Name: Tiramisu Brownies: Indulge in Coffee-Infused Chocolate Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 6 oz Dark or Semi-Sweet Chocolate (Adds rich chocolate flavor; substitute with milk chocolate for a milder taste.); 1/2 cup Natural Cocoa Powder (Enhances chocolate intensity; optional substitute with Dutch-processed cocoa.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Provides richness; can substitute with coconut oil.); 2 large Eggs (Contributes structure and moisture; substitute with flax egg for vegan version.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Sweetens and helps with texture; can partially replace with coconut sugar.); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Adds moisture; substitute with more granulated sugar if needed.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Forms the structure of the brownies; gluten-free flour blends can be used.); 1 cup Mascarpone Cheese (Provides creamy richness; substitute with cream cheese for tangier flavor.); 1 cup Whipping Cream (Adds lightness; can use coconut cream for non-dairy.); 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar (Sweetens mascarpone layer; choose cornstarch-free for cleaner option.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Enhances all flavors; no substitutes necessary.); 2 tbsp Espresso Powder (Provides coffee flavor; instant coffee can be used.); 1/2 cup Hot Water (Activates espresso powder; no substitute needed.); 1 cup Coffee Liqueur or Dark Rum (Adds depth; can be omitted.); 24 pieces Ladyfingers (Forms the soft tiramisu layer; homemade or store-bought.); 2 tbsp Cocoa Powder (For dusting; adds bitterness to balance sweetness.)

As I rummaged through my pantry on a rainy Sunday, a whimsical idea sparked: what if I combined my love for fudgy brownies with the beloved Italian classic, tiramisu? This delightful fusion led me to create Tiramisu Brownies, a dessert that combines a rich brownie base with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and luscious mascarpone cream. Not only are these brownies a crowd-pleaser, but they also come together quickly, making them perfect for those moments when you need a sweet fix without the fuss. Each bite is an adventure in texture and flavor, marrying the deep richness of chocolate with the captivating notes of coffee. Curious about how to whip up this scrumptious treat that’s sure to impress? Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why will you adore Tiramisu Brownies?

Indulgent, creamy goodness: These Tiramisu Brownies offer a luscious twist on a classic dessert, combining the rich chocolate of brownies with the elegant flavors of tiramisu. Quick and easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for unexpected guests or a sweet treat for yourself. Impressive presentation: The beautiful layers create a stunning visual that will have your guests oohing and aahing. Don’t miss out on trying Strawberry Blueberry Tiramisu for another delightful option! Endless variations: You can easily customize it by switching out the liqueur or adjusting the coffee strength to suit your taste. Decadent experience: Each bite is a perfect balance of fudginess and creaminess, promising to satisfy any sweet tooth!

Tiramisu Brownies Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need for these decadent Tiramisu Brownies!

For the Brownie Base

Dark or Semi-Sweet Chocolate – Adds rich chocolate flavor to the brownies; substitute with milk chocolate for a milder taste.
Natural Cocoa Powder – Enhances the chocolate intensity; optional substitute with Dutch-processed cocoa for a deeper flavor profile.
Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; for a dairy-free option, use coconut oil.
Large Eggs – Contributes structure and moisture; a flax egg can be used as a vegan substitute.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and helps with texture; can be partially replaced with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor; substitute with more granulated sugar if needed.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the brownies; gluten-free flour blends can be used for a gluten-free version.

For the Tiramisu Layer

Mascarpone Cheese – A key element providing creamy richness; can be substituted with cream cheese for a tangier flavor.
Whipping Cream – Adds lightness and volume to the mascarpone layer; use coconut cream for a non-dairy alternative.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the mascarpone cream; cornstarch-free powdered sugar is available for a cleaner option.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances all flavors in the dessert; no substitutes necessary.
Espresso Powder – Provides coffee flavor that penetrates the ladyfingers; instant coffee can be used in a pinch.
Hot Water – Activates espresso powder; no substitute needed.
Coffee Liqueur or Dark Rum (optional) – Adds depth to the flavor; can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
Ladyfingers – Forms the soft tiramisu layer; make homemade or use store-bought.
Cocoa Powder (for dusting) – A finishing touch that adds a hint of bitterness to balance the sweetness; no substitutes needed.

