If you are looking for a luscious twist on a classic dessert, look no further than The Best Tiramisu Brownies Recipe. This delightful treat combines the fudgy richness of a chocolate brownie with the creamy, coffee-infused goodness of tiramisu, creating a layered masterpiece that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Every bite delivers a perfect harmony of bold espresso, velvety mascarpone, and moist cocoa, making it an irresistible dessert to share with friends or enjoy as a special indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together The Best Tiramisu Brownies Recipe is surprisingly simple because each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding richness, moisture, or that unmistakable coffee flavor that defines tiramisu. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this show-stopping dessert:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: This adds a smooth, buttery base to your brownie for a tender crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens both the brownie and tiramisu layers perfectly without overpowering.
- 2 large eggs: Provides structure and a rich texture, essential for moist brownies.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors, giving a warm, aromatic background.
- â…“ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the brownie its deep chocolate notes and color.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Creates the necessary structure for the brownie to hold its shape while remaining soft.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies chocolate flavor.
- ½ teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional): Boosts the coffee undertone without bitterness.
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened: The star of the tiramisu layer, bringing creamy richness and slight tang.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds a silky, smooth texture and mild flavor to the tiramisu topping.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the creamy tiramisu layer just right.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the tiramisu filling while keeping it light.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Stabilizes the tiramisu mixture during baking to prevent cracks.
- 1 tablespoon strong brewed espresso or coffee: Gives that authentic coffee flavor signature to tiramisu.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and balances the espresso’s intensity.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder or grated chocolate (for dusting): Provides a visually appealing and classic finishing touch.
How to Make The Best Tiramisu Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make removing your brownies a breeze once they’re baked and chilled. It also ensures even baking from all sides.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Base
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until they form a smooth, glossy mixture. Then add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking well to combine until the batter is silky. Next, gently fold in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and espresso powder (if using) until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that will keep your brownies tender instead of cakey. Pour this rich chocolate mixture evenly into your prepared pan.
Step 3: Prepare the Tiramisu Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the softened mascarpone cheese, cream cheese, and sugar together until completely smooth. Add the egg, flour, brewed espresso, and vanilla extract, then continue beating until the mixture is silky and well-incorporated. This creamy layer brings the luxurious texture and iconic coffee notes that make tiramisu so beloved.
Step 4: Layer and Bake
Carefully spread the tiramisu mixture over the brownie batter in the pan, trying to maintain an even layer without mixing the two. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the center is just set; a toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs attached. This ensures the brownies are perfectly fudgy beneath a creamy topping.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
Allow your brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. After cooling, refrigerate for at least two hours to let the tiramisu layer set properly, making the brownies easier to cut and enhancing their luscious texture. Just before serving, dust generously with unsweetened cocoa powder or sprinkle grated chocolate for that classic Italian finish.
How to Serve The Best Tiramisu Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the beauty and flavor of your tiramisu brownies by dusting with cocoa powder or grated bittersweet chocolate right before serving. Fresh raspberries or a few espresso beans can also add a sophisticated flair and a pop of color that invites you to indulge.
Side Dishes
Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or creamy whipped cream to complement the rich coffee flavors. A cup of freshly brewed espresso or a glass of dessert wine also elevates the experience, making it a perfect ending to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the brownies on a wooden board with small jars of mascarpone cream and chocolate shavings on the side, allowing guests to build their perfect bite. You can also cut the brownies into smaller bite-sized squares and serve them as a mini dessert platter at gatherings — guaranteed to impress and disappear fast!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Because of the creamy tiramisu layer, store any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep fresh and delicious for up to four days, making it easy to enjoy multiple indulgent treats.
Freezing
These brownies freeze beautifully, too. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to maintain their creamy texture.
Reheating
If you prefer your brownies slightly warm, reheat them gently in a microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a low oven for just a few minutes. Be careful not to overheat, or the delicate tiramisu layer could lose its signature smoothness.
FAQs
Can I make The Best Tiramisu Brownies Recipe without eggs?
While eggs help bind the layers and provide structure, you can substitute them with egg replacers like flax eggs or applesauce. However, this might slightly alter the texture, so results may vary.
What’s the best way to get a stronger coffee flavor?
For a richer coffee note, you can brush the baked brownie layer with cooled espresso before spreading the tiramisu mixture on top. This extra step infuses the brownies with even more depth.
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
The recipe already includes cream cheese alongside mascarpone to balance richness and texture. For the best authentic flavor, avoid replacing mascarpone entirely, but you can experiment with ratios if necessary.
Is it necessary to chill The Best Tiramisu Brownies Recipe before serving?
Chilling is key to allowing the tiramisu layer to set and flavors to meld beautifully. Serving them well-chilled ensures a clean cut and the best texture, so don’t skip this important step.
How should I store The Best Tiramisu Brownies Recipe for carrying to a party?
Keep the brownies refrigerated in a sturdy container, and consider a cooler bag if transporting in warm weather. This keeps the tiramisu layer firm and prevents any melting before serving.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about combining two beloved desserts into one decadent masterpiece, and The Best Tiramisu Brownies Recipe accomplishes exactly that with effortless elegance. Whip up a batch to impress your loved ones or savor on a quiet evening – once you try it, this recipe will surely become a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire. Go ahead, treat yourself; you deserve every bite of this incredible indulgence!
Print
The Best Tiramisu Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 9 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These delectable Tiramisu Brownies combine the rich, fudgy depth of chocolate brownies with the creamy, coffee-infused mascarpone layer of classic tiramisu. Baked to perfection and topped with a dusting of cocoa powder or grated chocolate, they offer an indulgent dessert that’s perfect for coffee lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- â…“ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional)
Tiramisu Layer
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon strong brewed espresso or coffee
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- Unsweetened cocoa powder or grated chocolate for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
- Make Brownie Base: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract and whisk again until completely combined. Stir in cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and instant espresso powder (if using) just until the batter is uniform. Pour and spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Prepare Tiramisu Layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened mascarpone and cream cheese with the sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg, flour, brewed espresso, and vanilla extract, then beat the mixture until fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble and Bake: Gently spread the tiramisu mixture over the brownie batter layer, smoothing the top carefully. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the baked layered brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set the tiramisu layer and enhance flavors.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder or sprinkle grated chocolate for an elegant finish. Cut into 9 squares and enjoy.
Notes
- For a more pronounced coffee flavor, brush the baked brownie layer with some cooled espresso before spreading the tiramisu mixture.
- Leftover brownies should be stored covered in the refrigerator and consumed within 4 days for best freshness.
