If you’re an unwavering fan of classic Italian desserts and fudgy chocolate treats, this Tiramisu Brownies Recipe is about to change the way you do dessert night forever. Picture every dreamy layer you love from tiramisu—espresso, mascarpone cream, a flutter of cocoa—but stacked atop a rich, fudgy brownie base. The result? A bite that’s blissfully creamy yet decadent, laced with coffee flavor and the perfect balance of sweet and bold. This treat has all the elegance of tiramisu and the comfort of brownies, making it impossible to resist (and shockingly easy to make at home!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how a handful of simple pantry staples come together to create something so stunning. Each ingredient here carries its weight: whether it’s for rich chocolate flavor, that signature mascarpone tang, or just the perfect hint of coffee, every element is essential to the magic of this Tiramisu Brownies Recipe.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Melted butter infuses the brownies with deep richness and helps achieve that beloved fudgy texture.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and gives the brownies a shiny, crinkly top.
- Eggs: Bind the batter together and keep things moist and chewy.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warm, aromatic notes that tie both the brownie and cream layers together.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: The key to chocolate intensity—go for high-quality if you can!
- All-purpose flour: Just enough to hold the brownie structure without making them cakey.
- Salt: Essential for balancing sweetness and deepening chocolate flavor.
- Baking powder: Provides a subtle lift and ensures the brownie bakes up just right.
- Brewed espresso or strong coffee (cooled): Soaks the brownies for that unmistakable tiramisu twist.
- Coffee liqueur (optional): Adds extra flavor and a hint of indulgence—skip it for a kid-friendly version.
- Mascarpone cheese (softened): Creamy, tangy, and impossibly smooth—signature tiramisu!
- Cream cheese (softened): Gives the cream layer structure and a slight tanginess.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and keeps the cream layer cloud-light.
- Heavy cream: Whipped until fluffy to create a smooth, airy topping.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting): Finishes the top with classic tiramisu style.
- Chocolate shavings (optional): Adds a little flair and extra chocolaty goodness.
How to Make Tiramisu Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Gather Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This little step is so worth it—it makes lifting the finished brownies out clean and easy! Lay out all your measured ingredients ahead of time so the Tiramisu Brownies Recipe flows smoothly from one layer to the next.
Step 2: Mix and Bake the Brownie Layer
In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until they’re beautifully blended—this gives that signature glossy, chewy brownie top. Add the eggs and vanilla, whisking just until the mixture is smooth and velvety. Sift in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder, then stir gently until everything comes together. Pour that glorious batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20 to 22 minutes. When a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, you’ve got it just right! Let this layer cool completely so the cream stays perfect later.
Step 3: Infuse with Espresso Goodness
Once the brownie is cool, brush the entire surface with cooled espresso (and that optional splash of coffee liqueur for extra depth). Don’t skip this—this is what transforms ordinary brownies into the Tiramisu Brownies Recipe of your dreams, infusing every bite with fragrant coffee flavor that’s pure tiramisu magic.
Step 4: Whip Up the Mascarpone Cream Layer
For the cream layer, beat together mascarpone, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks—it should look soft and billowy. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, creating a filling so fluffy and light, you’ll have a hard time not sneaking a spoonful!
Step 5: Assemble and Chill
Spread the mascarpone cream evenly over your cooled, coffee-soaked brownies, smoothing the top. Now comes the hardest part—let them chill for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors in the Tiramisu Brownies Recipe to meld, the cream to set, and the brownies to firm up for those perfect, clean slices.
Step 6: Finishing Touches and Serving
Right before serving, dust the top with a generous layer of unsweetened cocoa powder and, if you want to take things over the top, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings. Slice cold, savor slowly, and let every layer of this recipe transport you to dessert heaven!
How to Serve Tiramisu Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
The final touch is all about that gorgeous tiramisu finish—liberally dust each slice with unsweetened cocoa powder for an elegant, slightly bitter contrast. For a little extra panache (and chocolate appeal), scatter over some chocolate shavings or curls. A few coffee beans on top make it utterly Instagram-worthy!
Side Dishes
This decadent dessert shines on its own, but if you want to create a full dessert experience, pair it with fresh berries for a burst of tartness. A scoop of vanilla gelato or a small glass of cold milk is fantastic for balancing the richness and rounding out the flavors of your Tiramisu Brownies Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the brownies into bite-sized squares and serving them as party-ready petit fours on a pretty platter. For a dinner party, arrange each piece on a plate with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. A small pile in a bento box makes for an unforgettable edible gift or a fancy addition to brunch!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any extra brownies tightly and keep them in the fridge for up to four days. The layers hold up beautifully, and the flavors deepen with time—making this Tiramisu Brownies Recipe just as delicious, if not more, the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, slice the chilled brownies and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
You don’t really want to serve these warm—the cream is meant to stay cool and firm—but you can leave your Tiramisu Brownies Recipe at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving so the layers taste extra luscious and the flavors shine through.
FAQs
Can I make this Tiramisu Brownies Recipe without coffee liqueur?
Absolutely! The brownies are still loaded with coffee flavor from the brewed espresso or strong coffee, so feel free to skip the liqueur for an alcohol-free version that everyone can enjoy.
What’s the best way to get neat brownie slices with clean layers?
Chill the brownies for a good two hours, then use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each cut. This keeps the layers tidy and prevents the cream from smearing.
Is there a substitute for mascarpone cheese in the cream layer?
If you can’t find mascarpone, you can use more cream cheese with a tablespoon of heavy cream added for extra richness. The flavor is slightly tangier, but still totally delicious.
Can I double this recipe to feed a crowd?
Yes! Simply double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Keep an eye on the baking time—the brownie base should still be moist in the center, but not undercooked.
Do the brownies need to be refrigerated, or can I leave them out?
Because of the delicate mascarpone and cream cheese layer, always store this Tiramisu Brownies Recipe in the refrigerator to keep the cream safe and delicious.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the best of Italian and American desserts, this Tiramisu Brownies Recipe delivers nostalgia, richness, and a little coffee zing in every bite. Give it a whirl and share with friends—these brownies really do have a way of turning any day into a celebration. I can’t wait for you to taste just how magical this mashup can be!
Print
Tiramisu Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 9 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of rich, fudgy brownies and the classic flavors of tiramisu with this Tiramisu Brownies recipe. Layers of espresso-soaked brownie, creamy mascarpone cheese, and a dusting of cocoa powder make these brownies a decadent treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the brownie layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the espresso-soaked layer:
- 1/4 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee (cooled)
- 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional)
For the mascarpone cream layer:
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese (softened)
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For topping:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
- Optional chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Make the brownie layer by whisking together the melted butter and sugar. Add eggs, vanilla, sift in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir until just combined. Pour batter into pan, bake for 20–22 minutes.
- Once cooled, brush brownie layer with cooled espresso and optional coffee liqueur.
- To make the mascarpone cream layer, beat mascarpone, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, fold into mascarpone mixture.
- Spread cream layer over brownie base. Chill for at least 2 hours.
- Before serving, dust top with cocoa powder, sprinkle with chocolate shavings if desired. Slice and serve cold.
Notes
- These brownies are best made a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the coffee liqueur.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
