espresso-soaked brownies. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and cream to set.
- Serve: Dust the top generously with cocoa powder just before serving. Cut into 12 squares and enjoy your rich, coffee-infused tiramisu brownies.
Notes
- Use good quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa) for the best flavor.
- Poking holes and pouring espresso over the brownies while warm ensures they absorb the coffee flavor deeply.
- If you prefer a stronger coffee taste, you can add an extra tablespoon of espresso powder to the mascarpone cream.
- Ensure mascarpone and heavy cream are well chilled before whipping for best texture.
- Brownies can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
