The Best Tiramisu Brownies
The Best Tiramisu Brownies combine the rich, bold flavors of espresso-soaked fudgy brownies with a smooth, creamy mascarpone layer for an indulgent dessert experience. Perfect for entertaining or treating yourself, this easy-to-make recipe delivers a luscious blend of coffee and chocolate with every bite, making it a must-have for dessert lovers.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Can be gluten-free with flour substitution; dairy-free options available
Brownie Base Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (35g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for gluten-free option)
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup (60ml) espresso or strong brewed coffee
Mascarpone Layer Ingredients
- 1 cup (225g) mascarpone cheese (or dairy-free cream cheese/coconut cream for alternative)
- 1/3 cup (40g) powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tbsp espresso or coffee liqueur (optional)
Finishing Touches
- Cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for dusting
- Optional: Chopped toasted hazelnuts or walnuts for mixing into brownie batter
- Optional: Pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for spicing
- Prepare the Brownie Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Melt the butter and mix it with granulated sugar until you have a smooth, glossy mixture. Whisk in the eggs one at a time with the vanilla extract to create a silky batter. In a separate bowl, combine cocoa powder, flour, and a pinch of salt, then gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture along with the espresso or strong brewed coffee to infuse the coffee flavor.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into a lined baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake to maintain the fudgy texture essential for tiramisu brownies.
- Prepare the Mascarpone Layer: While the brownies cool completely, beat the mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. You may gently fold in vanilla extract or a splash of espresso or coffee liqueur for added flavor.
- Assemble the Brownies: Once brownies are fully cooled, spread the mascarpone mixture evenly over the top using a spatula. Dust generously with cocoa powder or garnish with chocolate shavings for a classic tiramisu finish.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the assembled brownies for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the mascarpone to set and intensifies the espresso flavor for a harmonious coffee and cream experience.
Notes
- Use freshly brewed espresso for richer coffee flavor; instant coffee is a substitute but less robust.
- Gently fold dry ingredients to keep brownies tender and moist; avoid overmixing.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before adding mascarpone layer to prevent melting.
- Chilling overnight yields the best flavors and texture.
- High-quality cocoa powder enhances chocolate depth and richness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze wrapped brownies tightly for longer storage; thaw in fridge before serving.
- Avoid microwaving; let brownies come to room temperature to soften layers gently.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (approx. 60g)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
Keywords: tiramisu brownies, espresso brownies, mascarpone dessert, coffee chocolate dessert, fudgy brownies, easy tiramisu dessert, gluten-free brownies option