There’s something truly comforting about a dessert that feels like a warm hug—meet these Easy Tiramisu Brownies, where fudgy chocolate meets creamy mascarpone and a whisper of espresso. It’s a layered treat that brings cozy café vibes to your kitchen, perfect for weekend baking sessions with family, friends, or all by yourself on a rainy afternoon.
Recipe Info
| Category | Dessert |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 9–12 squares |
| Calories | ~740 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Brownie Layer:
- 113 g unsalted butter
- 200 g dark chocolate
- 100 g brown sugar
- 50 g granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 90 g all-purpose flour (sifted)
- A pinch of salt
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 2 shots of espresso (or 2 tsp instant coffee with 30 ml hot water)
- Mascarpone Cream:
- 250 g mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
- 240 ml heavy cream (full-fat)
- 50 g granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp espresso powder
- Cocoa powder for dusting
Step‑By‑Step Instructions
- Prep & Bake Brownies:
Preheat oven to 175 °C (350 °F). Line an 8‑ or 9‑inch square baking tin with parchment paper. Melt together dark chocolate and butter in a bowl over a simmering pot (double boiler) or in short bursts in the microwave; stir until smooth. - Sweeten & Whisk:
Stir in brown sugar and granulated sugar into the melted mixture until fully blended. - Add Eggs:
Crack in eggs one at a time, whisking each until fully incorporated before adding the next. - Fold in Dry Ingredients:
Sift flour and salt into the batter; gently fold with a spatula until just smooth. Add vanilla and espresso or coffee, stirring until evenly blended. - Bake:
Pour batter into prepared tin, smooth the surface, and bake for 25 minutes. You want fudgy—and that delightful crackle on top. Let cool for a few minutes. - Espresso Soak:
While warm, poke holes across the brownie (a toothpick works well). Pour espresso shots gently over the top, letting it sink into the brownie’s nooks. - Mascarpone Topping:
In a mixing bowl, whisk mascarpone and heavy cream for 30 seconds until just combined. Add sugar, salt, vanilla, and espresso powder; whisk for 2–3 minutes until stiff peaks hold. - Assemble & Chill:
Once brownie has cooled slightly, spread mascarpone cream evenly over the top. Smooth with an offset spatula or spoon. - Dust & Serve:
Use a fine sieve to dust cocoa powder over the cream. Lift brownies gently using parchment paper; cut into squares once fully cooled or chilled.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Double Boiler Tip: Melt chocolate gently to avoid burning—patience makes for glossy, smooth brownies.
- Espresso Substitute: Instant espresso powder plus a bit of hot water works beautifully when you don’t have a machine.
- Room Temperature Mascarpone: It mixes easier and avoids lumps—skip the cold clumps!
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container—best consumed within 3 days.
- Balance Tip: If you’re caffeine-sensitive, reduce espresso in both fudge and cream slightly—just enough to give that tiramisu whisper without a punch.
Recipe Variations
- Lighter Dairy: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative; results in a lighter, fluffier topping.
- Flavor Twist: Stir ½ tsp orange zest or softened turkey bacon bits (for a savory-savory addition—just a sprinkle!) into the brownie batter for a surprising twist.
- Spiced Brownies: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to warm up winter baking or holiday vibes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar and a few coffee beans for garnish.
- Pair with a tall glass of iced herbal tea or a chilled fruit spritzer—for that cozy café feel at home.
- A dollop of vanilla bean whipped cream elevates each square to café-style indulgence.
Conclusion
There you have it—a homemade dessert that feels like a cozy afternoon in your favorite café, perfect for treating yourself or gathering loved ones around a shared love of sweet and coffee. May these Easy Tiramisu Brownies bring warmth, joy, and maybe a little cheeky indulgence to your week.