Tiramisu Brownies: The Ultimate Fusion of Coffee, Cream & Chocolate

Tiramisu brownies combine the best of two beloved desserts into one incredible treat. These decadent squares feature rich chocolate brownies as the base, topped with creamy mascarpone frosting and a hint of coffee flavor that makes traditional tiramisu so irresistible. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress guests with something truly extraordinary.

The beauty of tiramisu brownies lies in their layers of flavor and texture. The dense, fudgy brownie base provides the perfect foundation for the light, airy mascarpone topping that melts in your mouth.

The coffee element adds sophistication while complementing the chocolate beautifully. Unlike traditional tiramisu that requires ladyfinger cookies and careful assembly, these brownies simplify the process while maintaining all the authentic flavors you love.

What Makes Tiramisu Brownies Special

These brownies stand out because they capture the essence of tiramisu in a more accessible format.

Traditional tiramisu can be tricky to make and requires specific ingredients that might not be readily available. Tiramisu brownies use familiar baking ingredients while incorporating the key flavors that make tiramisu memorable.

The mascarpone topping is what truly transforms ordinary brownies into something spectacular.

This Italian cream cheese creates a luxurious texture that pairs wonderfully with chocolate. The coffee component can be adjusted to your preference, making these brownies suitable for both coffee lovers and those who prefer a subtler flavor.

Essential Equipment List

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Wire cooling rack
• Fine mesh sieve for dusting cocoa
• Sharp knife for cutting
• Parchment paper
• Small saucepan for melting chocolate
• Wooden spoon for stirring

Ingredients for the Brownie Base

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules
• 2 tablespoons hot water

Ingredients for the Mascarpone Topping

• 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
• 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Brownie Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line your 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This preparation step is crucial for getting perfect brownie squares.

Dissolve the instant coffee granules in hot water and set aside to cool. This coffee mixture will enhance the chocolate flavor in your brownies while adding that signature tiramisu taste.

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and chopped dark chocolate together, stirring constantly until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. This gentle melting process ensures your chocolate doesn’t seize or become grainy.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted chocolate mixture and granulated sugar until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This gradual incorporation helps create the perfect brownie texture.

Stir in the vanilla extract and the cooled coffee mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the chocolate mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can result in tough brownies.

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The brownies should look set on top but still feel slightly soft in the center.

Creating the Mascarpone Topping

While the brownies cool completely, prepare your mascarpone topping. This step is essential because adding the topping to warm brownies will cause it to melt and lose its beautiful texture.

In a medium bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy. Be gentle with mascarpone as it can separate if overbeaten. Add the powdered sugar gradually, beating until incorporated.

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. Add the vanilla extract, cooled coffee, and coffee liqueur if using. Continue whipping until medium peaks form. The cream should hold its shape but not be stiff.

Gently fold the whipped cream mixture into the mascarpone in three additions. This folding technique preserves the light, airy texture that makes the topping so special. The mixture should be smooth and pipeable.

Assembly and Final Steps

Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the mascarpone topping evenly over the surface. You can use a spatula for a rustic look or pipe the topping for a more elegant presentation.

Refrigerate the assembled tiramisu brownies for at least 2 hours, though overnight is even better. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the topping to set properly.

Just before serving, dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine mesh sieve. This final touch adds authentic tiramisu appearance and an extra burst of chocolate flavor.

Tips for Perfect Results

Use room temperature ingredients for the mascarpone topping to ensure smooth mixing. Cold mascarpone can be lumpy and difficult to incorporate with other ingredients.

Don’t overbake the brownies. They should still be slightly soft in the center when you remove them from the oven. They’ll continue cooking from residual heat and firm up as they cool.

For the best coffee flavor, use freshly brewed strong coffee that has cooled to room temperature. Instant coffee works well for the brownie base, but brewed coffee gives better results in the topping.

Store these brownies covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors actually improve after the first day as everything has time to meld together.

Variations and Substitutions

You can make these brownies without alcohol by omitting the coffee liqueur and adding an extra tablespoon of strong coffee instead. The flavor will still be authentic and delicious.

For a lighter version, substitute half the mascarpone with cream cheese. This reduces some richness while maintaining the creamy texture.

If mascarpone isn’t available, you can make a substitute by mixing 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup heavy cream and 2 tablespoons sour cream.

Serving Suggestions

These tiramisu brownies are perfect for dinner parties, potluck gatherings, or any time you want to serve something impressive. Cut them into small squares since they’re quite rich.

Pair with a cup of espresso or strong coffee to enhance the tiramisu experience. A glass of dessert wine like Marsala also complements the flavors beautifully.

For special occasions, garnish individual squares with a coffee bean or a small piece of dark chocolate for an elegant presentation.

Nutrition Information

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These tiramisu brownies actually taste better the next day after all the flavors have had time to develop. You can make them up to three days in advance, making them perfect for entertaining.

Store covered tightly in the refrigerator. The brownies will keep their texture and flavor for up to five days when properly stored.

For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies without the topping for up to three months. Thaw completely before adding the mascarpone layer.

Conclusion

Tiramisu brownies offer the perfect solution when you’re craving the sophisticated flavors of tiramisu but want the convenience of a brownie. These treats combine the best elements of both desserts, creating something truly special that will impress anyone who tries them. The rich chocolate base provides the perfect canvas for the creamy, coffee-infused topping that makes every bite memorable.

Whether you’re serving them at a dinner party or enjoying them as a weekend treat, these tiramisu brownies deliver restaurant-quality flavor with home kitchen simplicity. The combination of textures and flavors creates a dessert experience that’s both familiar and exciting, making them sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.