Hey y’all! Ever thought of combining the classic Italian elegance of Tiramisu with the rich, chocolatey goodness of brownies? Well, you’re in for a treat! These Tiramisu brownies are the perfect blend of moist, coffee-infused layers with a creamy mascarpone topping. Ideal for parties, cozy nights in, or just because you deserve it. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Combines two classic desserts into one irresistible treat.
- Perfect balance of coffee and chocolate flavors.
- Creamy mascarpone adds a luxurious texture.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Ideal for impressing guests at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) brewed espresso, cooled
- ½ cup (120g) mascarpone cheese
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional)
- ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream
Directions
Prepare the Brownie Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine melted butter and sugar. Stir in the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Sift in the flour and cocoa powder, mixing until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes.
Make the Mascarpone Layer
- In a bowl, mix mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and coffee liqueur until smooth and creamy.
- Spread evenly over the cooled brownie base.
Assemble and Serve
- Pour the espresso evenly over the mascarpone layer and let it soak in.
- Whip the heavy cream to soft peaks and layer it over the Tiramisu brownies. Dust with cocoa powder before serving.
Notes
- For a deeper coffee flavor, increase espresso to ¾ cup. Learn more here.
- Let the brownies cool completely before adding the mascarpone layer to avoid melting.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor. Check this guide for recommendations.
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts to the brownie batter for added crunch.
- Spiced Tiramisu: Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the mascarpone mix.
- Chocolate Lover’s: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the mascarpone layer before serving.
Required Equipment
- 8-inch square baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Electric mixer (optional)
Storage Instructions
Store Tiramisu brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Suggested Pairings
Serve your Tiramisu brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair with a cup of freshly brewed espresso or a glass of dessert wine for a complete experience.
Pro Tips
- Ensure that the espresso is completely cooled before pouring over the mascarpone layer. Learn why.
- For even layers, use a spatula to spread each layer evenly before adding the next.
- Chill the brownies for at least an hour before serving to enhance the flavors and texture.
FAQ
- Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso? Yes, just dissolve 2 teaspoons of instant coffee in ½ cup of hot water.
- Is there a non-alcoholic alternative to coffee liqueur? You can omit it or replace it with a teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone? Yes, but it will alter the flavor and texture slightly.