Tiramisu Brownies
If you’ve ever found yourself torn between choosing a luscious tiramisu or a fudgy, chocolatey brownie, let me introduce you to the ultimate compromise: Tiramisu Brownies. This sumptuous dessert combines the rich depth of traditional tiramisu flavors with the dense, moist texture of a classic brownie, creating a delightful treat that feels luxurious but is surprisingly simple to make. From the espresso-kissed cocoa in the brownie base to the creamy mascarpone topping, every bite is an indulgent celebration of two beloved desserts in one.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your hands on these ingredients is easier than you might think, and each one plays a special role in making these brownies irresistibly delicious. From the rich butter and cocoa powder that form the brownie’s backbone to the creamy mascarpone topping that brings tiramisu magic, everything contributes to the perfect balance of texture and flavor.
- 8 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds moistness and a rich buttery flavor for that classic brownie texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps create a tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle warmth that enhances both brownie and tiramisu flavors.
- 2 Tablespoons coconut oil or avocado oil or vegetable oil: Keeps the brownies moist without overpowering the cocoa taste.
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Infuses the brownies with a deep chocolate richness and just a hint of espresso.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Gives the brownies their soft, chewy texture.
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder: Amplifies the chocolate flavor and nods to classic tiramisu’s coffee notes.
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch: Helps keep the brownies tender and slightly fudgy.
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda: Gives a subtle lift to balance the dense texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and prevents the sweetness from becoming flat.
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate bar, chopped: Provides little pockets of melty, gooey chocolate throughout.
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese: Creates a rich, creamy topping that’s essential for the tiramisu element.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Whipped to soft peaks, it lightens the mascarpone into a fluffy dream.
- 5 Tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone topping without graininess.
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder: Adds that unmistakable coffee flavor to the topping.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the mascarpone topping with warmth and subtle sweetness.
How to Make Tiramisu Brownies
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (about 163°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish — this ensures your brownies come out cleanly without sticking and helps them bake evenly. Setting this up early means you’ll be ready to bake as soon as your batter is mixed.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and glossy. Adding the eggs and vanilla extract next, whisk everything until fully combined and slightly fluffy. Stir in the oil and cocoa powder — this brings a deep chocolate color and flavor while keeping the batter moist and shiny. The oil also adds tenderness that’s key to the brownie’s fudgy texture.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the flour, instant espresso powder, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt into the wet mixture. Take care not to overmix here; you want everything incorporated without deflating the batter. Finally, fold in the chopped semi-sweet chocolate pieces—these will melt as the brownies bake, giving delightful pockets of melty chocolate in every bite.
Step 4: Bake the Brownies
Pour the batter into your greased baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, checking by inserting a toothpick in the center — it should come out with just a few moist crumbs for that perfect fudgy center. Overbaking will turn them cakey, so precise timing is key. Once baked, let your brownies cool completely in the pan; this step is crucial before adding the mascarpone topping.
Step 5: Make the Mascarpone Topping
In a separate medium bowl, beat together the mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, instant espresso powder, and vanilla extract. Whip this mixture until soft peaks form — it should be light, fluffy, and easily spreadable like a cloud of creamy coffee goodness. This topping is what transforms your brownies into tiramisu brownies, providing that rich yet airy tiramisu texture on top of chocolatey depth.
Step 6: Assemble and Finish
Spread the mascarpone topping generously over the fully cooled brownies. To finish, dust with a little cocoa powder for that classic tiramisu look and a touch of extra flavor. Slice into squares, serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready — the topping sets beautifully and the brownies become impossibly decadent.
How to Serve Tiramisu Brownies
Garnishes
To elevate these Tiramisu Brownies, consider sprinkling a light dusting of cocoa powder or finely grated dark chocolate on top. Fresh mint leaves or a few coffee beans make elegant edible decorations that hint at the flavors inside without overpowering the dessert.
Side Dishes
Pairing these brownies with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream complements their luscious richness perfectly. For a fresher balance, serve alongside fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries which add a bright, tart contrast to the creamy sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, try serving your Tiramisu Brownies in individual ramekins layered with extra mascarpone cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder on top. Alternatively, cut the brownies into bite-sized cubes and skewer them alongside coffee-soaked ladyfingers and chocolate-covered espresso beans for a fun tiramisu-inspired dessert platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Tiramisu Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the creamy mascarpone topping, refrigeration is essential to keep everything fresh and prevent the cream from spoiling. They stay perfectly moist and flavorful for up to 3 days.
Freezing
If you want to make these brownies well ahead of time, you can freeze them — but it’s best to freeze just the brownie base without the mascarpone topping. Wrap the cooled brownies tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw completely and then add the fresh mascarpone topping.
Reheating
Since the topping is delicate, it’s best to serve Tiramisu Brownies chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a warm brownie experience, gently warm a plain brownie piece (without topping) in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, then add mascarpone topping right before eating for the ideal combination.
FAQs
Can I use regular coffee instead of instant espresso powder?
Instant espresso powder is preferred because it dissolves easily and provides an intense coffee flavor without affecting the texture. Regular brewed coffee can add moisture and may alter the consistency, so it’s best to use the instant powder as directed.
Is mascarpone cheese necessary for this recipe?
Mascarpone is key for that authentic tiramisu topping — its creamy texture and subtle tang create the perfect complement to the brownies. While alternatives like cream cheese exist, they won’t deliver the same smooth richness that makes these brownies special.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the topping, but keep in mind the mascarpone cheese is a bit trickier to replace while maintaining the same texture and flavor. Some vegan cream cheese blends might work, but results may vary.
How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?
Look for a toothpick inserted in the center to come out with a few moist crumbs attached but no wet batter. The edges should be set but the middle still soft. Overbaking causes dryness, so timing is important.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Simply double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. The baking time may increase slightly—check for doneness around 30-35 minutes. The mascarpone topping can be prepared in the same doubled quantity for an even richer finish.
Final Thoughts
These Tiramisu Brownies truly bring the best of both worlds into one indulgent dessert, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself. The balance of intense chocolate, espresso notes, and creamy mascarpone will quickly make them a go-to recipe in your repertoire. Don’t hesitate—trust me, once you try these brownies, they’ll become one of your favorite desserts to make again and again!
