Tiramisu Brownies Recipe
If you’re ready for a treat that’s decadently fudgy, gorgeously swirled, and unmistakably Italian-inspired, you need this Tiramisu Brownies Recipe in your life! Imagine the best of both worlds: layers of intense chocolate brownie infused with rich coffee flavors and topped with a silky mascarpone swirl that tastes just like tiramisu. It’s the ultimate crowd pleaser, whether you’re sharing these at a party, sneaking a square for a late-night snack, or just looking to impress your favorite coffee-lover. Trust me, once you try this Tiramisu Brownies Recipe, you’ll never look at brownies the same way again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dessert is in its simplicity: every ingredient is straightforward, but when combined, they create layers of both taste and texture that feel totally gourmet! Pay special attention to each item below; from luscious mascarpone to rich cocoa, each one is essential for creating that iconic Tiramisu flavor and fudgy brownie base.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Gives the brownies their rich, tender crumb and deepens the chocolate flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownie base and helps create those gorgeous, shiny tops.
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure for the perfect fudgy bite.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances aroma and brings warmth to both layers.
- All-purpose flour: Just enough to hold everything together; too much yields cakey brownies, so measure carefully!
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers deep, intense chocolate flavor essential for any great brownie.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and elevates every flavor note in both the brownie and mascarpone layers.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt into gooey pockets for surprise bursts of chocolate in every bite.
- Mascarpone cheese, softened: The creamy, dreamy essence of tiramisu, lending richness and tang.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone layer without making it gritty.
- Egg yolk: Adds a silky, custardy texture to the mascarpone swirl.
- Instant espresso powder (dissolved in hot water): Deepens the coffee notes to truly evoke the classic tiramisu experience.
- Coffee liqueur (optional): Infuses the mascarpone with a sophisticated, aromatic kick. (Omit for alcohol-free.)
- Heavy cream, whipped: Lightens up the mascarpone swirl and creates that signature, mousse-like texture.
- Cocoa powder, for dusting: Sprinkled over the top for that iconic tiramisu finish and a hint of bitterness.
How to Make Tiramisu Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of an overhang for easy removal. This simple step ensures your Tiramisu Brownies Recipe comes out with clean, beautiful edges — and it saves you from sticky pan cleanup later!
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar together until smooth, glossy, and well combined. Then add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is light and slightly thickened. Next, gently stir in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt — just until everything is incorporated. Don’t overmix! Fold in the chocolate chips last for those perfect gooey bites tucked into your finished brownies.
Step 3: Layer the Brownie Base
Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. This becomes the decadent chocolate foundation for our Tiramisu Brownies Recipe and helps give you defined layers after baking.
Step 4: Prepare the Mascarpone Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the softened mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, egg yolk, dissolved espresso powder, and coffee liqueur together until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Fold in the whipped heavy cream gently, maintaining a light, airy texture — this is where the dessert starts to channel true tiramisu vibes!
Step 5: Assemble and Swirl
Carefully spread the mascarpone mixture over the first layer of brownie batter, right to the edges. Gently spoon the remaining brownie batter over the mascarpone, using a knife or skewer to swirl the top for a beautifully marbled effect. Be gentle so you keep the layers distinct with a pretty swirl on top.
Step 6: Bake to Fudgy Perfection
Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes — the brownies should look set but still have a slightly fudgy center (err on the side of underbaking for the best texture). Let the entire pan cool completely before removing and cutting; this helps the mascarpone layer set just right.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Once fully cooled, lift the brownies out and dust generously with cocoa powder. Cut into 16 squares for that ultimate Tiramisu Brownies Recipe reveal. Enjoy them chilled for those creamy, layered flavors to truly shine!
How to Serve Tiramisu Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Tiramisu Brownies Recipe with a classic dusting of cocoa powder — it’s simple, elegant, and gorgeously photogenic. For special occasions, add a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, or even a few espresso beans for a coffeehouse-worthy finish.
Side Dishes
Pair your brownies with a hot cup of espresso or strong coffee for that true Italian-inspired treat. Fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, add a lovely burst of color and tartness that cuts through the richness. For a little extra indulgence, serve with a scoop of vanilla gelato or ice cream!
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful twist, slice the brownies into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a tiered platter for dessert buffets or brunches. You can even layer mini squares in parfait glasses with extra whipped cream and berries for a show-stopping tiramisu trifle. Kids love them as lunchbox treats, too — just wrap individually!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Tiramisu Brownies Recipe squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They truly shine when served chilled, as the mascarpone layer stays creamy and the flavors meld together, mimicking classic tiramisu with every bite.
Freezing
Want to enjoy your Tiramisu Brownies Recipe even longer? Freeze individual brownies wrapped tightly in plastic or foil, and then place them in a zip-top bag. They’ll keep wonderfully for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
While these brownies are best served chilled for that tiramisu experience, you can take the chill off by letting them sit at room temperature for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving, as direct heat can cause the mascarpone layer to separate — gentle is best.
FAQs
Can I make Tiramisu Brownies Recipe without coffee liqueur?
Absolutely! For an alcohol-free version, simply omit the coffee liqueur and add an extra teaspoon of espresso powder for a wonderfully bold coffee flavor. The results are just as delicious and friendly for all ages.
Why is it important to cool the brownies before cutting?
Cooling allows the mascarpone layer to set fully, which means you’ll get clean, beautiful layers when you slice into your Tiramisu Brownies Recipe. Cutting too soon can make the layers merge and lose that gorgeous tiramisu look!
Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
While cream cheese will work in a pinch, mascarpone has a smoother, richer flavor that’s unmistakably tiramisu. If you must substitute, let the cream cheese soften first and expect a tangier taste and slightly firmer texture.
Do I need to use instant espresso, or can I substitute brewed coffee?
Instant espresso powder is preferred here because it brings a concentrated coffee taste without watering down the batter. If you don’t have it, use a very small amount of very strong brewed coffee, but be mindful not to add too much liquid.
How can I tell when the brownies are done baking?
Look for the edges to be set and the center to still look slightly fudgy; a toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs. Remember, the brownies will continue to set as they cool, so don’t wait for a totally dry toothpick.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a tiramisu enthusiast or a brownie devotee, this Tiramisu Brownies Recipe is sure to steal your heart and wow everyone who tries it. Give it a go the next time you want a show-stopping dessert with coffeehouse flavor and chocolatey comfort — you’ll soon be making it for every special occasion (or any day that needs a little extra joy)!
Print
Tiramisu Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the decadent combination of rich chocolate brownies layered with creamy mascarpone filling in this delightful Tiramisu Brownies recipe. Perfect for coffee and dessert lovers alike!
Ingredients
Brownie Batter:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Mascarpone Filling:
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder, dissolved in 1 tablespoon hot water
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
- Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare Brownie Batter: Whisk melted butter and sugar in a large bowl. Add eggs and vanilla, mix well. Stir in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Fold in chocolate chips. Spread half the batter into the pan.
- Make Mascarpone Filling: In another bowl, beat mascarpone, powdered sugar, egg yolk, espresso, and coffee liqueur until creamy. Gently fold in whipped cream.
- Layer and Bake: Spread mascarpone mixture over brownie layer. Spoon remaining batter on top and swirl lightly. Bake for 35–40 minutes. Cool, then dust with cocoa powder. Cut into squares to serve.
Notes
- For an alcohol-free version, omit the coffee liqueur and increase espresso powder.
- Store brownies in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Best served chilled.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 27 g
- Sodium: 125 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
