Tiramisu Brownies

Fudgy Tiramisu Brownies are a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and classic Italian flavors. This indulgent dessert combines luscious brownies with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or a cozy night in, these brownies are sure to impress. Their unique combination of textures and tastes makes them a standout choice for any dessert lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The rich chocolate brownie base pairs perfectly with the creamy mascarpone and coffee layers.
• Impressive Presentation: Layering the tiramisu elements creates a stunning visual treat that looks as good as it tastes.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for parties, holidays, or just a special treat at home – these brownies fit any occasion.
• Make Ahead Option: They can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making them perfect for entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process seamless and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Shallow bowl or tall cup
• Offset spatula
• Fine mesh sieve
• Baking pan lined with parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric hand mixer: Saves time and effort when whipping the mascarpone cream to perfection.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Offset spatula: Helps in spreading the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers.

Ingredients

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

For the Brownie Base

• 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

For Soaking the Ladyfingers

• 2 teaspoons espresso powder
• 150 g hot water
• 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur or dark Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) (e.g. Kahlua, optional)

For Assembly

• 12 ladyfingers
• 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 the mascarpone just until loosened and creamy. Add the whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture thickens (about 5-10 minutes). If you tilt the bowl slightly, it should barely move.

Step 2: Make Coffee Soak

In a shallow bowl or tall cup, stir together espresso powder, hot water, and coffee liqueur until well combined.

Step 3: Soak Ladyfingers

Dip each ladyfinger into the espresso soak very briefly (about 1 second on each side) and let any excess drip off. Be careful not to soak them completely; they should remain firm enough to hold their shape. Arrange soaked ladyfingers in rows on top of the brownie layer.

Step 4: Add Mascarpone Cream Layer

Spread the mascarpone cream over the layer of ladyfingers using an offset spatula to smooth it into an even layer.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate the assembled tiramisu brownies for about 1 hour. This allows the cream to set properly while softening the ladyfingers.

Step 6: Dust with Cocoa Powder & Slice

Before slicing, use a fine mesh sieve to dust cocoa powder over the top of your tiramisu brownies. Carefully lift them out of the pan using parchment paper overhangs. Slice into squares with a large knife while wiping it clean between cuts for neat slices.

How to Serve Tiramisu Brownies

Serving tiramisu brownies can be as delightful as making them. This indulgent dessert is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Here are some creative ways to serve your tiramisu brownies that will impress your guests.

Classic Presentation

• Serve the brownies in squares on a decorative plate. Dust with cocoa powder for an elegant finish.

With Fresh Berries

• Add a side of fresh raspberries or strawberries. Their tartness complements the rich flavors of the brownies.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A warm chocolate sauce drizzle adds extra decadence and enhances the chocolate flavor.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added creaminess and visual appeal.

À la Mode

• Pair the brownies with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream to create a delicious contrast in texture and temperature.

Coffee Pairing

• For coffee lovers, serve alongside a shot of espresso or a cappuccino to enhance the coffee notes in the dessert.

How to Perfect Tiramisu Brownies

Perfecting tiramisu brownies takes practice, but these tips will help you achieve that ideal balance of flavors and textures.

• Use quality chocolate – High-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate will deepen the flavor of your brownies.

• Don’t over-soak ladyfingers – Briefly dipping ladyfingers ensures they remain firm and provide structure to the dessert.

• Chill before serving – Refrigerating allows the layers to set properly and enhances the overall taste experience.

• Sift cocoa powder – For a smooth dusting on top, sift cocoa powder to avoid clumps, giving your dessert a polished look.

• Experiment with flavors – Try adding different liqueurs like amaretto for varied undertones that complement coffee.

Best Side Dishes for Tiramisu Brownies

When serving tiramisu brownies, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Espresso – A shot of rich espresso enhances the coffee notes in the brownies and offers a nice pick-me-up.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream – Creamy vanilla ice cream balances out the richness of the brownies perfectly.
3. Fruit Salad – A fresh fruit salad provides a light and refreshing contrast to the decadent dessert.
4. Chocolate Mousse – The airy texture of chocolate mousse complements the fudgy layers of tiramisu brownies beautifully.
5. Pistachio Cookies – The nutty flavor of pistachio cookies adds an interesting texture and taste combination.
6. Whipped Cream – Simple yet effective; whipped cream provides additional creaminess and richness to each bite.
7. Mint Tea – A soothing cup of mint tea refreshes the palate after indulging in sweet treats.
8. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses pairs nicely, offering savory bites between sweet brownie servings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tiramisu Brownies, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can affect the outcome. Here are common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise measurements. This ensures the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Soaking ladyfingers too long: Dipping ladyfingers in the espresso soak for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for a quick dip, just one second on each side, to maintain their structure.

• Overmixing the mascarpone cream: Be careful not to overbeat the mascarpone and cream mixture. Whip until it thickens but is still creamy, as overmixing can cause it to become grainy.

• Skipping chilling time: Allow the tiramisu brownies to chill in the fridge. This helps the layers set properly, ensuring that they slice neatly and have a delightful texture.

• Using warm ingredients: Ensure that your mascarpone cheese and whipping cream are cold before mixing. Warm ingredients can lead to a runny cream layer instead of a stable one.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Tiramisu Brownies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Always keep them covered to prevent drying out.

Freezing Tiramisu Brownies

• Wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Tiramisu brownies can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tiramisu Brownies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place brownies in an oven-safe dish and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Heat individual squares on medium power for about 20-30 seconds. Be careful not to overheat as this can change the texture.

• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat. Place a piece of parchment paper under the brownie square and cover with a lid. Warm for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Tiramisu Brownies different from regular brownies?

Tiramisu Brownies combine fudgy chocolate brownies with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone, offering an Italian twist on traditional brownies.

Can I make Tiramisu Brownies without alcohol?

Yes! You can substitute coffee liqueur with dark vanilla extract or simply omit it. The dessert will still be deliciously rich.

How do I know when my Tiramisu Brownies are ready?

The brownies should be set around the edges but slightly soft in the center before layering with mascarpone cream. They will firm up while chilling.

Can I customize my Tiramisu Brownies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts to the brownie batter or adjust the sweetness of the mascarpone cream according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Tiramisu Brownies are an indulgent blend of chocolate and coffee flavors that make for an irresistible dessert. Their unique layers create a delightful experience, perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite flavors or toppings! Try making this recipe today, and enjoy every delicious bite!