Get ready to whip up some amazing Tiramisu Brownies with these simple ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tiramisu Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, prepare a 9×9-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing for easy removal of the brownies later.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter
In a medium bowl, combine chopped dark or semi-sweet chocolate with natural cocoa powder. Next, brown the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden and releases a nutty aroma, about 3-5 minutes. Once browned, pour the hot butter over the chocolate mixture and let it sit for a few minutes to melt.

Step 3: Mix the Eggs and Sugars
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together large eggs and granulated and brown sugars until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step adds air to your Tiramisu Brownies, making them light and fudgy, so ensure it’s well combined before moving on.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently stir the melted chocolate mixture into the egg and sugar blend until fully incorporated. This will create a rich, chocolatey batter. Be sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to capture all the chocolate goodness for your brownies.

Step 5: Incorporate the Flour
Slowly fold in the all-purpose flour with a spatula, mixing gently until just combined. It’s crucial to avoid overmixing at this stage to maintain the ideal brownie texture. Once incorporated, pour the batter into the lined baking pan and spread it evenly.

Step 6: Bake the Brownies
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 28-30 minutes. The Tiramisu Brownies are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Let them cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 7: Prepare the Mascarpone Layer
While the brownies are cooling, whip together the mascarpone cheese, heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Beat until the mixture is thick and creamy, approximately 3-5 minutes, creating that luscious layer for your Tiramisu Brownies.

Step 8: Soak the Ladyfingers
In a small bowl, dissolve the espresso powder in hot water, adding coffee liqueur if desired. Dip each ladyfinger quickly into the espresso mixture, ensuring they’re not soaked but just lightly moistened. This step infuses the ladyfingers with coffee flavor, essential for that classic tiramisu taste.

Step 9: Assemble the Layers
Once the brownies have cooled completely, layer the soaked ladyfingers over the top of the brownies, ensuring they cover the entire surface. Spread the whipped mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers and smooth it out evenly with a spatula to create an aesthetic appearance.

Step 10: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the completed Tiramisu Brownies for at least 1 hour to allow the layers to set properly. When ready to serve, dust the top with cocoa powder for a touch of elegance before slicing them into squares. Enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These Tiramisu Brownies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the brownie base up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake and cool it, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The mascarpone layer can be whipped up 1-2 days ahead; store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh and fluffy. When you’re ready to serve, dip the ladyfingers in the espresso mixture and assemble the layers on top of the cooled brownies, then chill for an hour. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful dessert that’s just as delicious, with minimal effort when it’s time to serve!

Tiramisu Brownies Variations & Substitutions

Embrace your creativity and make these Tiramisu Brownies uniquely yours with exciting twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute mascarpone and whipping cream with coconut cream for a rich non-dairy option that still delivers creaminess.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to create brownies that everyone can enjoy!
Flavor Twists: Swap coffee liqueur for hazelnut liqueur to infuse a nutty richness into your dessert. It’s a delicious surprise!
Extra Decadence: Add a layer of caramel sauce between the brownie and mascarpone layers for an irresistible contrast and extra sweetness.
Rich Chocolate Flavor: Use dark chocolate cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa to intensify the chocolatey taste, perfect for chocoholics.
Fruity Variation: Layer fresh or macerated berries on the mascarpone before serving; think strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing touch.
Spice it Up: Mix a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder into the mascarpone layer for an aromatic depth that’s sure to delight the senses.
Different Ladyfingers: If you can’t find ladyfingers, try using soft pound cake or sponge cake, which will work beautifully with the tiramisu flavors.

