If you’re a fan of rich chocolate treats and dreamy coffee flavors, these Tiramisu Brownies are about to become your new obsession. They combine the gooey decadence of fudgy brownies with the creamy, espresso-kissed magic of a classic tiramisu. With layers of chocolate, mascarpone, and a dusting of cocoa, this is not just dessert—it’s an experience. Whether you’re serving guests or indulging solo, this indulgent coffee dessert is sure to impress.
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Why These Tiramisu Brownies Deserve a Spot in Your Recipe Collection
What makes these Tiramisu Brownies so irresistible is their perfect balance of texture and flavor. You get the dense, moist bite of classic brownies layered with a velvety mascarpone topping that’s lightly flavored with coffee. The finish? A gentle sprinkle of cocoa powder that ties everything together with a hint of bitterness.
This dessert is:
- Perfect for coffee lovers and chocolate addicts alike
- A creative twist on both tiramisu and brownies
- Great for special occasions, dinner parties, or as a weekend treat
- A show-stopping layered chocolate dessert that stores well
If you’re looking for something more unique than your everyday brownie, this tiramisu-inspired dessert is the answer.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients Breakdown
Creating this coffee-flavored masterpiece only takes a few key ingredients. Each one plays a role in building flavor, texture, and structure. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why it’s important.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the brownie base
- Caster Sugar: Sweetens the brownies while helping to create a slightly crisp top
- Large Eggs: Bind the mixture and add structure to the brownies
- Self-Raising Flour: Provides lift for a tender yet fudgy brownie
- Cocoa Powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor in both the base and topping
- Instant Coffee + Water: Gives that signature tiramisu coffee kick
- Mascarpone Cheese: The star of the creamy topping — smooth, mild, and indulgent
- Icing Sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone layer without adding graininess
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the flavors with a sweet aroma
- Cocoa Powder (for dusting): Classic tiramisu-style finish that adds visual appeal and contrast
Ingredient Swaps and Dietary Adaptations
Need a substitute or want to tweak the recipe for dietary needs? Here are some smart swaps that still maintain the essence of these Tiramisu Brownies:
- Butter Alternative: Use vegan butter for a dairy-free version
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap self-raising flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour mix and add ½ tsp baking powder
- Mascarpone Substitute: Cream cheese can work in a pinch, but the texture will be slightly tangier and firmer
- Decaf Coffee: Ideal for serving kids or for a caffeine-free version
- Egg Replacement: Use flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) for a plant-based alternative
How to Make Tiramisu Brownies – Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to create the best layered brownie dessert of your life? Follow these detailed steps for perfect results every time.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a rectangular baking dish (approximately 8×8 inches) with parchment paper.
- Make the brownie base: Melt the unsalted butter in a microwave or saucepan until fully liquid. Let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and caster sugar until combined and slightly pale.
- Add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Sift in the self-raising flour and cocoa powder. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork it.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until the top is set and a skewer comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter). Let cool completely.
- Prepare the coffee mascarpone topping: In a separate bowl, combine instant coffee with a tablespoon of hot water. Stir to dissolve and set aside to cool.
- In another mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with icing sugar and the cooled coffee mixture until smooth and spreadable.
- Once brownies are fully cooled, spread the mascarpone topping evenly across the surface.
- Dust with cocoa powder generously using a sieve or small sifter.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour to allow the layers to set before slicing and serving.
These brownies are even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully.
Tricks for Perfect Tiramisu Brownies Every Time
Success with Tiramisu Brownies lies in the details. Here are a few pro tips to elevate your baking game:
- Don’t overbake: The key to fudgy brownies is slightly underbaking. Look for set edges and a soft center.
- Cool completely before adding topping: If the brownies are warm, the mascarpone will melt and lose structure.
- Chill before serving: An hour or more in the fridge enhances flavor and makes slicing cleaner.
- Use good quality cocoa: It makes a noticeable difference in both taste and color.
- Avoid overmixing the batter once the flour is added—this ensures a tender crumb.
Delicious Pairings & Creative Variations
These Tiramisu Brownies are fantastic on their own, but they pair well with a variety of toppings and accompaniments:
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a hot-cold contrast
- Drizzle with chocolate or coffee syrup for added decadence
- Top with chocolate shavings or espresso beans for presentation
- Add a splash of coffee liqueur like Kahlua in the mascarpone mix for an adult version
- Make mini versions in muffin tins for party-friendly portions
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days
- Freeze (without the topping) for up to 3 months. Add mascarpone layer after thawing.
