Description
These Easy Fudgy Tiramisu Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with classic tiramisu flavors, featuring espresso-soaked ladyfingers layered with creamy mascarpone filling. Perfect for dessert lovers who enjoy a decadent, coffee-infused treat, this recipe is made with simple ingredients and straightforward steps for a luxurious finish.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup bittersweet chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup unsweetened Dutch processed cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon espresso powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla paste or extract
Espresso Mixture
- 1 cup hot brewed espresso or strongly brewed coffee
- 2 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup Kahlua or coffee liquor (optional)
Mascarpone Cream Filling
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 2/3 cup cold heavy whipping cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or extract
Assembly
- 16 Savoiardi ladyfingers
- Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare Pan and Oven: Line a 9x9 metal baking pan to cover all four sides to prevent sticking and preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt; set aside.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a microwave-safe measuring cup, melt the butter and bittersweet chocolate chips together, then whisk in the cocoa powder and espresso powder; set aside.
- Whisk Sugars and Eggs: Using a large bowl, beat granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla paste/extract until pale and fluffy.
- Combine Chocolate Mixture: Slowly whisk the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, then fold in the flour mixture until just combined to form the brownie batter.
- Bake Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 18-25 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow to cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes, then place pan in the freezer to chill while preparing the filling and espresso mixture.
- Prepare Espresso Mixture: Brew hot espresso or strong coffee and stir in granulated sugar until dissolved. Mix in Kahlua or coffee liquor if using; set aside to cool.
- Cook Egg Yolks: Bring a few inches of water to a simmer in a small pot. In a heatproof bowl, combine egg yolks and sugar; place over the simmering water and stir constantly until sugar dissolves and mixture reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove and cool quickly over an ice bath.
- Make Mascarpone Filling: Transfer cooled yolks to a stand mixer, add mascarpone cheese, and beat until smooth and fluffy. Add cold heavy cream and vanilla extract, whisking until stiff peaks form.
- Assemble Brownies: Lightly brush the brownie surface with some espresso mixture. Spread a thin layer of mascarpone filling over it.
- Add Ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture on both sides and arrange evenly over the mascarpone layer on the brownies.
- Top With Cream and Chill: Spread the remaining mascarpone filling evenly over the ladyfingers and dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours to set.
- Serve: Use a sharp knife, clean between cuts, to cut into nine portions. For smaller servings, cut each portion in half to serve 18 brownies total, as these are rich.
Notes
- Measure flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling off to avoid dense brownies.
- Using room temperature eggs ensures better incorporation and fluffier batter.
- Kahlua or coffee liquor is optional; substitute with extra brewed coffee if omitted.
- Cooling brownies in the freezer speeds up the process but avoid freezing solid before assembly.
- Freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee enhances the tiramisu flavor but use decaf if preferred.
- For vegetarian version, ensure the ladyfingers do not contain gelatin or animal products.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American