Feeling inspired? If you love coffee desserts, don’t forget to check out these delightful recipes like Tiramisu Truffles Coffee or the fruity Strawberry Blueberry Tiramisu for even more indulgent options!

What to Serve with Tiramisu Brownies?

Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings perfect for these luscious confections.

Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries and raspberries adds a burst of freshness, complementing the rich chocolate and coffee flavors beautifully.
Espresso: Serve a shot of espresso on the side to enhance the coffee notes in the brownies, making each bite even more indulgent.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast, balancing the brownie’s fudginess with its smooth coldness.
Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream drizzled on top adds an airy texture, making each piece feel even more decadent.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the brownies for an extra layer of chocolatey bliss that will have everyone swooning.
Amaretto: This almond-flavored liqueur can be served alongside as an after-dinner drink, echoing the flavors of the tiramisu layer beautifully.
Hazelnut Coffee: A cup of hazelnut coffee not only complements the brownie but also enhances the nutty, aromatic experience associated with tiramisu.
Dark Chocolate Shavings: Garnish the top of your brownies with dark chocolate shavings for a gourmet touch that’s visually appealing and delicious.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats add a tropical flair and are great as a contrasting texture alongside your Tiramisu Brownies.

Expert Tips for Tiramisu Brownies

Use Quality Chocolate: Choose high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate for a richer, more decadent flavor in your Tiramisu Brownies.
Avoid Overmixing: When incorporating flour, gently fold until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies, so be cautious!
Perfect Ladyfinger Soak: Dip ladyfingers quickly in the espresso mixture. Allowing them to soak too long can result in mushy layers, compromising the texture.
Allow Cooling Time: Let the brownies cool completely before adding the mascarpone layer. This ensures distinct layers and prevents melting.
Chill for Best Texture: Refrigerate your Tiramisu Brownies for at least an hour before serving. This helps set the mascarpone layer and enhances flavors.

How to Store and Freeze Tiramisu Brownies

Room Temperature: Keep Tiramisu Brownies covered at room temperature for up to 1 day. It’s best to consume them fresh, but if you must store them, ensure they’re in an airtight container to maintain moisture.

Fridge: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The chilled brownies will maintain their texture and flavors, making them a delightful treat even cold!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Tiramisu Brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving for the best texture.

Reheating: If you prefer them warm, gently reheat individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will revive the fudgy brownie base while still enjoying the creamy mascarpone layer.

Tiramisu Brownies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chocolate for my Tiramisu Brownies?
Absolutely! Selecting the right chocolate is key. I recommend using high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate, typically around 60-70% cacao. This will ensure a rich chocolate flavor that beautifully complements the coffee. If you prefer a milder taste, feel free to substitute with milk chocolate, but keep in mind it will alter the overall richness.

How should I store leftover Tiramisu Brownies?
Very simply! For room temperature storage, keep the Tiramisu Brownies covered for up to 1 day. If you want to keep them a bit longer, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Remember, chilling them can enhance their flavor, so don’t hesitate to enjoy them cold!

Can I freeze Tiramisu Brownies? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Tiramisu Brownies, start by ensuring they’re completely cooled. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container to avoid freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply transfer them to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. This method preserves their delicious texture and flavor remarkably well.

What should I do if my brownies are too dry?
If you find that your Tiramisu Brownies have come out dry, it might be due to overbaking or mixing too much. First, always keep an eye on baking time—28 to 30 minutes should do the trick! If you realize they’re dry, you could serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over them. This will help add moisture and enhance the experience!

Are there any dietary concerns I should consider when making Tiramisu Brownies?
Indeed! For those with dietary restrictions, it’s key to remember that traditional ladyfingers often contain gluten, so substitution with gluten-free alternatives is a great option. Additionally, the brownies can be made dairy-free by using coconut oil instead of butter and coconut cream in place of whipping cream. Make sure to confirm that all other ingredients, especially the mascarpone cheese, suit your dietary needs.