- Make-ahead tip: Bake the brownie base a day before and add the topping the next morning.
A Seasonal and Sensory Delight for Any Occasion
These brownies aren’t just a dessert — they’re a coffee and chocolate lover’s dream, wrapped up in one creamy, chewy, and indulgent bite. The blend of textures makes them ideal for seasonal gatherings, especially during the holidays, when people crave both comfort and sophistication in their desserts.
Whether you’re preparing a Christmas dessert tray or looking for an Easter brunch treat, these Tiramisu Brownies deliver.
Final Thoughts on These Irresistible Tiramisu Brownies
When you’re craving something truly rich, layered, and luxurious, these Tiramisu Brownies deliver on all fronts. They bring together two iconic desserts into one unforgettable bite — balancing the deep chocolate base with creamy, coffee-scented mascarpone. Whether you’re baking for a special event or simply spoiling yourself on a cozy night in, this dessert satisfies every sweet craving with sophistication.
Once you try them, you’ll never look at traditional brownies (or tiramisu) the same way again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tiramisu Brownies
Can I make tiramisu brownies ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, Tiramisu Brownies are even better when made a day ahead. The flavors have time to meld, and the mascarpone layer sets beautifully. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Can I use espresso instead of instant coffee?
Absolutely. A shot of cooled espresso can add a deeper, more authentic coffee flavor. Just be sure it’s not too hot when mixed into the mascarpone topping, or it may affect the texture.
Can I freeze tiramisu brownies?
You can freeze the brownie base for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to add the mascarpone topping after thawing, as freezing can alter the texture of the cheese layer. To freeze, wrap the brownie base tightly in plastic and then foil.
More Relevant Recipes
- Tiramisu Cold Brew Coffee Cheesecake: This indulgent dessert blends the beloved flavors of tiramisu with the richness of cheesecake. It’s layered with a cold brew-infused filling and a cookie crust, offering a creamy and coffee-forward twist that fans of tiramisu brownies will adore.
- Easy Coffee Cheesecake: A smooth, decadent cheesecake infused with bold coffee flavor, this dessert is a perfect match for tiramisu lovers. The creamy texture and robust notes make it a satisfying alternative to tiramisu brownies.
- Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake: This layered dessert brings together the cozy flavor of cinnamon rolls with the creamy elegance of cheesecake. While not coffee-based, it shares the same indulgent, multi-layered appeal as tiramisu brownies.
Tiramisu Brownies
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 16 squares
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tiramisu Brownies are the ultimate dessert fusion — combining rich, fudgy chocolate brownie layers with a creamy, coffee-infused mascarpone topping and a dusting of cocoa. Perfect for coffee and chocolate lovers alike, this indulgent treat is ideal for holidays, special occasions, or simply treating yourself.
Ingredients
- 170g unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the brownie base
- 200g caster sugar: Sweetens the brownies and contributes to the crackly top
- 3 large eggs: Provide structure and moisture to the batter
- 100g self-raising flour: Helps the brownies rise slightly
- 50g cocoa powder: Deep chocolate flavor for the base
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all other flavors
- 2 tsp instant coffee: Adds the signature coffee kick to the topping
- 1 tbsp hot water: Used to dissolve the coffee
- 250g mascarpone cheese: Smooth, creamy base for the topping
- 80g icing sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone without graininess
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder (for dusting): Adds a classic tiramisu finish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan. Let it cool slightly.
- Whisk melted butter with caster sugar in a large bowl until combined and pale.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
- Sift in the flour and cocoa powder, then fold gently until just combined.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a skewer comes out with moist crumbs.
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
- Dissolve instant coffee in 1 tbsp hot water. Let it cool.
- In another bowl, beat mascarpone with icing sugar and the cooled coffee until smooth.
- Spread the mascarpone topping evenly over the cooled brownies.
- Dust with cocoa powder using a fine mesh sieve.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For stronger coffee flavor, use espresso instead of instant coffee.
- Chill well before slicing for clean layers.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for deeper flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (1/16 of batch)
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg