As I immersed myself in the sweet chaos of my kitchen, a revelation struck me: combining two beloved desserts could lead to something truly spectacular! Enter my Tiramisu Brownies—an irresistible fusion of fudgy brownie decadence and the soft, airy creaminess of classic tiramisu. With each bite, you’ll experience the lusciousness of a rich chocolate brownie base layered with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and a delightful mascarpone topping. These tiramisu brownies are not only perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering but also offer a comforting indulgence for when life calls for a little sweet escape. Want to know how to whip up this crowd-pleasing dessert? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Why are Tiramisu Brownies so irresistible?
Decadent Fusion: These tiramisu brownies uniquely combine the rich, fudgy goodness of chocolate brownies with the delicate creaminess of tiramisu, offering a taste sensation that feels both indulgent and nostalgic.
Effortlessly Impressive: Whipping up these brownies is a breeze, making them a delightful yet uncomplicated treat to impress friends and family. Perfect for gatherings, your guests will be asking for the recipe!
Versatile Indulgence: Whether you’re savoring them with coffee or serving them alongside vanilla ice cream, these brownies effortlessly elevate any occasion.
Ultimate Comfort: There’s something incredibly comforting about this dessert that transports you to your favorite café without stepping outside. Plus, for more sweet options, check out my Apple Brownies Moist recipe for another layer of deliciousness!
Tiramisu Brownie Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delightful dessert that will leave everyone wanting more!
For the Brownies
- Dark or Semi-Sweet Chocolate (100g) – Use high-quality chocolate for the best deep flavor.
- Natural Cocoa Powder (50g) – Adds richness; opt for unsweetened for a balanced taste.
- Unsalted Butter (230g) – Brown it for a nutty flavor that enhances the brownie base.
- Large Eggs (4) – Room temperature eggs help in better emulsification and texture.
- Granulated Sugar (150g) & Brown Sugar (100g) – Together, they sweeten and create a moist, chewy brownie.
- All-Purpose Flour (100g) – Provides structure; mix gently to keep them fudgy.
For the Mascarpone Layer
- Mascarpone Cheese (250g) – Essential for that creamy tiramisu texture; keep it cold for best results.
- Whipping Cream (200g) – Whipped to lightness for an airy topping; use cold for best outcomes.
- Powdered Sugar (50g) – Sweetens the mascarpone cream; sift before use to eliminate clumps.
For the Espresso Soak
- Espresso Powder (2 teaspoons) – Adds a rich coffee flavor; consider liqueur for an extra twist!
- Hot Water (150g) – Used to dissolve the espresso powder for soaking.
- Ladyfingers (12) – Soaked in the espresso mixture; don’t over-soak to maintain their structure.
Finishing Touch
- Cocoa Powder (for dusting) – Complements the dessert with added chocolate flavor and beautiful presentation.
Enjoy preparing these scrumptious tiramisu brownies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tiramisu Brownies
Step 1: Prep the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. This simple step ensures your tiramisu brownies bake evenly and prevents sticking, setting the stage for a delicious treat.
Step 2: Make Brown Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt 230g of unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow it to cook until it turns a golden brown color with a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes. Once ready, pour the brown butter over 100g of dark or semi-sweet chocolate and 50g of natural cocoa powder in a mixing bowl, stirring until melted and smooth for a decadent brownie base.
Step 3: Combine Egg Mixture
In a separate large bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs with 150g of granulated sugar and 100g of brown sugar until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened, around 2-3 minutes. Gradually mix in the cooled chocolate mixture, ensuring everything is well combined. Finally, gently fold in 100g of all-purpose flour until just incorporated, avoiding overmixing to retain that fudgy texture.
Step 4: Bake Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 28-30 minutes. You’ll know the tiramisu brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. Let them cool in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 5: Prepare Mascarpone Cream
While the brownies cool, prepare the mascarpone layer. In a mixing bowl, whip 250g of cold mascarpone cheese with 200g of heavy whipping cream, 50g of powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract until thick and creamy, about 3-5 minutes. The cream should be light and airy, ready to elevate your tiramisu brownies to the next level.
Step 6: Soak Ladyfingers
In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of espresso powder with 150g of hot water and optional coffee liqueur for added flavor. Briefly soak 12 ladyfingers in the espresso mixture—just 1-2 seconds on each side—to ensure they remain firm. Layer the soaked ladyfingers on top of the cooled brownie base for that signature tiramisu touch.
Step 7: Layer Cream
Spread the prepared mascarpone cream evenly over the soaked ladyfingers, smoothing it out with a spatula for a beautiful finish. This creamy layer will cling to the ladyfingers, creating a luscious contrast with the rich brownie base beneath.
Step 8: Chill
Cover the baking pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate your tiramisu brownies for at least 1 hour. This chilling step allows the layers to set beautifully, melding the flavors together. Once chilled, take them out and dust generously with cocoa powder for an elegant presentation before slicing into squares.
Tiramisu Brownies Variations & Substitutions
Discover endless possibilities to make these tiramisu brownies even more delightful and uniquely your own!
- Sponge Cake: Swap ladyfingers for sponge cake layers to introduce a softer texture. This twist adds lightness and keeps the essence of tiramisu alive.
- Amaretto Liqueur: Use amaretto instead of coffee liqueur to infuse a nutty, sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate. Imagine each bite wrapped in warm almond notes.
- Caramel Drizzle: Add a caramel sauce drizzle on top for a sweet twist that complements the chocolate and coffee flavors. It creates an additional layer of indulgence.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts, like walnuts or hazelnuts, into the brownie batter for an unexpected crunch that adds a delightful texture contrast.
