Name: Tiramisu Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 113 g unsalted butter; 200 g dark chocolate, chopped; 100 g brown sugar; 50 g granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 90 g all-purpose flour, sifted; Pinch of salt; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 shots of espresso or instant coffee; 250 g mascarpone cheese, room temperature; 240 ml heavy cream; 50 g sugar; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons espresso powder; Cocoa powder, for dusting

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy, coffee-infused charm of a classic tiramisu, you’ve just landed on a winner. These Tiramisu Brownies are a decadent treat that beautifully marry two beloved desserts into one unforgettable bite. With layers of luscious dark chocolate, a shot of espresso soaking through, and a dreamy mascarpone cream on top, every mouthful is a celebration of texture and flavor. Trust me, once you try making these, they’ll quickly become a favorite for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance — from the fudgy chocolate base to the airy mascarpone topping. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

113 g unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture that keeps the brownies soft.
200 g dark chocolate: The backbone of the brownies, providing deep chocolate flavor.
100 g brown sugar: Offers a subtle molasses sweetness and helps maintain chewiness.
50 g granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and contributes to the texture.
3 eggs: Bind everything together and create structure.
90 g all-purpose flour, sifted: Keeps the brownies tender without being cakey.
A pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides warmth and a lovely aromatic note.
2 shots of espresso or instant coffee: The essential coffee kick that defines the tiramisu element.
250 g mascarpone cheese, room temperature: The creamy heart of the topping that melts in your mouth.
240 ml heavy cream: Whipped to bring lightness and stability to the mascarpone cream.
50 g sugar: Sweetens the topping just enough to complement the coffee.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth to the mascarpone cream.
2 tablespoons espresso powder: Infuses the topping with a robust coffee flavor.
Cocoa powder for dusting: The final graceful touch that ties it all together visually and taste-wise.

How to Make Tiramisu Brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a square 8 or 9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This setup ensures an easy release later and clean edges. Melt the chopped dark chocolate and unsalted butter together in the microwave, stopping every 30 seconds to stir until fully smooth and glossy. This decadent chocolate-butter mix will form the decadent foundation of your brownies.

Step 2: Mix the Sugars and Eggs

Into the warm melted chocolate mixture, whisk in both the brown sugar and granulated sugar. These will give your brownies that perfect balance of sweetness and chew. Once fully incorporated, stir in the vanilla extract. Then, add the eggs one at a time, gently whisking after each addition until the mixture is silky and slightly thickened—this step is crucial for the brownies’ tender crumb.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Next, sift together the flour and a pinch of salt into your chocolate mixture. Carefully fold the dry ingredients in, mixing just until combined to avoid tough brownies. Pour this luscious batter into your prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula, preparing it for baking.

Step 4: Bake the Brownies

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You want the brownies to be set but still fudgy in the center, so keep an eye towards the end. Once baked, remove the brownies and immediately poke evenly spaced holes all over with a skewer or fork. Pour the two shots of fresh espresso over the top, allowing that bold coffee flavor to seep deeply into the warm brownies as they cool.

Step 5: Make the Mascarpone Cream

While the brownies cool, whisk together mascarpone cheese, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until just combined—about 30 seconds. Then add espresso powder, sugar, and salt, and continue whisking for 2 to 3 minutes until stiff peaks form. The cream should be thick yet fluffy, ready to melt beautifully atop your brownies.

Step 6: Assemble and Finish

Once the brownies have cooled completely, spread the mascarpone cream evenly over the surface and smooth it out. Finally, dust generously with cocoa powder through a fine sieve, adding that classic tiramisu look and a gentle cocoa bitterness that balances the sweetness. Chill slightly if you prefer, then carefully lift the brownies out using the parchment paper, cut into squares, and serve.

How to Serve Tiramisu Brownies

Garnishes

A simple dusting of cocoa powder is classic, but you can elevate your presentation with a few coffee beans scattered on top or a sprinkle of shaved dark chocolate for added texture and elegance. For a festive touch, a little powdered sugar or edible gold flakes create a dazzling finish.

