If you have a soft spot for classic desserts with a twist, this Tiramisu Brownies Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Combining the rich, fudgy texture of homemade brownies with the creamy, coffee-soaked charm of tiramisu, this dessert delivers the best of both worlds in every bite. It’s an irresistible treat that’s perfect for impressing guests or indulging on a cozy night in, making it a standout recipe that beautifully balances deep cocoa flavor with a luscious mascarpone cream layering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may look straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in your Tiramisu Brownies Recipe. From the fudgy cocoa to the delicate coffee-dipped ladyfingers, every component counts.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Melted and cooled to add richness and moistness to the brownies.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup): Provides sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
- Light brown sugar (â…“ cup): Adds a touch of caramel flavor and moist texture.
- Large eggs (2): At room temperature for better emulsification and structure.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and intensifies chocolate flavor.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (½ cup): The heart of the brownies’ rich chocolate taste.
- All-purpose flour (â…“ cup): Provides structure without making the brownies heavy.
- Espresso powder (1 teaspoon): Intensifies the chocolate flavor with subtle coffee undertones.
- Ladyfingers (12): Light, crisp biscuits perfect for soaking up coffee in the tiramisu layer.
- Hot brewed coffee (1 cup): Adds that signature tiramisu kick and soaks into the ladyfingers.
- Mascarpone cheese (8 ounces): Smooth and creamy, the foundation of the tiramisu topping.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): Whipped to soft peaks for a light, airy mascarpone mixture.
- Powdered sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the cream mixture perfectly without graininess.
- Pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (2 teaspoons): Adds a natural vanilla depth to the creamy topping.
- Instant espresso powder (1 teaspoon, optional): For an extra boost of coffee flavor in the cream.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1 tablespoon): For dusting just before serving to finish the dessert elegantly.
How to Make Tiramisu Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C), or 320°F (160°C) if you have a fan oven for an even bake. Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later. This prep ensures your brownies won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
Whisk together melted butter and both sugars until the mix becomes smooth and luscious. Add the eggs, vanilla, and salt, continuing to whisk until everything is fully blended. Sift the cocoa powder, flour, and espresso powder into the bowl and gently fold with a spatula until no dry spots remain. This gentle folding helps keep the brownies tender and fudgy instead of cakey.
Step 3: Bake the Brownies
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for about 15 minutes, just until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs attached. Don’t overbake here; these brownies need to stay soft as they’re the base of your tiramisu masterpiece. Allow them to cool completely in the pan.
Step 4: Add the Tiramisu Layer
Pour your hot brewed coffee into a shallow bowl. Quickly dip each ladyfinger, just enough to moisten without soaking, and place them evenly over the cooled brownies. This soaking technique is essential—it infuses the dessert with that classic tiramisu coffee flavor without turning the base soggy.
Step 5: Make the Mascarpone Cream
Whisk the mascarpone cheese in a bowl until smooth and creamy. In another bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar, vanilla, and optional espresso powder until soft peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone to create a smooth, airy cream that tastes like pure decadence on the tongue.
Step 6: Assemble and Chill
Spread the mascarpone cream over the ladyfinger layer evenly. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial to let the layers set and flavors meld together, ensuring you get that luscious tiramisu texture and taste.
Step 7: Finish and Serve the Tiramisu Brownies Recipe
Just before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder for that classic tiramisu finish. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire dessert from the pan, then cut into squares and enjoy the perfect marriage of brownie and tiramisu in every bite.
How to Serve Tiramisu Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of cocoa powder is classic, but feel free to get creative. Fresh coffee beans, a sprinkle of shaved dark chocolate, or even a few chocolate-covered espresso beans add texture and an extra coffee punch that elevates presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
Tiramisu Brownies are indulgent enough on their own, but serving with a simple side like freshly brewed espresso, a scoop of vanilla gelato, or some fresh berries balances richness and refreshes the palate delightfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve individual portions layered in clear glasses to showcase the brownie and creamy layers. Alternatively, a drizzle of coffee-infused chocolate sauce over each piece can add a gourmet touch that impresses your guests at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover leftover Tiramisu Brownies tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making leftovers even better than fresh.
Freezing
These brownies freeze well for up to 1 month. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to maintain the creamy texture without separation.
Reheating
Since tiramisu layers are best enjoyed chilled, avoid microwaving to reheat. Instead, serve them cold or at room temperature. If you prefer warm brownies, try warming just the brownie base before assembling the layers.
FAQs
Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?
Yes, you can dissolve instant coffee in hot water as a substitute. Just be sure the coffee is strong and hot to achieve that bold coffee flavor that’s essential for the tiramisu element.
What if I can’t find ladyfingers?
Ladyfingers are traditional, but sponge cake or even thin pound cake slices can work in a pinch. Just ensure whatever you use soaks up the coffee without becoming mushy.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, and check that your ladyfingers are gluten-free or use a gluten-free cake alternative.
Is espresso powder necessary?
Espresso powder enhances the chocolate and coffee flavor, but it’s optional. You can omit it or use a bit more brewed coffee if you prefer a less intense coffee taste.
How long should I chill before serving?
At least 2 hours is best to allow the mascarpone cream to set and the flavors to meld beautifully. Overnight chilling will intensify the taste even more.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Tiramisu Brownies Recipe will quickly earn a permanent spot in your dessert rotation. It’s the perfect celebration of two beloved classics wrapped into one unforgettable bite. So grab those ingredients, get baking, and prepare to wow yourself and anyone lucky enough to share these decadent delights with you.
Print
Tiramisu Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
These Tiramisu Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the creamy, coffee-infused flavors of traditional tiramisu. This decadent dessert features a layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers topped with a smooth mascarpone cream, perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a sophisticated treat.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 4 tablespoons (56 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- â…“ cup (75 g) light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (45 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- â…“ cup (40 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder
Tiramisu Layer
- 12 ladyfingers (savoiardi biscuits)
- 1 cup (240 ml) hot brewed coffee
Mascarpone Cream
- 8 ounces (225 g) mascarpone cheese, at room temperature
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (or 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste)
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional, for stronger flavor)
For Dusting
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C), or 320°F (160°C) if using a fan oven. Grease and line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal of the brownies.
- Make the Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until smooth and fully combined. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt, whisking well until fully incorporated. Sift in the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and espresso powder. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet using a spatula, mixing just until no dry spots remain.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
- Add the Tiramisu Layer: Pour the hot brewed coffee into a shallow bowl. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee, making sure both sides are moistened but not soaking wet to prevent sogginess. Arrange the dipped ladyfingers in a single, even layer over the cooled brownies in the pan.
- Make the Mascarpone Cream: In a medium bowl, whisk or beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and optional espresso powder to soft peaks. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Assemble and Chill: Spread the mascarpone cream evenly over the layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers. Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the tiramisu layer to set and chill thoroughly.
- Finish and Serve: Just before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu brownies with unsweetened cocoa powder. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan, slice into 12 servings, and enjoy this luscious fusion dessert.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature eggs and mascarpone to ensure a smooth batter and cream.
- Do not soak ladyfingers too long in coffee to avoid a soggy dessert layer; a quick dip on each side is sufficient.
- The optional espresso powder in the cream intensifies coffee flavor but can be omitted for a milder taste.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Use strong brewed coffee or espresso for the most authentic tiramisu flavor.
