These tiramisu brownies combine two beloved desserts into one indulgent treat. They feature a rich, fudgy brown butter brownie base, topped with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and a creamy mascarpone layer. The result is a perfect balance of dense, chocolatey brownies and the light, coffee-infused flavors of tiramisu.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Brownies

• 100g dark or semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
• 50g natural cocoa powder
• 230g unsalted butter, roughly cubed
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 150g granulated sugar
• 100g brown sugar
• 100g all-purpose flour

Mascarpone Cream

• 250g mascarpone cheese, cold
• 200g whipping cream, cold
• 50g powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Ladyfinger Soak

• 2 teaspoons espresso powder
• 150g hot water
• 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur or dark rum (optional, e.g., Kahlua)
• 12 ladyfingers

Topping

• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, for dusting

Directions

Brownies

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9″ baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix chopped chocolate and cocoa powder.
3. Brown the butter by heating it in a pan until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Pour over the chocolate mixture and let sit for 3 minutes before stirring.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar for about 3 minutes.
5. Slowly whisk in the chocolate-butter mixture.
6. Fold in the flour until just combined.
7. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
8. Bake for 28-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out slightly wet.
9. Let the brownies cool at room temperature or in the fridge while preparing the mascarpone layer.

Mascarpone Cream

1. In a mixing bowl, beat mascarpone cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Add cold whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Beat until thick and creamy, about 5-10 minutes. The mixture should barely move when the bowl is tilted.

Ladyfinger Soak & Assembly

1. In a bowl, mix espresso powder, hot water, and optional coffee liqueur.
2. Dip each ladyfinger briefly (about 1 second per side) to prevent sogginess.
3. Arrange soaked ladyfingers on top of the brownie layer.
4. Spread mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers.
5. Chill for 1 hour to allow the cream to set.
6. Dust with cocoa powder before serving.

Nutrients (Per Serving – Approx. 9 Servings)

• Calories: 721 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 61g
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 50g
• Saturated Fat: 30g
• Sugar: 37g
• Fiber: 4g
• Cholesterol: 213mg
• Sodium: 82mg
• Calcium: 105mg
• Iron: 4mg

The Origins of Tiramisu and Brownies

To appreciate tiramisu brownies, it’s essential to understand the history behind the two desserts that inspired this recipe.

Tiramisu, an Italian dessert, traces its roots back to the Veneto region of Italy in the 1960s. The name “tiramisu” translates to “pick me up,” a reference to the combination of coffee and sugar, which provides an energy boost. Traditionally made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, cocoa powder, and sometimes a touch of liqueur, tiramisu has become a staple in Italian cuisine and is enjoyed worldwide.

On the other hand, brownies are an American classic. Their exact origin is debated, but most sources attribute their invention to the late 19th century in the United States. Brownies are loved for their rich chocolate flavor and dense, chewy texture. Over the years, they have evolved into various forms, incorporating different ingredients such as nuts, caramel, and even cheesecake swirls.

By merging these two desserts, tiramisu brownies bring the elegance of Italian patisserie to the comforting world of American baking, resulting in a sophisticated yet approachable treat.

What Makes Tiramisu Brownies Special?

Tiramisu brownies stand out from traditional brownies due to their layered composition and complex flavor profile. Unlike standard brownies, which focus solely on chocolate, this recipe introduces coffee and mascarpone, adding depth and contrast to the dessert. Here’s what makes them unique:

• Brown Butter Brownie Base: The base of this dessert features a rich, fudgy brownie made with brown butter, which enhances its nuttiness and intensifies the chocolate flavor.
• Espresso-Soaked Ladyfingers: Instead of mixing coffee directly into the batter, the recipe uses ladyfingers soaked in espresso, mimicking the structure of a traditional tiramisu and adding a delightful coffee kick.
• Creamy Mascarpone Layer: A thick, airy mascarpone cream layer balances the richness of the brownie and the bitterness of the coffee, providing a luxurious contrast.
• Cocoa Powder Topping: A dusting of cocoa powder on top enhances the tiramisu experience and gives the dessert an elegant finishing touch.

This intricate layering of ingredients elevates these brownies beyond the ordinary, making them a show-stopping dessert.

The Science Behind the Perfect Tiramisu Brownies

The success of tiramisu brownies relies on the right balance of textures and flavors. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect bite.

• The Role of Brown Butter: Brown butter is made by gently cooking butter until its milk solids caramelize, producing a nutty aroma and deeper flavor. In the brownie base, this ingredient enhances the chocolate’s richness, making the base more flavorful and complex.
• Why Espresso Matters: Espresso is an integral part of tiramisu and acts as a flavor enhancer. Its bitterness balances the sweetness of the brownies and complements the deep cocoa notes. For those who enjoy a more intense coffee flavor, a shot of espresso can also be added to the mascarpone cream.
• Mascarpone’s Unique Texture: Unlike regular cream cheese, mascarpone is smoother, richer, and has a mild tang. When whipped with cream and sugar, it creates an incredibly light and velvety layer, ensuring the dessert isn’t overly dense.
• The Right Soaking Time for Ladyfingers: To avoid sogginess, ladyfingers should only be dipped in espresso for a second or two. Over-soaking will cause them to disintegrate, while under-soaking will result in a dry texture that doesn’t blend seamlessly with the other layers.

By carefully managing these elements, you can achieve the ultimate tiramisu brownie experience.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about tiramisu brownies is their versatility. This recipe can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Alcohol-Free Version: While traditional tiramisu often includes coffee liqueur or rum, these brownies can be made without alcohol. Simply increase the espresso content or add a few drops of vanilla extract for extra depth.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free ladyfingers to make this dessert accessible to those with gluten sensitivities.
• Dark Chocolate Lovers: If you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, opt for a higher cocoa percentage chocolate in the brownie base, and sprinkle chocolate shavings on top for added richness.
• Extra Coffee Flavor: For those who love strong coffee, a teaspoon of instant espresso powder can be added to the mascarpone layer for an even bolder taste.
• Cheesecake Twist: Swirl some cream cheese into the mascarpone layer or add a layer of coffee-flavored cheesecake filling for a creamier texture.

With these variations, you can make tiramisu brownies your own while still maintaining the essence of the original recipe.

Tips for Serving and Storing Tiramisu Brownies

To fully enjoy tiramisu brownies, proper serving and storage are essential.

• Chilling Before Serving: These brownies taste best when they have had time to set in the fridge. Chilling for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste and texture.
• Serving Temperature: Tiramisu brownies can be served chilled for a firm texture or allowed to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes for a softer bite.
• Storing Leftovers: Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The mascarpone layer can become unstable at warm temperatures, so keeping them chilled is ideal.
• Freezing for Longer Storage: If you’d like to make them ahead, these brownies can be frozen for up to two months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your tiramisu brownies remain fresh and delicious.

Conclusion

Tiramisu brownies are the ultimate dessert fusion, bringing together the best elements of two iconic treats. The combination of a fudgy brown butter brownie base, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and a creamy mascarpone layer creates an unforgettable dessert experience. With a balance of textures, flavors, and a hint of elegance, these brownies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a dinner party, or a simple indulgence for yourself.

The versatility of this recipe also allows for customization, making it easy to adjust based on dietary preferences or flavor preferences. With the right techniques, proper layering, and attention to detail, you can create a batch of tiramisu brownies that will impress anyone who tries them. So, the next time you’re looking for a dessert that’s both sophisticated and comforting, give tiramisu brownies a try—you won’t be disappointed!