If you love tiramisu and you love brownies, then get ready for the dessert of your dreams—Tiramisu Brownies! Picture this: a decadent fudgy brownie base, topped with a rich mascarpone cream layer, and finished off with a dusting of cocoa powder. These little treats combine the best of both worlds—the comforting, dense chocolate of brownies and the smooth, coffee-laced indulgence of tiramisu. Trust me, once you try these, you won’t want to go back. Every bite is a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and just the right amount of coffee punch.
Why You’ll Love Tiramisu Brownies
If you’re wondering what makes these brownies so special, here’s the scoop:
Coffee Lovers Rejoice
Tiramisu and coffee go hand in hand, and these brownies are no exception. The coffee flavor gives each bite a deliciously sophisticated edge. If you’re a fan of the boldness of espresso, these are going to be your new favorite.
Two Classic Desserts in One
It’s like getting two desserts in one! You get the classic richness of a brownie and the creamy, coffee-kissed goodness of tiramisu. Why choose when you can have both?
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a birthday, or just treating yourself, these Tiramisu Brownies are the perfect dessert to wow your guests or indulge in a little personal decadence.
Easy to Make
While these may look fancy, they’re actually quite simple to put together. No need for complicated techniques—just layer, bake, and enjoy!
Ingredients
Let’s talk about the ingredients that come together to create this magical dessert:
For the Brownie Base:
- Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the brownies.
- Sugar: Sweetens the brownies and helps create a fudgy texture.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and help give the brownies a rich, dense texture.
- Vanilla Extract: For a hint of flavor to complement the other ingredients.
- All-Purpose Flour: The base for the brownie batter.
- Cocoa Powder: Gives the brownies their chocolatey depth.
- Baking Powder: Helps the brownies rise just slightly while keeping that fudgy texture.
- Salt: Balances out the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
- Espresso Powder: A small amount to infuse the brownies with a little coffee flavor, without overpowering them.
For the Tiramisu Layer:
- Mascarpone Cheese: The star ingredient that gives tiramisu its creamy, rich texture.
- Heavy Cream: Whipped into soft peaks, it helps create that light, mousse-like texture for the tiramisu layer.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone cream without making it too heavy.
- Vanilla Extract: For a touch of extra flavor.
- Strong Coffee: The hallmark of tiramisu, giving the dessert its signature coffee taste.
- Cocoa Powder: Used to dust over the top for that authentic tiramisu finish.
(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Ready to get baking? Here’s how you make these indulgent Tiramisu Brownies:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Base
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from the heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
Step 3: Bake the Brownie Base
Bake the brownies for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 4: Prepare the Tiramisu Layer
While the brownies are cooling, whip the mascarpone cheese and heavy cream together until smooth and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer for this, starting on low speed and then increasing to high to get soft peaks.
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
Once the brownies have cooled, spread the mascarpone mixture evenly on top of the brownies.
Step 5: Coffee Soak
In a small bowl, brew a cup of strong coffee. Let it cool slightly. Once cooled, lightly drizzle or brush the coffee over the tiramisu layer. The coffee will soak into the mascarpone cream layer, creating that signature tiramisu flavor.
Step 6: Dust with Cocoa Powder
Sift a thin layer of cocoa powder over the top of the tiramisu layer to give it the finishing touch and that authentic tiramisu look.
Step 7: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the brownies for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 290 kcal
Total Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 70mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 5g
(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
How to Serve Tiramisu Brownies
These Tiramisu Brownies are perfect for a variety of occasions, but here are some fun ways to enjoy them:
With a Cup of Coffee
Pair your brownies with a hot cup of espresso or coffee to enhance the coffee flavor in the dessert. It’s the perfect match!
At a Party
These brownies are sure to be a hit at your next dinner party, potluck, or holiday gathering. They’re easy to slice and serve, and everyone will love the unique twist on two beloved desserts.
As a Decadent Dessert
These brownies are rich enough to be a standalone dessert. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence!
Additional Tips
- Storage: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. They also freeze well for up to 2 months!
- No Mascarpone? If you can’t find mascarpone cheese, cream cheese can work as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
- Stronger Coffee Flavor: If you’re a huge fan of coffee, try adding more espresso powder to the brownie batter or a splash of coffee liqueur to the tiramisu layer.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?
A1: Yes, you can use instant coffee for both the brownie batter and the coffee soak. Just make sure it’s strong enough to give a good flavor.
Q2: Can I make these brownies without the coffee flavor?
A2: Absolutely! You can skip the espresso powder and coffee in the recipe for a chocolate-only version, though they won’t have that tiramisu kick.
Q3: How do I store the leftovers?
A3: Store the brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.
Q4: Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
A4: Yes! In fact, they taste even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, which helps the flavors come together.
Q5: Can I make a larger batch?
A5: You can definitely double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may take longer.
Q6: Can I skip the chilling time?
A6: The chilling time allows the tiramisu layer to set and makes the brownies easier to slice. While you can technically skip this step, I highly recommend letting them chill for the best texture and flavor.
Q7: Can I add chocolate chips to the brownie base?
A7: Yes! Feel free to fold in some chocolate chips or chunks to the brownie batter for an extra chocolatey touch.
Q8: Can I use a different cream for the tiramisu layer?
A8: Heavy cream is best for whipping, but you can also try using whipped topping if you prefer. Keep in mind, though, that mascarpone is key to achieving the traditional tiramisu flavor.
Q9: How do I know when the brownie base is done?
A9: The brownie base should have a few moist crumbs on the toothpick, but no wet batter. It should look set around the edges but still a bit soft in the middle.
Q10: Can I use a different pan size?
A10: You can use a 9×9-inch pan if you don’t have an 8×8-inch pan, but you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.
Conclusion
These Tiramisu Brownies are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves a combination of rich chocolate and creamy, coffee-infused goodness. With their fudgy brownie base, velvety tiramisu layer, and a dusting of cocoa powder, they are a guaranteed hit at any gathering or a perfect way to satisfy your sweet cravings. Give them a try, and get ready to experience the best of both worlds!
PrintTiramisu Brownies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 9–12 brownies (depending on the size of the cut) 1x
Description
These Tiramisu Brownies are a decadent fusion of two classic desserts: rich, fudgy brownies and the creamy, coffee-flavored indulgence of tiramisu. With a luscious espresso-infused cream layer on top and a soft, chocolatey brownie base, these brownies offer the best of both worlds. Perfect for coffee lovers and those who enjoy a twist on traditional brownies, this dessert is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
- For the Brownie Base:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
- For the Tiramisu Layer:
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare the brownie base:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth and well combined.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips if using.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare the tiramisu layer:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, espresso (or coffee), and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for quicker results.
- Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the tiramisu layer evenly over the brownie base.
- Use a spatula to smooth the top.
- Chill the brownies:
- Refrigerate the brownies for at least 2 hours, or until the tiramisu layer is firm and set. This step allows the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu layer with unsweetened cocoa powder. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- For a stronger coffee flavor, you can drizzle some additional espresso over the brownie base before adding the tiramisu layer.
- If you prefer a lighter tiramisu layer, you can fold in whipped cream to make it airier.
- These brownies should be stored in the fridge, as the tiramisu layer is best served chilled.
- For a more traditional flavor, you can substitute mascarpone with ricotta cheese, although mascarpone provides a richer texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 65mg