Side Dishes

These brownies are wonderfully rich on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce can create a next-level indulgence. Fresh berries also add a refreshing contrast that cuts through the richness, making your dessert plate pop with color.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Tiramisu Brownies layered in parfait glasses with alternating layers of mascarpone cream and brownie chunks for a playful twist. You can also cut them into bite-sized cubes and skewer them with fruit for sophisticated dessert kebabs at your next gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Tiramisu Brownies refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The mascarpone cream topping stays fresh and luscious, and the flavors actually deepen over time, making them even more irresistible after a day or two.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the brownies uncut in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight to preserve the creamy texture of the mascarpone topping.

Reheating

It’s best to enjoy these brownies cold or at room temperature since reheating can alter the texture of the mascarpone cream. However, if you prefer them slightly warm, gently warm individual squares in the microwave for about 10 seconds—just enough to take the chill off without melting the topping.

FAQs

Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso shots?

Absolutely! Instant coffee or espresso powder works perfectly to infuse that signature coffee flavor into these brownies, especially if you don’t have an espresso machine at home.

Is it possible to make Tiramisu Brownies dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the mascarpone with a dairy-free cream cheese and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream. Keep in mind the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.

How can I make these brownies more moist?

Be careful not to overbake, and use the espresso soak generously. Also, butter and melted chocolate already keep the base moist, so precise measurements and gentle folding help maintain that fudgy texture.

Can I use store-bought brownie mix?

You sure can! Using a quality brownie mix can save time—just follow the soaking, mascarpone topping, and assembly steps to get that luscious tiramisu twist.

What’s the best way to cut the brownies cleanly?

Warm a sharp knife under hot water, wipe dry, and slice through the brownies in one smooth motion. Repeat warming and wiping between cuts for perfectly neat squares every time.

Final Thoughts

If you love the best of both worlds — classic tiramisu and indulgent brownies — these Tiramisu Brownies are practically made for you. They’re rich, creamy, and brimming with coffee-chocolate bliss in every bite. Honestly, I can’t recommend these enough for your next dessert adventure. Go ahead and treat yourself; I promise you’ll want to make them again and again!

Tiramisu Brownies Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 29 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 9 brownies (3×3 squares) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Tiramisu Brownies are an indulgent fusion of classic tiramisu flavors and rich, fudgy chocolate brownies. Featuring a moist espresso-infused brownie base topped with a luscious mascarpone cream and dusted with cocoa powder, this dessert is perfect for coffee and chocolate lovers seeking a decadent treat.

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8 or 9-inch square metal baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a mixing bowl, combine chopped dark chocolate and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until fully melted and smooth.
Add Sugars: Stir both brown sugar and granulated sugar into the melted chocolate mixture until well combined.
Incorporate Vanilla and Eggs: Add vanilla extract to the mixture. Then add eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition to ensure full incorporation.
Add Dry Ingredients: Sift the all-purpose flour and salt into the wet ingredients. Gently fold or whisk until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Bake Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
Infuse with Espresso: Remove the brownies from the oven. While still warm, poke holes around the surface using a skewer or fork. Pour the espresso shots evenly over the brownies and set aside to cool completely.
Prepare Mascarpone Cream: In a clean bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese, vanilla extract, and heavy cream for about 30 seconds until blended.
Add Espresso Powder and Sugar: Add espresso powder, sugar, and salt to the mascarpone mixture. Whisk vigorously for 2-3 minutes until stiff peaks form.
Assemble Tiramisu Brownies: Spread the mascarpone cream evenly over the cooled, espresso-infused brownies. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Finish with Cocoa Dusting: Using a sieve, dust a generous layer of cocoa powder on top of the mascarpone cream for a classic tiramisu look and flavor.
Serve: Carefully lift the brownies out of the pan by the parchment paper. Peel away the parchment and cut into equal-sized squares. Enjoy!

Notes

Alcohol Substitute: To boost authentic tiramisu flavor, soak the brownies with Marsala wine, Sambuca, Amaretto, dark rum, or brandy before adding the mascarpone topping.
Use a Brownie Mix: For a quicker preparation, feel free to use a pre-made brownie mix and then follow the espresso soaking and mascarpone topping steps.
Clean Slicing Tip: For neat brownie slices, keep a cup of warm water and a paper towel nearby. Dip your knife in warm water and wipe it clean between cuts.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American