Tiramisu Brownies

Fudgy and rich, Tiramisu Brownies are the perfect dessert to impress at any gathering. Blending the classic flavors of Italian tiramisu with decadent chocolate brownies, this treat is ideal for celebrations, dinner parties, or just a sweet indulgence after a long day. What sets these brownies apart is their delightful layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and smooth mascarpone cream, making them a delightful twist on traditional desserts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and coffee creates a rich flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this impressive dessert.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for special occasions, potlucks, or as a simple weekend treat.
• Unique Presentation: Layers of brownies, ladyfingers, and creamy mascarpone make for an eye-catching dessert.
• Make Ahead Friendly: These brownies taste even better after chilling in the fridge, making them great for prep in advance.

Tools and Preparation

To successfully create your Tiramisu Brownies, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Shallow bowl or tall cup
• Offset spatula
• Fine mesh sieve
• Baking pan (9×13 inches)
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric hand mixer: Makes whipping the mascarpone and cream effortless and ensures a smooth texture.
• Offset spatula: Ideal for spreading the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers.
• Fine mesh sieve: Perfect for dusting cocoa powder over your brownies for an elegant finish.

Ingredients

Fudgy chocolate brownies layered with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream for an indulgent Italian-inspired dessert.

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 Tiramisu Layer

• 250 g mascarpone cheese, cold
• 200 g whipping cream, cold
• 50 g powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons espresso powder
• 150 g hot water
• 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur or dark Vanilla Extract (optional)
• 12 ladyfingers

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, for dusting

How to Make Tiramisu Brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Mascarpone Cream

In a large mixing bowl, add the mascarpone cheese. Use an electric hand mixer to beat it until it’s loosened and creamy. Add in the whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until it thickens—about 5-10 minutes. When tilted, the mixture should just barely move.

Step 2: Make Espresso Soak

In a shallow bowl or tall cup, stir together espresso powder with hot water and optional coffee liqueur until fully dissolved.

Step 3: Soak Ladyfingers

Dip each ladyfinger into the espresso soak briefly—about 1 second on each side. Let excess liquid drip off. Arrange soaked ladyfingers in rows over the brownie layer.

Step 4: Add Mascarpone Layer

Spread the prepared mascarpone cream on top of the layered ladyfingers using an offset spatula to create an even layer.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Place the tiramisu brownies in the fridge for about 1 hour. This allows both the cream to set and ladyfingers to soften perfectly.

Step 6: Dust with Cocoa Powder

Before slicing your tiramisu brownies, use a fine mesh sieve to dust cocoa powder on top. Lift out using parchment paper overhangs and slice into squares with a large knife; wipe between cuts for clean edges.

How to Serve Tiramisu Brownies

Tiramisu brownies are a delightful fusion dessert that combines rich chocolate with coffee and creamy mascarpone. They can be served in various ways to elevate your dessert experience.

Classic Presentation

• Serve them chilled for the best texture, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
• Pair with a dollop of whipped cream on top for added creaminess.

Coffee Pairing

• Enjoy with a shot of espresso or a cappuccino to enhance the coffee notes in the brownies.
• For a sweeter touch, serve alongside a flavored latte or mocha.

Garnish Ideas

• Dust with extra cocoa powder or shaved chocolate for an elegant finish.
• Add chocolate curls or coffee beans as decorative toppings for visual appeal.

Plating Suggestions

• Arrange brownie squares on a rustic wooden board for a cozy presentation.
• Use individual dessert cups or glasses to layer brownies and mascarpone cream, creating an impressive display.

How to Perfect Tiramisu Brownies

Making perfect tiramisu brownies requires attention to detail and a few tips to enhance the recipe.

• Use room temperature eggs: This ensures better mixing and helps achieve the perfect texture in your brownies.
• Don’t over-soak ladyfingers: A quick dip is enough; otherwise, they may become too soggy and fall apart.
• Cool completely before serving: Chilling allows the layers to set and improves the overall flavor profile.
• Experiment with coffee liqueur: Try different brands or types to find your favorite flavor combination.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for freshness, up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Tiramisu Brownies

Tiramisu brownies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a refreshing contrast to the sweet brownies.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream balances out the richness of the tiramisu brownies.
3. Espresso Cookies: These coffee-flavored cookies enhance the coffee aspect while providing a delightful crunch.
4. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the brownies intensifies their chocolaty goodness.
5. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy macaroons add a different texture and flavor profile that pairs well with tiramisu brownies.
6. Pistachio Crumble: A sprinkle of crushed pistachios offers a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with creamy layers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Tiramisu Brownies can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Over-soaking ladyfingers: Dipping the ladyfingers too long can make them mushy. Briefly soak each finger for just 1 second on each side to maintain their structure.
• Not chilling the brownies: Skipping the chilling step can lead to a runny mascarpone cream. Allow at least 1 hour in the fridge for the cream to set and flavors to meld.
• Using warm ingredients: Mixing cold mascarpone with warm ingredients can lead to a lumpy texture. Ensure all dairy ingredients are cold before preparation.
• Ignoring measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with ingredients like flour and sugar.
• Skipping the dusting step: Forgetting to dust with cocoa powder before serving can affect presentation. Always finish with a light dusting for that classic tiramisu look.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Tiramisu Brownies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge, maintaining freshness and flavor.

Freezing Tiramisu Brownies

• Wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tiramisu Brownies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place brownies on a baking sheet covered with foil for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat a single square on medium power for 10-15 seconds, checking regularly to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place brownies in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed, which should take about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of chocolate for Tiramisu Brownies?

Yes! While dark or semi-sweet chocolate is recommended, you can experiment with milk chocolate for a sweeter version or even white chocolate for a unique twist.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

The brownies should have set edges but still look slightly soft in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Can I add nuts to Tiramisu Brownies?

Certainly! Chopped walnuts or hazelnuts can add great texture and flavor. Just fold them into the brownie batter before baking.

What makes these brownies different from traditional tiramisu?

The key difference is that these brownies use chocolate brownie layers instead of sponge cake, combined with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream.

How do I adjust the sweetness of Tiramisu Brownies?

To reduce sweetness, you can decrease the amount of granulated sugar or brown sugar in the brownie batter. Alternatively, use less powdered sugar in the mascarpone cream.

Final Thoughts

These Tiramisu Brownies blend rich chocolate flavors with creamy mascarpone and coffee notes, making them an indulgent treat perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows for numerous customization options—consider adding flavored extracts or experimenting with different toppings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy an Italian-inspired dessert that’s sure to impress!