Tiramisu Brownies

These Tiramisu Brownies are a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and creamy coffee flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, these brownies will impress everyone. Their gooey texture and velvety mascarpone topping create a unique dessert experience that stands out from traditional brownies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor – The combination of dark chocolate and coffee creates an exceptional taste that is both rich and comforting.
• Easy to Prepare – With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up these brownies in no time.
• Versatile Dessert – Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a cozy night in, they suit any occasion!
• Decadent Texture – The fudgy brownies paired with creamy mascarpone offer a luxurious mouthfeel that is hard to resist.
• Impressive Presentation – Dusting with cocoa powder adds an elegant touch, making these brownies visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Tiramisu Brownies effortlessly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help streamline the process and ensure your brownies turn out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• 8 or 9-inch square baking tin
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls – Essential for combining ingredients easily without mess.
• Microwave-safe bowl – Perfect for melting chocolate and butter evenly without burning.
• Whisk – Helps incorporate air into the mixture for a light texture.
• Rubber spatula – Ideal for folding ingredients gently to maintain the batter’s consistency.

Ingredients

For the Brownie Base

• 113 g unsalted butter
• 200 g dark chocolate
• 100 g brown sugar
• 50 g granulated sugar
• 3 eggs
• 90 g all-purpose flour (sifted)
• A pinch of salt
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 shots of espresso or instant coffee

For the Mascarpone Topping

• 250 g mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
• 240 ml heavy cream
• 50 g sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp espresso powder

For Dusting

• Cocoa powder

How to Make Tiramisu Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8 or 9-inch square baking tin with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter

Add the chopped dark chocolate and unsalted butter to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth.

Step 3: Combine Sugars

Mix the brown sugar and granulated sugar into the melted chocolate until well combined.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time to the mixture, whisking each egg until fully incorporated before adding the next.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Sift the all-purpose flour and pinch of salt into the chocolate mixture. Gently fold or whisk until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Bake Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared tin, smoothing out the top. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.

Step 7: Add Espresso Flavor

Once baked, remove from the oven. Using a fork or skewer, poke holes into the surface of the brownies. Pour espresso shots over them while still warm, allowing it to soak in. Set aside to cool completely before adding toppings.

How to Serve Tiramisu Brownies

Tiramisu Brownies are a delightful dessert that pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Their natural sweetness and acidity contrast perfectly with the rich brownies.
• Raspberries: Tart and juicy, raspberries add a refreshing burst of flavor.
• Blueberries: These sweet little fruits complement the chocolate wonderfully.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture balances the fudginess of the brownies.
• Coffee Ice Cream: Enhances the coffee notes in the brownies for a harmonious flavor pairing.
• Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: For chocolate lovers, this indulgent option makes every bite richer.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop adds airy creaminess to each slice.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or cocoa powder for an extra layer of flavor.

Drizzled Sauces

• Chocolate Sauce: A rich drizzle enhances the brownie’s decadence.
• Caramel Sauce: Adds a sweet, buttery note that pairs well with chocolate.

How to Perfect Tiramisu Brownies

To ensure your Tiramisu Brownies are always a hit, follow these tips for perfection.

• Use Quality Chocolate: High-quality dark chocolate will enhance the flavor and texture of your brownies.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on baking time to maintain that gooey, fudgy texture—aim for slightly underbaked.
• Cool Before Serving: Let the brownies cool completely before slicing to achieve clean cuts and prevent messiness.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak sugar amounts based on your taste preference for a personalized touch.

Best Side Dishes for Tiramisu Brownies

Pairing side dishes with Tiramisu Brownies can create an enjoyable dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the brownies.
2. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like mascarpone or ricotta can complement the flavors beautifully.
3. Nut Mix: A crunchy assortment of nuts provides a contrasting texture and nutty flavor.
4. Coffee or Espresso: Serving alongside coffee enhances the coffee notes within the brownies.
5. Chocolate Fondue: For those who love chocolate, dipping fruit or marshmallows into warm chocolate fondue is delightful.
6. Panna Cotta: This creamy dessert offers a light texture that contrasts well with fudgy brownies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tiramisu Brownies, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your baking experience and results. Here are key pitfalls to watch for:

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to dense brownies. Mix just until combined for a fudgy texture.
• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Inaccurate measurements can alter the final outcome. Use a kitchen scale for precision.
• Skipping the espresso: The coffee flavor is essential for that Tiramisu essence. Don’t omit it; use strong brewed coffee or espresso.
• Opening the oven door too early: This can cause the brownies to sink in the middle. Wait until they are close to finishing before checking.
• Not letting them cool properly: Cutting into warm brownies can make them fall apart. Allow them to cool completely before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Tiramisu Brownies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Tiramisu Brownies

• Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tiramisu Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place brownies wrapped in aluminum foil inside, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 20-30 seconds at a time until warmed through, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place a brownie on a plate and cover with a lid over low heat for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Tiramisu Brownies:

Can I use a different cheese?

Mascarpone is traditional, but you can substitute cream cheese mixed with sour cream for a similar texture and flavor.

How do I make these Tiramisu Brownies gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour, ensuring your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What if I don’t have espresso powder?

You can use instant coffee or finely ground coffee beans as an alternative.

How do I store leftover Tiramisu Brownies?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I add nuts to Tiramisu Brownies?

Yes, adding chopped walnuts or pecans can provide extra texture and flavor if desired!

Final Thoughts

These Tiramisu Brownies offer a delightful twist on classic flavors, combining fudgy goodness with creamy coffee layers. They are perfect for any occasion, whether as an indulgent treat or a special dessert. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite toppings or nuts to make this recipe uniquely yours!