Tiramisu Brownies Recipe

These Tiramisu Brownies combine two irresistible desserts in one rich, layered treat. Fudgy chocolate brownies are made with bittersweet chocolate and cocoa powder, then topped with a creamy mascarpone layer flavored with vanilla and instant coffee.

A light dusting of cocoa powder finishes the brownies with the classic look and flavor of tiramisu. They’re easy enough for a weekend baking project and elegant enough to serve for holidays, dinner parties, or special occasions.

Quick Recipe Overview

• Recipe: Tiramisu Brownies
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: About 1 hour 55 minutes
• Servings: 16 brownies
• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: American-Italian Inspired

Ingredients

For the Brownies

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup bittersweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

For the Mascarpone Cream

• 4 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, cold
• 1/8 cup granulated sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 tablespoon instant coffee powder
• Cocoa powder, for garnish

How to Make Tiramisu Brownies

1. Prepare the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. Lightly grease the parchment to make the brownies easier to remove later.

2. Melt the Chocolate and Butter

Place the unsalted butter and bittersweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.

Melt them together gently in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each interval, or melt them over a saucepan of barely simmering water.

Stir until completely smooth, then allow the mixture to cool slightly.

3. Make the Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until well combined.

Add the vanilla extract and salt, then slowly whisk in the melted chocolate and butter mixture.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and cocoa powder.

Add the dry ingredients to the chocolate mixture and fold gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the brownies less fudgy.

4. Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer.

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Don’t overbake the brownies. A slightly underbaked center will give them the rich, fudgy texture that works especially well with the creamy mascarpone topping.

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.

5. Make the Mascarpone Cream

While the brownies cool, prepare the mascarpone topping.

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened mascarpone cheese with the sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and instant coffee powder until smooth.

In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until soft peaks form.

Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overmix.

6. Add the Tiramisu Topping

Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the mascarpone cream evenly over the top.

Use a spatula to create a smooth, even layer.

Refrigerate the brownies for at least 30–60 minutes to help the mascarpone layer firm up.

7. Finish with Cocoa Powder

Just before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder.

For clean slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.

Tips for the Best Tiramisu Brownies

• Don’t overbake: The brownies should remain soft and fudgy in the center.
• Cool completely: Make sure the brownies are fully cooled before adding the mascarpone cream.
• Use cold heavy cream: Cold cream whips more easily and gives the topping better structure.
• Soften the mascarpone: Let it sit at room temperature briefly so it blends smoothly.
• Fold gently: Folding the whipped cream into the mascarpone helps keep the topping light.
• Chill before slicing: Refrigerating the finished brownies makes them easier to cut neatly.
• Dust with cocoa just before serving: This keeps the cocoa layer looking fresh.

Ingredient Substitutions

Mascarpone Cheese

Mascarpone gives these brownies their classic tiramisu flavor. If you can’t find it, full-fat cream cheese can be used, although the flavor will be tangier.

Bittersweet Chocolate

Semisweet chocolate chips can be used instead if you prefer a slightly sweeter brownie.

Instant Coffee Powder

Instant espresso powder can be used for a stronger coffee flavor. Regular instant coffee also works well.

Heavy Cream

Heavy whipping cream is recommended for the lightest mascarpone topping. Avoid using low-fat milk because it won’t whip properly.

Recipe Variations

Mocha Tiramisu Brownies

Add a little extra instant espresso powder to the brownie batter for a stronger coffee flavor.

Chocolate Chip Tiramisu Brownies

Fold a handful of extra chocolate chips into the brownie batter before baking.

Extra Creamy Tiramisu Brownies

For a thicker mascarpone layer, slightly increase the mascarpone and heavy cream while keeping the sugar balanced to taste.

Dark Chocolate Tiramisu Brownies

Use dark bittersweet chocolate chips and Dutch-process cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor.

How to Store

Because of the mascarpone cream, these brownies should be stored in the refrigerator.

Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.

For the best texture, let them sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Tiramisu Brownies are especially good served chilled or slightly softened at room temperature.

Serve them with:

• A cup of espresso
• Hot coffee
• Cappuccino
• Vanilla ice cream
• Fresh berries
• Extra cocoa powder
• Chocolate curls or shavings

They’re also a great make-ahead dessert because the chilling time helps the mascarpone layer set.

Nutrition Information

Approximate nutrition per brownie, based on 16 servings and without additional toppings:

• Calories: 390
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 120mg

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on the ingredients and brands used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these brownies taste like tiramisu?

The combination of mascarpone, coffee, vanilla, and cocoa gives these brownies the classic flavor profile associated with tiramisu, while the fudgy chocolate brownie base adds a rich chocolate layer.

Can I make Tiramisu Brownies ahead of time?

Yes. These brownies can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator. The chilling time also helps the mascarpone topping set.

Can I use espresso powder instead of instant coffee?

Yes. Espresso powder works especially well if you want a more pronounced coffee flavor. Start with the recommended amount and adjust to taste.

Why does my mascarpone cream look runny?

The heavy cream may not have been whipped enough, or the mascarpone may have become too warm. Make sure the heavy cream is cold and whip it to soft peaks before folding it into the mascarpone mixture.

Can I freeze Tiramisu Brownies?

It’s best to freeze the brownies without the mascarpone topping. Wrap the cooled brownies tightly and freeze for up to 2–3 months. Thaw them completely, then prepare and add the mascarpone cream before serving.

Do I need to sift the cocoa powder?

Sifting isn’t absolutely necessary, but it can help remove lumps and make the brownie batter smoother. It is especially useful when dusting cocoa powder over the finished brownies.

Final Thoughts

These Tiramisu Brownies are a fun twist on two beloved desserts. The rich, fudgy chocolate brownie base pairs beautifully with the soft mascarpone cream, while instant coffee and cocoa powder bring in the familiar flavors of classic tiramisu.

They’re simple to prepare, easy to make ahead, and ideal whenever you want a chocolate dessert with a sophisticated coffee twist.

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