Tiramisu Brownies are the perfect fusion of two beloved desserts—rich, fudgy brownies and the creamy, espresso-kissed layers of classic tiramisu. This indulgent treat starts with a dense brownie base made with melted chocolate and browned butter, giving it a deep, toasty flavor. The brownies are then layered with lightly soaked ladyfingers and topped with a cloud-like mascarpone cream. A final dusting of cocoa powder ties it all together, making this dessert feel both sophisticated and comforting. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply want something decadent, these brownies are sure to impress.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Brownies

• Dark or semi‑sweet chocolate, finely chopped

• Natural unsweetened cocoa powder

• Unsalted butter, cubed

• Large eggs (room temperature)

• Granulated sugar

• Brown sugar

• All‑purpose flour

Mascarpone Cream

• Mascarpone cheese, cold

• Whipping cream, cold

• Powdered sugar

• Vanilla extract

Soaking Mixture

• Espresso powder

• Hot water

• Coffee liqueur or dark rum (optional)

• Ladyfingers

Topping

• Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)

Directions

• Preheat your oven and prepare a square 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

• In a saucepan, brown the butter until golden and fragrant, then stir in the chopped chocolate and cocoa powder until smooth.

• In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until frothy.

• Slowly pour the chocolate mixture into the eggs and stir to combine.

• Add the flour and fold gently until fully incorporated—avoid overmixing.

• Transfer the batter into the pan and bake until the edges are set but the center remains slightly soft.

• Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before assembling.

• Whip the mascarpone, whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla together until soft peaks form.

• Mix the espresso powder with hot water and optional liqueur. Quickly dip the ladyfingers into the mixture and place them over the cooled brownie base.

• Spread the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers in an even layer.

• Refrigerate until the cream is firm, then dust the top with cocoa powder before serving.

Nutrients (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 721 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 61 g

• Protein: 10 g

• Total Fat: 50 g

• Saturated Fat: 30 g

• Fiber: 4 g

• Sugar: 37 g

• Sodium: 82 mg

• Calcium: 105 mg

• Iron: 4 mg

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Tiramisu Brownies stand out as an exquisite dessert hybrid that blends the bold, fudgy depth of brownies with the creamy, coffee-laced charm of traditional tiramisu. Unlike standard brownies or layered cakes, this dessert is multi-textural and multi-dimensional. Each bite is a balance between chewy brownie edges, soft espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and a smooth, whipped mascarpone topping.

What makes it exceptional is the thoughtful contrast in texture and flavor. The brownie base, made with browned butter and real chocolate, brings a rich nuttiness and velvety consistency. The mascarpone cream on top adds a silky, light finish that complements the intensity of the bottom layer. And the inclusion of coffee-dipped ladyfingers introduces moisture, depth, and that unmistakable tiramisu signature—making it ideal for coffee lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike.

It’s a beautiful dessert that feels indulgent without being overly sweet, visually elegant without being complicated to make. The contrast between dark chocolate and espresso with creamy mascarpone sets it apart from every other brownie you’ve had.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

Each component of this recipe contributes to its layered elegance. Starting with brown butter, which adds nutty, rich undertones, the chocolate flavor becomes more pronounced and the brownie texture is enhanced. Using both granulated and brown sugar not only adds depth in sweetness but also improves moisture retention, giving the brownie its classic chew.

Espresso powder doesn’t just add a tiramisu-like quality—it also enhances the chocolate, making the flavor bolder and more refined. The ladyfingers provide a sponge-like, tender middle layer that absorbs the espresso soak beautifully, mimicking the lightness of the classic Italian dessert.

The star of the show, however, is mascarpone cheese. This Italian cream cheese is known for its velvety texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor. It pairs perfectly with whipped cream to make a stable but airy topping. Together, they bring a creamy richness that balances the bitterness of the coffee and chocolate base.

Finally, the cocoa powder dusting at the end adds a visual contrast and a final bitter bite that makes the dessert feel complete.

Cooking Tips for Perfection

To achieve the perfect Tiramisu Brownie, don’t skip the browning of the butter—this step brings out a depth of flavor that ordinary melted butter can’t match. When mixing your brownie batter, be gentle once the flour goes in. Overmixing at this stage can lead to a tough texture instead of the soft, fudgy one you want.

The espresso soak for the ladyfingers should be brief—just a quick dip. You want them to absorb the flavor without becoming soggy or falling apart. If you’re not a fan of alcohol, you can skip the coffee liqueur and still get a delicious result.

The mascarpone cream should be whipped until soft peaks form. Avoid overwhipping as mascarpone can curdle. Ensure that all cream and mascarpone are cold straight from the fridge to help the topping whip and hold properly.

Letting the dessert chill is essential. Refrigerating the assembled brownies allows the layers to firm up and meld together. This makes for cleaner slicing and better flavor development.

For an extra luxe presentation, use a fine-mesh sieve to dust the cocoa powder on top just before serving.

Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

Tiramisu Brownies are rich, so they’re best served in modest squares alongside something light. Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla bean gelato or a dollop of unsweetened whipped cream to add contrast. For a more elegant plating, garnish each piece with chocolate curls or espresso beans.

They make a wonderful end to an Italian-themed dinner or a standout dessert at celebrations like birthdays, dinner parties, or festive holidays. Serve with a shot of espresso, a cappuccino, or even a dessert wine like Vin Santo to elevate the experience.

You can also cut them into mini squares and serve them as part of a dessert platter for gatherings or potlucks. Their dramatic layers make them visually appealing and perfect for entertaining.

Conclusion

Tiramisu Brownies are more than just a dessert—they’re a beautiful experience in texture and taste. Marrying two iconic treats into one seamless recipe, this dessert offers something unexpected yet comforting. The intense chocolate, the light coffee-infused middle, and the airy mascarpone cream on top create a harmonious flavor profile that lingers long after the last bite.

They’re an elegant answer to the question of what to make when you want to impress but don’t want to overcomplicate. Easy to prepare, endlessly crowd-pleasing, and visually stunning, Tiramisu Brownies are sure to become your go-to when you need a unique dessert that still feels familiar. Make them once, and you’ll be hooked.