- Coconut Cream: Substitute half of the mascarpone with coconut cream for a tropical flair that’s wonderfully creamy and adds a fun coconut aroma.
- Spiced Cocoa: Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg into your cocoa powder for an aromatic twist that elevates the flavor profile and enhances the warmth of the dessert.
- Orange Zest: Introduce a fresh note by adding orange zest to the mascarpone cream. The citrusy undertones play nicely against the rich chocolate.
- Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use coconut or almond milk for a vegan-friendly take on these brownies. You can still enjoy the beloved flavor combination!
Whether you’re exploring new flavors or adjusting for dietary preferences, there’s a variation waiting for you! And if you’re in the mood for more sweet treats, don’t forget to check out my Apple Brownies Moist for yet another way to indulge!
What to Serve with Tiramisu Brownies
Indulging in these luscious tiramisu brownies calls for delightful companions that will enhance your dessert experience with flavor and comfort.
- Rich Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed espresso or dark roast coffee perfectly complements the chocolate and coffee flavors of the brownies.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the fudgy texture, creating a heavenly bite.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream is a beautiful topping for extra creaminess, harmonizing with the mascarpone layer.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted dark chocolate not only elevates the presentation but also intensifies the chocolate experience.
- Biscotti: Crunchy almond or hazelnut biscotti provide a satisfying contrast to the softness of the brownies, perfect for dipping.
For a complete dessert experience, serve your tiramisu brownies with a glass of dessert wine, such as a rich Port, to truly indulge your senses!
Expert Tips for Tiramisu Brownies
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Use Quality Chocolate: Ensure you choose high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate for the richest flavor. This makes a huge difference in your tiramisu brownies.
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Mind the Soaking Time: Soak your ladyfingers just briefly in the espresso mixture to avoid a soggy texture. Test a few to find the perfect timing for your taste!
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Temperature Matters: Let your brownies cool slightly before topping with mascarpone cream. If they’re too warm, it may melt and lose its creamy texture.
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Room Temperature Eggs: Using room temperature eggs can greatly improve the emulsification process, resulting in a smoother brownie batter and a delightful texture.
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Chill for Best Flavor: Don’t skip the chilling step! Allowing the tiramisu brownies to chill for an hour helps the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a more cohesive dessert.
Storage Tips for Tiramisu Brownies
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Fridge: Store your tiramisu brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
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Freezer: You can freeze the brownies for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn.
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Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the brownies overnight in the fridge before serving. Allow to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to regain their delicious fudgy texture.
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Reheating: If you prefer them warm, gently heat individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring they don’t become overly soft, maintaining that scrumptious layering of flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These tiramisu brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the brownie base up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the brownies, let them cool completely, and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. The mascarpone cream can also be made ahead of time—just whip it up and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to complete your tiramisu brownies, soak the ladyfingers in espresso and layer them on top of the brownies, followed by the mascarpone cream. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving, and you’ll have a show-stopping dessert ready to enjoy after a busy day!
Tiramisu Brownies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right chocolate for tiramisu brownies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate. Look for chocolate with at least 60% cocoa solids for a rich taste that will enhance your brownies. Avoid chocolate chips as they often contain stabilizers that can affect the melting process.
What is the best way to store leftover tiramisu brownies?
Very good question! Store your tiramisu brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their freshness. For the best flavor and texture, I recommend letting them come to room temperature before serving, as it brings out the fudginess of the brownies.
Can I freeze tiramisu brownies?
You certainly can! To freeze, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, which prevents freezer burn. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw them overnight in the fridge before enjoying again, and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes for the best experience.
How can I prevent my ladyfingers from becoming soggy?
Great point! When soaking the ladyfingers in espresso, dip them briefly—just 1-2 seconds on each side should do the trick. If left too long, they can absorb excess moisture and become overly soft. A speedy soak ensures they remain firm while still incorporating that delightful coffee flavor.
What should I do if my mascarpone cream isn’t thickening?
If your mascarpone cream isn’t becoming thick, double-check that your cream and mascarpone cheese are cold. It’s essential to whip them together vigorously to achieve the airy texture you desire. If needed, whip a bit longer or add a tablespoon of powdered sugar to help stabilize it. Remember, patience is key here!
Can I use a different type of liqueur in my tiramisu brownies?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor, feel free to swap the coffee liqueur for amaretto or hazelnut liqueur. This will give your brownies a unique twist while still complementing the chocolate and espresso wonderfully. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!
Decadent Tiramisu Brownies You’ll Want to Savor Forever
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt 230g of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden brown and nutty, about 5-7 minutes. Pour it over 100g of dark or semi-sweet chocolate and 50g of cocoa powder in a mixing bowl, stirring until smooth.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs with 150g of granulated sugar and 100g of brown sugar until pale and thick, about 2-3 minutes. Mix in the cooled chocolate mixture, then fold in 100g of all-purpose flour until just incorporated.
- Pour the brownie batter into the baking pan and bake for 28-30 minutes. Let them cool in the pan on a wire rack.
- In a mixing bowl, whip 250g of cold mascarpone cheese with 200g of heavy whipping cream and 50g of powdered sugar until light and creamy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine 2 teaspoons of espresso powder with 150g of hot water. Briefly soak the ladyfingers in the espresso mixture, then layer them on top of the cooled brownie base.
- Spread the mascarpone cream over the soaked ladyfingers and smooth it out.
- Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Dust with cocoa powder before serving.
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