Irresistible Tiramisu Brownies Recipe (Step-by-Step Guide)
Table of Contents
Introduction
If you’ve been looking for a dessert that effortlessly combines the elegance of Italian Tiramisu with the indulgent comfort of American-style brownies, you’ve found it! These Tiramisu Brownies are a delightful hybrid that perfectly suits weekend gatherings, potlucks, or simply satisfying a sweet craving. Inspired by the classic coffee-flavored Italian dessert, these brownies feature layers of chocolatey goodness topped with creamy, espresso-infused mascarpone.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe makes creating impressive Tiramisu Brownies easy and stress-free. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or everyday treats, they offer a sophisticated twist that chocolate lovers and coffee enthusiasts alike will appreciate. Plus, their gorgeous appearance makes them a hit at any American table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Gourmet Appeal: These Tiramisu Brownies look and taste gourmet but are straightforward enough for beginners.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: Rich chocolate pairs flawlessly with the subtle espresso-infused mascarpone.
- Great for Entertaining: Impress your guests at family dinners, potlucks, or holiday celebrations.
- Budget-Friendly Ingredients: No need for expensive or hard-to-find ingredients.
- Flexible and Adaptable: Easy ingredient swaps make it friendly for various dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
Ingredients (With Tips/Substitutions)
- Cooking spray or butter (for easy pan release)
- 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate bars (70% cacao), finely chopped, or bittersweet chocolate chips (1 1/3 cups) [Use high-quality chocolate for best flavor]
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces [room temperature for easier melting]
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar [adds moisture and depth]
- 3 large eggs [room temperature for better incorporation]
- 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder [essential for authentic Tiramisu flavor]
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt [enhances chocolate flavor]
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, at room temperature [can substitute full-fat cream cheese]
- 1 cup cold heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder [for dusting]
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Pan and Oven
Begin your Tiramisu Brownies journey by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting. Generously coat with cooking spray or butter to ensure effortless removal.
Step 2: Melting Chocolate and Butter
In a medium saucepan, gently melt the bittersweet chocolate and unsalted butter on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes. The mixture should be silky smooth.
Step 3: Adding Sugars and Eggs
Off the heat, whisk in granulated and dark brown sugars until fully combined. The mixture will appear slightly grainy. Add eggs one by one, mixing vigorously after each egg to incorporate air and give your brownies a delightful texture.
Step 4: Flavoring Your Batter
Stir in the espresso powder, vanilla extract, and kosher salt, enhancing your batter’s depth and aroma. This crucial step will lend that authentic Tiramisu Brownies flavor.
Step 5: Incorporating Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in flour and baking powder until the batter is smooth without visible flour specks. Avoid overmixing to ensure brownies remain tender and chewy.
Step 6: Baking the Brownies
Spread batter evenly in your prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out with moist crumbs, your brownies are perfect. Cool completely, approximately 3 hours, to achieve the ideal texture for your Tiramisu Brownies.
Step 7: Making Mascarpone Frosting
Whip mascarpone cheese and heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and espresso powder, beating until stiffer peaks form. This luxurious topping transforms ordinary brownies into unforgettable Tiramisu Brownies.
Step 8: Finishing Touches
Spread the mascarpone frosting generously on cooled brownies. Lift brownies out of the pan using parchment paper handles. Finish by dusting the top lightly with cocoa powder through a fine mesh strainer. Slice into neat squares, cleaning your knife between cuts.
Recipe Variations / Optional Add-Ons
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Extra Chocolate: Fold chocolate chips into the batter before baking.
- Alcoholic Twist: Add a tablespoon of coffee liqueur to the frosting for an adult-friendly version.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts or walnuts atop the frosting for additional texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful Tiramisu Brownies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, cappuccino, or hot cocoa for a cozy evening treat. To impress dinner guests, plate each brownie square alongside vanilla ice cream or fresh berries. For special occasions, serve them with sparkling wine or dessert cocktails like espresso martinis to enhance the gourmet experience.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Store leftover Tiramisu Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow brownies to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for optimal flavor and texture. For longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying. Leftover brownies also make an indulgent addition crumbled into ice cream sundaes.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I substitute cream cheese for mascarpone?
Yes, you can use an equal amount of room temperature full-fat cream cheese. The taste will be slightly tangier but still delicious!
Can these brownies be made ahead?
Absolutely! Tiramisu Brownies taste even better after resting overnight in the fridge, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Can I omit the espresso powder?
While espresso powder enhances the authentic flavor, you can omit it or replace it with decaffeinated coffee powder if preferred.
Conclusion & Call to Action
With their exquisite layers of chocolate brownie and velvety mascarpone frosting, these Tiramisu Brownies are a must-try dessert. Easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough for special occasions, this recipe is destined to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Did you love this Tiramisu Brownies recipe? Share your results, tag us on social media, and leave a comment below. We’d love to hear your variations and see your delicious creations!
Tiramisu Brownies
Ingredients
Brownie Ingredients
- Cooking spray or butter
- 8 oz bittersweet chocolate bars (70% cacao) or bittersweet chocolate chips (1 1/3 cups)
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter cut into small pieces
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp instant espresso powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
Topping Ingredients
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese at room temperature
- 1 cup cold heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp instant espresso powder
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
Brownie Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a few inches hanging over the edges. Lightly grease the pan and parchment with cooking spray or butter.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped bittersweet chocolate and unsalted butter. Heat on low, stirring often, until melted and smooth, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Stir in the granulated sugar and dark brown sugar until blended; the mixture will be textured. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition. Add the instant espresso powder, vanilla extract, and kosher salt, mixing until smooth.
- Mix in the all-purpose flour and baking powder until there are no visible flecks of flour. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few crumbs. The edges should be firm while the middle remains moist but not overly wet. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan for about 3 hours.
Topping Preparation
- In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer on medium speed to beat the room temperature mascarpone cheese and cold heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and instant espresso powder, continuing to beat until the mixture thickens to stiffer peaks.
- Spread the mascarpone mixture evenly over the cooled brownies. Using the overhanging parchment, lift the brownies from the pan and transfer them to a cutting board. Dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder through a fine mesh strainer. Cut the brownies into 12 to 16 squares, cleaning the knife between cuts for tidy slices.
