There’s a certain joy that comes with discovering a dessert that combines two of your favorite treats. Imagine sinking your teeth into a piece of rich, chocolatey brownie, only to find a delightful surprise of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and velvety mascarpone cream layered on top. These Tiramisu Brownies are precisely that—an indulgent twist on two beloved classics, offering a heavenly balance of flavors and textures.
As I whipped up this recipe after an afternoon of coffee with friends, I couldn’t help but think how perfect it would be for my next gathering. It’s a luxurious dessert that looks impressively fancy but is surprisingly simple to prepare. With hints of coffee swirling through each fudgy bite and that signature tiramisu creaminess, these brownies can turn any ordinary moment into a celebration. Ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive into these extraordinary Tiramisu Brownies!
Why are Tiramisu Brownies a must-try?
Indulgence awaits: Tiramisu brownies combine two beloved desserts, delivering layered satisfaction in every bite.
Unique twist: Fudgy chocolate meets the lightness of mascarpone, creating an unforgettable treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Crowd-pleasing: Ideal for gatherings, these brownies impress with their rich flavors and elegant presentation.
Quick prep: Despite their fancy appearance, they’re surprisingly easy to make—perfect for budding home bakers!
Versatile delight: Feel free to experiment with flavors or toppings, ensuring each batch can be uniquely yours.
Tiramisu Brownies Ingredients
For the Brownie Base
• Dark or Semi-Sweet Chocolate (100 g) – Provides rich chocolate flavor; substitute with milk chocolate for a sweeter result.
• Natural Cocoa Powder (50 g) – Enhances chocolate intensity; use Dutch-process cocoa for a deeper color and flavor.
• Unsalted Butter (230 g) – Adds moisture and richness; can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Large Eggs (4) – Binds ingredients and helps create structure; no substitution recommended for best results.
• Granulated Sugar (150 g) – Sweetens the brownie; alternative: coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
• Brown Sugar (100 g) – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor; use more granulated sugar if unavailable.
• All-Purpose Flour (100 g) – Provides structure; gluten-free flour blend can be used as an alternative.
For the Tiramisu Layer
• Mascarpone Cheese (250 g) – Forms a creamy topping; substitute with cream cheese blended with heavy cream if necessary.
• Whipping Cream (200 g) – Lightens the mascarpone layer; can be replaced with coconut cream for a non-dairy option.
• Powdered Sugar (50 g) – Sweetens and stabilizes mascarpone cream; no substitute recommended.
• Vanilla Extract (½ teaspoon) – Adds aromatic flavor; use pure vanilla for the best taste.
• Espresso Powder (2 teaspoons) – Infuses coffee flavor into the ladyfingers; instant coffee may be used as a substitute.
• Hot Water (150 g) – Helps dissolve espresso powder for soaking; no substitute necessary.
• Coffee Liqueur or Dark Rum (1 tablespoon, optional) – Adds depth of flavor; omit for a non-alcoholic version.
• Ladyfingers (12) – Forms the tiramisu layer and is crucial for texture; homemade or store-bought can be used.
• Cocoa Powder (1 tablespoon, for dusting) – Finishing touch for flavor and decoration.
Indulge in these Tiramisu Brownies and impress your friends and family with this delightful dessert that blends the best of both worlds!
How to Make Tiramisu Brownies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×9″ baking pan by lining it with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal of your delectable brownies later on!
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Mix chopped dark or semi-sweet chocolate with cocoa powder in a bowl; set aside. This chocolate mixture will become the heart of your fudgy brownie base.
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Brown the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it’s golden and aromatic. Combine it with the chocolate mixture and let it cool before proceeding to the next steps.
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Whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a separate bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. This helps create a wonderful texture for your brownies.
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Fold the cooled chocolate mixture into the egg mix, careful not to deflate the air you’ve incorporated. Gradually add in the flour, mixing until just combined.
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Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly. Bake for 28-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
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Cool the brownies completely in the pan on a wire rack before preparing the creamy mascarpone topping. This is essential to prevent melting!
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Whip the mascarpone cheese in a mixing bowl until creamy. Add the whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, whipping until thickened and fluffy.
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Prepare the espresso soak by combining espresso powder with hot water. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into this mixture, making sure not to let them soak too long.
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Layer the soaked ladyfingers on top of the cooled brownies. Spread the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
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Dust the top with cocoa powder after chilling, then slice into squares. Remember to wipe the knife between cuts for those clean edges!
Optional: Serve with your favorite coffee drink for the perfect pairing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Tiramisu Brownies are an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their rich flavors with less hassle. You can prepare the brownie base up to 24 hours in advance by baking and cooling them completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. Additionally, the mascarpone cream can also be whipped and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To assemble, simply layer the soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream on the brownies just before serving to maintain that delightful texture. This way, you’ll always have a decadent dessert ready for gatherings or a sweet treat after a busy day!
Tips for the Best Tiramisu Brownies
- Cool Completely: Make sure your brownies are fully cooled before adding the mascarpone layer to prevent it from melting and sliding off.
