Ultimate Tiramisu Brownies
Ultimate Tiramisu Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the bold espresso flavor and creamy mascarpone layers of traditional tiramisu. This dessert offers a luscious blend of chocolate and coffee-infused moisture, topped with a smooth, fluffy mascarpone cream that creates an irresistible flavor harmony. Perfect for coffee lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike, these elegant yet easy-to-make brownies make a memorable treat for any occasion.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 2 hrs 45 mins (including chilling time)
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free flour substitution)
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200g) sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup (35g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup (60ml) espresso or strong brewed coffee
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (90g) cocoa nibs or chocolate chips (optional)
Mascarpone Cream Layer
- 8 oz (225g) mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
- Optional: 1/2 cup (120ml) whipped cream, lightly folded in for a lighter texture
For Garnish (Optional)
- Cocoa powder or espresso powder, for dusting
- Shaved chocolate curls
- Chocolate-covered espresso beans
- Prepare the Brownie Batter: Begin by melting the butter and whisking it together with the sugar and eggs until smooth and well combined. Mix in the unsweetened cocoa powder, espresso or strong brewed coffee, and vanilla extract to build the rich flavor base. Finally, gently fold in the all-purpose flour and optional cocoa nibs or chocolate chips, careful not to overmix to retain a fudgy texture.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to maintain fudginess. Let the brownies cool completely before adding the tiramisu layers.
- Prepare the Mascarpone Cream: Whisk the softened mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. For a lighter cream, gently fold in whipped cream if desired, balancing richness with softness.
- Assemble the Layers: Spread the mascarpone cream evenly over the completely cooled brownies. For an authentic touch, lightly dust the top with cocoa powder or espresso powder.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled brownies for at least two hours to allow the flavors to meld and the cream to set, resulting in the classic tiramisu texture combined with chocolatey goodness. Garnish with optional chocolate curls or espresso beans just before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly brewed espresso rather than instant coffee for the best flavor.
- Do not overbake brownies to keep them fudgy and moist.
- Chill brownies thoroughly before slicing to prevent the mascarpone cream from smearing.
- Bring mascarpone to room temperature prior to mixing to avoid lumps.
- Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder to enhance flavor and color intensity.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (approx. 1/9th of batch)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: tiramisu, brownies, espresso, mascarpone, chocolate dessert, coffee dessert, fudgy brownies, layered dessert