Tiramisu Brownies

These Tiramisu Brownies are the perfect blend of rich chocolate and creamy coffee flavors. They make an elegant dessert for any occasion, from family gatherings to potlucks. The combination of fudgy brownies topped with a velvety mascarpone layer creates a treat that is not only indulgent but also visually appealing. Enjoy these decadent brownies that are sure to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: Enjoy the rich chocolate paired with a smooth coffee-infused mascarpone topping.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these brownies are perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve them at parties, as a sweet treat after dinner, or even as a delightful afternoon snack.
• Impressive Presentation: Dusting with cocoa powder adds a sophisticated touch, making them look as good as they taste.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these Tiramisu Brownies, having the right tools will help ensure success in your baking adventure.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Baking tin: A sturdy tin ensures that your brownies bake evenly and hold their shape.
• Sifter: Helps to aerate flour and remove lumps, resulting in a smoother batter.

Ingredients

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

For the Brownies

• 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 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
• 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 for easy removal.

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 until fully melted.

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, whisking after each addition until fully incorporated into the mixture.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Sift in the flour and salt into the brownie mixture. Gently fold or whisk until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Bake Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking tin and smooth out the top. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until set.

Step 7: Add Espresso Flavor

Once baked, remove from the oven and use a toothpick or skewer to poke holes in the brownies. Pour espresso shots over them evenly. Let cool before adding the topping.

How to Serve Tiramisu Brownies

These Tiramisu Brownies are a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance their rich flavors and textures. Whether you prefer them plain or with additional toppings, here are some serving suggestions.

With Whipped Cream

• Top the brownies with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy contrast to the fudgy texture.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of chocolate sauce adds extra indulgence and complements the deep chocolate flavor of the brownies.

Served with Fresh Berries

• Pairing the brownies with fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, adds a refreshing touch and balances the sweetness.

Dusting of Cocoa Powder

• A simple dusting of cocoa powder on top enhances presentation and adds an extra hint of chocolate flavor.

Ice Cream on the Side

• Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla or coffee-flavored ice cream for a deliciously creamy combination.

Layered Parfait Style

• Crumble the brownies and layer them in a glass with mascarpone cream and cocoa powder for an elegant dessert presentation.

How to Perfect Tiramisu Brownies

To ensure your Tiramisu Brownies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips for baking success.

• Use Quality Chocolate: High-quality dark chocolate will elevate the flavor of your brownies significantly.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until incorporated to maintain that fudgy texture.

• Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

• Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the brownies to cool before cutting helps them set properly and results in cleaner edges.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add flavors like orange zest or almond extract for unique twists on traditional tiramisu.

Best Side Dishes for Tiramisu Brownies

Tiramisu Brownies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their decadent nature. Here are some great options to serve alongside:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to rich brownies.

2. Chocolate Mousse: This light yet rich dessert brings another layer of chocolatey goodness to your meal.

3. Coffee Gelato: The coffee flavor in gelato pairs beautifully with tiramisu-inspired desserts, enhancing the overall experience.

4. Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti complements the soft texture of brownies, adding an enjoyable crunch.

5. Panna Cotta: A creamy panna cotta can provide a silky texture that contrasts nicely with brownie density.

6. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade caramel sauce over the brownies can add sweetness and complexity to each bite.

7. Chilled Espresso: Serving chilled espresso alongside enhances the coffee notes in your tiramisu brownies while providing a refreshing beverage option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tiramisu Brownies, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are common mistakes you should steer clear of:

• Ignoring the Chocolate Quality: Using low-quality chocolate can ruin the flavor. Always opt for high-quality dark chocolate for rich taste.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to tough brownies. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a fudgy texture.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing brownies to cool after adding espresso is crucial. This step enhances the flavor and prevents sogginess.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Inaccurate measurements can affect texture and taste. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurement.
• Neglecting to Sift Flour: Sifting flour helps avoid clumps and ensures a smooth batter. Always sift your flour before adding it to the mixture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Tiramisu Brownies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Tiramisu Brownies

• Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze them for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Tiramisu Brownies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place brownies on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a brownie in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Tiramisu Brownies:

Can I use a different cheese instead of mascarpone?

Yes, you can substitute mascarpone with cream cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile.

How do I make these Tiramisu Brownies gluten-free?

You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I use decaf coffee in my Tiramisu Brownies?

Absolutely! Decaf coffee works perfectly if you want to enjoy them without caffeine.

Why did my brownies turn out cakey instead of fudgy?

Cakey brownies often result from overmixing or too much flour added. Stick to sifting and mixing gently.

Final Thoughts

Tiramisu Brownies are a delightful fusion of classic flavors with a modern twist. Their creamy topping and fudgy base make them perfect for any dessert table. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or flavors, like nuts or different coffee blends, to make them uniquely yours!