- Quick Soak: Dip ladyfingers only briefly in the espresso mixture—too long will make them overly soggy, compromising the texture of the tiramisu brownies.
- Precision Matters: Use a kitchen scale to measure ingredients like flour and sugar accurately; even slight variations can alter the brownie’s texture.
- Choose Quality: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate for a richer flavor in your brownies, ensuring a decadent chocolate experience.
- Creative Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Try different flavored extracts or liqueurs to customize your tiramisu brownies to suit your taste.
How to Store and Freeze Tiramisu Brownies
Fridge: Keep your tiramisu brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their fresh taste and creamy texture.
Freezer: If you’d like to enjoy them later, wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For the best experience, allow brownies to thaw in the fridge overnight, then bring to room temperature before serving to enhance the flavors.
Serving Tip: Before serving chilled brownies, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This optimal warming will elevate their taste and texture!
Tiramisu Brownies Variations
Get ready to explore exciting twists on this classic dessert that will tantalize your taste buds!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute mascarpone and whipping cream with coconut cream for a luscious, vegan-friendly option.
- Nutty Twist: Stir in ½ cup of chopped hazelnuts or almonds into the brownie batter for added crunch and flavor.
- Coffee-Flavored: Replace the espresso powder with brewed coffee in the ladyfinger soak to amplify the coffee experience.
- Caramel Drizzle: Top your brownies with a swirl of caramel sauce before adding the mascarpone cream for an indulgent finish.
- Flavor Boost: Try adding 1 teaspoon of almond or hazelnut extract to the brownie mix for a fragrant twist that enhances the chocolate and coffee.
- Spicy Kick: Dust with a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon on top of the cocoa powder for an unexpected and delightful heat.
- Fruit Fusion: Layer with fresh raspberries or strawberries between the brownies and mascarpone to brighten the flavor profile with a delicious tartness.
- Alcohol-Free: Omit the coffee liqueur or dark rum and replace with 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract for a rich, vanilla-infused treat perfect for all ages.
What to Serve with Tiramisu Brownies?
Indulging in these rich brownies opens the door to endless delightful pairings that enhance your dessert experience.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a tart contrast, balancing the sweetness and richness of the brownies beautifully.
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Espresso: A shot of bold espresso awakens the coffee notes in your brownies, creating a delightful harmony that coffee lovers will adore.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coldness of vanilla ice cream melts into the warm brownie, adding a luscious texture that takes every bite over the top.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of airy whipped cream softens the decadent layers, giving a lightness that perfectly complements the fudgy brownie base.
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Dark Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling rich dark chocolate sauce on top intensifies the chocolate flavor, making for a truly decadent treat.
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Hazelnut Liqueur: For an adult twist, pair with a glass of hazelnut liqueur, its nutty notes enhancing your brownie’s flavors without overpowering them.
These suggestions transform your already impressive tiramisu brownies into a multi-sensory dessert experience perfect for gatherings or an intimate indulgence!
Tiramisu Brownies Recipe FAQs
What type of chocolate should I use for the brownies?
Absolutely, I recommend using dark or semi-sweet chocolate for a rich flavor. You can substitute with milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter brownie, but it will change the overall taste!
How long can I store Tiramisu Brownies in the fridge?
You can keep your tiramisu brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They taste best when allowed to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for optimal richness and texture.
Can I freeze Tiramisu Brownies?
Yes! To freeze, wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight and allow them to come to room temperature before serving for an enhanced flavor experience.
What if my ladyfingers become too soggy?
Very good question! To prevent sogginess, quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture for no more than a second or two. If they’re left in for too long, they will disintegrate and negatively affect the texture of your tiramisu brownies.
Are Tiramisu Brownies safe for those with dietary restrictions?
While this recipe contains gluten and dairy, it’s possible to make adjustments. Use gluten-free flour and consider substituting mascarpone with a blended cream cheese and heavy cream mix for a dairy alternative. Be sure to check for any specific ingredient allergies before serving!
Can I use coffee liqueur in this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding 1 tablespoon of coffee liqueur or dark rum will deepen the flavors. However, feel free to omit it for a family-friendly version, and your brownies will still be delicious!
Indulge in Tiramisu Brownies for the Perfect Coffee Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x9" baking pan by lining it with parchment paper.
- Mix chopped dark or semi-sweet chocolate with cocoa powder in a bowl; set aside.
- Brown the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it’s golden and aromatic. Combine with the chocolate mixture and let cool.
- Whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a separate bowl until light and fluffy.
- Fold the cooled chocolate mixture into the egg mix, then gradually add in the flour, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 28-30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool the brownies completely in the pan on a wire rack before preparing the mascarpone topping.
- Whip the mascarpone cheese in a mixing bowl until creamy. Add the whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, whipping until thickened.
- Prepare the espresso soak by combining espresso powder with hot water. Quickly dip each ladyfinger, be cautious not to soak too long.
- Layer the soaked ladyfingers on top of the cooled brownies. Spread the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Dust the top with cocoa powder after chilling, then slice into squares.