Decadent Tiramisu Brownies

This decadent tiramisu brownie recipe combines two beloved desserts into one irresistible treat. The fudgy chocolate base infused with espresso is topped with a creamy mascarpone layer and dusted with cocoa powder, creating the perfect balance of rich flavors and textures that capture the essence of traditional tiramisu in brownie form.

I first created these for my sister's birthday when she couldn't decide between tiramisu and brownies. The entire platter disappeared within minutes, and now they're requested at every family gathering.

Ingredients

• Unsweetened cocoa powder delivers intense chocolate flavor and contributes to the fudgy texture
• Granulated sugar balances the bitterness of cocoa and espresso
• All purpose flour provides structure while keeping the brownies tender
• Large eggs bind everything together and contribute to the rich texture
• Unsalted butter adds moisture and richness use European style for extra creaminess
• Espresso powder infuses authentic coffee flavor without making the brownies watery
• Mascarpone cheese creates the signature tiramisu topping look for fresh Italian brands
• Additional cocoa powder for dusting gives the classic tiramisu finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Heat your oven to exactly 350°F and prepare your baking pan by either greasing it thoroughly with butter or lining with parchment paper with overhang for easy removal. The parchment method makes serving much cleaner.

Create Your Base

Melt the butter completely but avoid overheating it. Combine with sugar while still warm and stir until the mixture looks slightly glossy. Add eggs one at a time, incorporating each fully before adding the next. This creates an emulsion that gives the brownies structure.

Mix Dry Ingredients

Sift the cocoa powder, flour, and espresso powder together to remove any lumps. This step is crucial for a smooth batter. Fold these dry ingredients into your wet mixture using a rubber spatula with gentle strokes. Stop mixing as soon as the flour disappears to avoid tough brownies.

Bake to Perfection

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan, pushing it into the corners. Bake on the middle rack for exactly 25 minutes, then check with a toothpick. The ideal brownie has moist crumbs, not wet batter. Overbaking will ruin the fudgy texture.

Create the Tiramisu Layer

While brownies cool completely, whip mascarpone cheese until smooth. Avoid overbeating as it can separate. Spread this creamy layer evenly over the brownies using an offset spatula, creating decorative swirls if desired.

Finish with Cocoa Dust

Using a fine mesh sieve, dust the top generously with cocoa powder for that classic tiramisu appearance. Refrigerate for at least one hour to set the mascarpone layer before cutting into squares with a clean, warm knife.

Bookmark

The espresso powder is my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered its transformative power while experimenting with different brownie recipes. Even my friends who claim to dislike coffee find themselves asking for seconds because it enhances the chocolate flavor without overwhelming the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

These tiramisu brownies actually taste better the day after baking. The flavors deepen and the mascarpone layer sets perfectly. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best texture experience. The contrast between the fudgy brownie and cool mascarpone layer is divine when served slightly chilled.

Common Substitutions

If mascarpone is unavailable, create a similar topping using 8 ounces cream cheese softened at room temperature mixed with 2 tablespoons heavy cream and 1/4 cup powdered sugar. For a dairy free version, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a plant based cream cheese alternative for the topping. The espresso powder can be replaced with 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules dissolved in 1 teaspoon hot water.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these tiramisu brownies with a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an elevated dessert experience. A shot of espresso or cappuccino makes the perfect accompanying beverage to enhance the coffee notes. For a dinner party presentation, cut into small squares and arrange on a platter with fresh berries and mint leaves for a pop of color against the dark brownies.

The Italian Connection

Traditional tiramisu, meaning pick me up in Italian, was created in the Veneto region during the 1960s. These brownies honor that heritage by incorporating the key flavors mascarpone, espresso, and cocoa while transforming them into a modern American format. The combination represents a beautiful marriage of Italian and American dessert traditions, creating something both familiar and exciting.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these Tiramisu Brownies ahead of time?

Yes, these brownies actually benefit from being made ahead! Make them up to 2 days in advance and store covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop and meld beautifully.

→ What can I substitute for espresso powder?

If you don't have espresso powder, you can use instant coffee powder or finely ground coffee beans. For a non-caffeinated version, use decaf coffee or simply omit it, though you'll lose some of the characteristic tiramisu flavor.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, but for best results, freeze just the brownie base without the mascarpone topping. Once thawed, add the fresh mascarpone topping and dust with cocoa powder before serving.

→ How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?

The key to fudgy brownies is slight underbaking. Insert a toothpick into the center - it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, not completely clean. If it comes out wet with batter, bake for a few more minutes.

→ Can I add alcohol to make them more authentic to traditional tiramisu?

Absolutely! For an adult version closer to classic tiramisu, add 1-2 tablespoons of coffee liqueur, marsala wine, or dark rum to the mascarpone topping mixture.

→ What's the best way to cut these brownies cleanly?

For clean cuts, refrigerate the brownies for at least an hour after adding the topping. Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts.