Tiramisu Brownies are a perfect fusion of two beloved desserts: rich, fudgy brownies and creamy, coffee-flavored tiramisu. These indulgent brownies are topped with espresso-soaked ladyfingers, a smooth mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder. The result is a deliciously decadent treat that’s the perfect balance of chocolatey, sweet, and coffee-flavored goodness. Whether you’re a fan of tiramisu or brownies (or both!), this dessert will satisfy your cravings in every bite.

Tiramisu Brownies

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

100 g dark or semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
50 g natural cocoa powder
230 g unsalted butter, roughly cubed
4 large eggs, room temperature
150 g granulated sugar
100 g brown sugar
100 g all-purpose flour

For the Mascarpone Cream:

250 g mascarpone cheese, cold
200 g whipping cream, cold
50 g powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Ladyfinger Soak:

2 teaspoons espresso powder
150 g hot water
1 tablespoon coffee liqueur
12 ladyfingers

For Topping:

1 tablespoon cocoa powder (for dusting)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Brownies

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang on the sides for easy removal after baking. Secure the parchment with metal binder clips for extra stability.
Chocolate Mixture: In a medium bowl, add the chopped chocolate and cocoa powder. Set aside. In a small pan, melt the butter over medium heat, stirring until it bubbles and foams. Continue to cook until the milk solids turn golden brown, giving it a nutty aroma. Pour the browned butter over the chocolate and cocoa powder mixture. Let it sit for 3 minutes before stirring until the chocolate is completely melted.
Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar for about 3 minutes until well combined. Gradually add the brown butter-chocolate mixture, whisking constantly until smooth.
Fold in the Flour: Add the flour to the egg-chocolate mixture and fold gently with a spatula until combined. Avoid overmixing.
Bake: Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan and spread it into an even layer. Bake for about 28-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out mostly clean with some wetness. Let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 2: Prepare the Mascarpone Cream

Whip the Mascarpone: In a large mixing bowl, add the mascarpone cheese and use an electric hand mixer to beat it until smooth. Add the whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture thickens, about 5-10 minutes. The cream should hold stiff peaks when the mixer is lifted.

Step 3: Prepare the Ladyfinger Soak

Make the Espresso Soak: In a shallow bowl or tall cup, mix together the espresso powder, hot water, and coffee liqueur (if using). Stir until the espresso powder is dissolved.

Step 4: Assemble the Tiramisu Brownies

Dip the Ladyfingers: Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso soak, about 1 second on each side, and let any excess drip off. Arrange the soaked ladyfingers in rows on top of the cooled brownie layer.
Add the Mascarpone Cream: Spread the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers using an offset spatula.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Chill: Place the tiramisu brownies in the refrigerator for about 1 hour to allow the mascarpone cream to set and the ladyfingers to soften.
Dust with Cocoa Powder: Right before serving, use a fine mesh sieve to dust the top with cocoa powder.
Slice and Serve: Lift the tiramisu brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into squares with a large knife, wiping the knife between cuts for clean edges.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 9 squares
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes

Variations

Add Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle some rich chocolate ganache over the mascarpone cream before chilling for an extra layer of indulgence.
Alcohol-Free Option: Omit the coffee liqueur and use a little more brewed espresso or strong coffee in the soak for a non-alcoholic version.
Vegan Version: Replace the mascarpone and whipping cream with dairy-free alternatives such as cashew cream and coconut whipped cream.
Mini Brownies: Make these brownies in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized portions!

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: These brownies are best served chilled. If you want them slightly warmed, microwave individual squares for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, these tiramisu brownies need to chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour, so they can be made a day in advance for convenience.

2. Can I make this recipe without ladyfingers?

While ladyfingers are traditional, you can substitute them with sponge cake or a thin layer of cake cubes for a different texture.

3. What can I use instead of mascarpone cheese?

If you can’t find mascarpone cheese, cream cheese is a great substitute. For a lighter option, you can use ricotta cheese.

4. How do I prevent the mascarpone cream from being too runny?

Be sure to whip the mascarpone cream long enough until it holds stiff peaks. If the cream seems too runny, add more powdered sugar to help it thicken.

5. Can I freeze tiramisu brownies?

Yes, you can freeze the brownies before adding the mascarpone cream. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Add the cream after thawing.

6. Can I use other liqueurs instead of Kahlua?

Yes, you can use other coffee-flavored liqueurs, such as Baileys Irish Cream, or even omit the liqueur and use additional coffee.

7. How do I store leftover mascarpone cream?

You can store leftover mascarpone cream in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

8. Can I add more layers of cream?

Yes, if you prefer a richer dessert, you can double the mascarpone cream layer for a thicker, creamier texture.

Conclusion

Tiramisu Brownies combine the rich, chocolatey goodness of brownies with the creamy, coffee-flavored layers of tiramisu, creating a decadent and unique dessert. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a sweet treat, these brownies are sure to impress. With a smooth mascarpone cream and espresso-soaked ladyfingers, each bite is pure bliss!