Tiramisu Brownies

These Tiramisu Brownies are a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and coffee flavors, perfect for any occasion. They offer an indulgent treat that combines the best features of brownies and the classic Italian dessert, tiramisu. With their gooey texture and creamy mascarpone topping, these brownies will impress your guests at dinner parties or serve as a cozy dessert for family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of dark chocolate and espresso creates a rich flavor profile that is hard to resist.
• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve these brownies at parties, family dinners, or just as a special treat for yourself.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With their fudgy texture and creamy topping, these brownies are sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.
• Make Ahead Option: These brownies can be made in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious world of Tiramisu Brownies, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes baking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking tin (8 or 9-inch square)
• Mixing bowls
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Whisk
• Sifter
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tin: A good quality baking tin ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows for easy mixing of ingredients without mess.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Perfect for melting chocolate quickly and evenly without burning.
• Whisk: Essential for incorporating air into your batter, leading to a lighter texture.

Ingredients

These Tiramisu Brownies are indulgent, creamy and delicious. They have a gooey, fudgy texture and a velvety coffee-flavored mascarpone topping dusted with cocoa powder. Serve as dessert!

For the Brownies:

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

For the Topping:

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

How to Make Tiramisu Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your 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 between each session until fully melted.

Step 3: Mix Sugars into Chocolate

Once melted, mix in the brown sugar and granulated sugar until well combined.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time into the chocolate mixture. Whisk each egg until it is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Sift in the all-purpose flour and salt. Gently fold or whisk until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.

Step 6: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared tin and smooth out the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until done.

Step 7: Add Espresso

Once baked, remove from the oven. Poke holes throughout the brownies with a fork or skewer. Pour the espresso shots over them while they are still warm, allowing it to soak in. Set aside to cool completely before adding toppings.

How to Serve Tiramisu Brownies

These Tiramisu Brownies are perfect for any dessert occasion. Their rich flavors and creamy topping make them a delightful treat. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve the brownies alongside a mix of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the brownies beautifully.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Add a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top or beside the brownies. The cold ice cream contrasts nicely with the warm, fudgy texture of the brownies.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Enhance the chocolate flavor by drizzling a rich chocolate sauce over each brownie piece. This extra touch makes for an indulgent treat.

Sprinkled with Nuts

• Top your Tiramisu Brownies with chopped walnuts or hazelnuts for added crunch and flavor. This nutty addition perfectly balances the creamy mascarpone topping.

Garnished with Mint Leaves

• For a refreshing twist, garnish each brownie with fresh mint leaves. This not only adds color but also a subtle hint of freshness that brightens up the dish.

How to Perfect Tiramisu Brownies

To ensure your Tiramisu Brownies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for richer flavor.
• Don’t overmix: When folding in the flour, mix just until combined to keep your brownies fudgy.
• Let them cool properly: Allow the brownies to cool before adding espresso; this helps maintain their structure.
• Experiment with coffee strength: Adjust espresso shots based on your taste preference for stronger or milder coffee flavor.
• Store correctly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.

Best Side Dishes for Tiramisu Brownies

Tiramisu Brownies can be paired with various side dishes to create a well-rounded dessert experience. Consider these options to complement your brownies.

1. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that pairs wonderfully with dense brownies.
2. Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote made from berries or stone fruits enhances sweetness and provides a lovely contrast.
3. Chocolate Mousse: Rich and creamy chocolate mousse creates an elegant layer when served next to brownies.
4. Coffee Gelato: The coffee flavor in gelato mirrors that of the brownies, making it an excellent pairing choice.
5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce adds a sweet, buttery note to each bite of brownie.
6. Coconut Cream: A dollop of coconut cream offers tropical flair and balances the richness of the dessert.
7. Orange Zest: A sprinkle of orange zest brings brightness and freshness that enhances overall flavors.
8. Peanut Butter Swirl: A touch of creamy peanut butter can add an extra layer of richness and a different flavor dimension.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tiramisu Brownies, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your butter and mascarpone cheese are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smooth batter and creamy topping.

• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements of ingredients to ensure consistent results.

• Skipping the cooling step: Allow the brownies to cool before adding the espresso. This prevents the topping from melting and ensures better flavor absorption.

• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your brownies while baking. They should be fudgy but set; a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.

• Neglecting to sift flour: Sifting flour helps aerate it and removes lumps, resulting in a lighter texture. Make this a regular habit in baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep brownies in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Tiramisu Brownies

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Tiramisu Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place brownies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces on low power for 15-20 seconds until just warm.
• Stovetop: Place brownies in a skillet over low heat, cover, and heat gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Tiramisu Brownies:

Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso?

Yes, instant coffee works well as a substitute. Just dissolve it in hot water according to package instructions before adding it to the batter.

How do I customize my Tiramisu Brownies?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut for added depth in flavor.

What can I use instead of mascarpone cheese?

Cream cheese mixed with a bit of heavy cream can be used as an alternative if mascarpone isn’t available.

How long do Tiramisu Brownies last?

Stored properly, these brownies will keep for up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Tiramisu Brownies offer a delightful blend of fudgy chocolate and creamy coffee flavors, making them perfect for any dessert lover. Their versatility allows you to customize with various toppings or mix-ins based on your preferences. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy these indulgent treats!