If you adore the rich coffee flavors of classic tiramisu and the fudgy, chocolatey allure of brownies, you are in for a real treat with this Tiramisu Brownies Recipe. It beautifully layers a decadent espresso brownie base with coffee-soaked lady fingers, all topped off by a velvety mascarpone cream—all dusted with cocoa powder for that perfect finishing touch. This recipe captures the beloved elements of tiramisu but presents them in a fun, handheld brownie format that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Let me take you through this irresistible dessert that feels both familiar and refreshingly inventive!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with thick, dark brown chocolate batter that has a rough, textured surface. On top of the batter, slightly off-center to the left, is a bright yellow raw egg yolk with smooth, shiny edges, surrounded by a small amount of clear egg white. On the right side of the bowl, a metal whisk with chocolate batter on its wires rests partially submerged in the batter. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a key role in balancing flavor, texture, or that iconic tiramisu appearance. From rich espresso powder to delicate lady fingers, expect nothing but harmonious deliciousness.

Unsalted butter (½ cup or 115g): Adds richness and helps create a fudgy brownie base.
Semi-sweet chocolate (6 oz or 170g): Provides deep chocolate flavor that pairs perfectly with coffee.
Espresso powder (2 tablespoons): Two uses—one for the brownie batter and one to soak the lady fingers—to infuse true coffee notes.
Granulated sugar (1 ¼ cups + 1 tablespoon): Sweetens both brownie and coffee soak to balance bitterness.
Large eggs (3): Help bind the brownie ingredients and create a moist texture.
Pure vanilla flavoring (2 teaspoons): Adds warmth and depth to both the brownie and mascarpone layers.
Vegetable oil (3 tablespoons): Keeps brownies tender and moist without weighing them down.
Unsweetened cocoa powder (½ cup or 40g): Boosts the overall chocolate intensity.
Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness.
All-purpose flour (½ cup or 65g): Gives structure to the brownies, keeping them chewy.
Boiling water (⅔ cup or 160mL): Used to dissolve espresso powder and sugar for soaking lady fingers.
Savoiardi lady fingers (12): The iconic tiramisu element that soaks up coffee beautifully.
Cold mascarpone cheese (8 oz or 225g): The creamy, dreamy highlight of the topping.
Powdered sugar (⅓ cup or 45g): Sweetens the mascarpone topping gently.
Cold heavy whipping cream (1 cup or 240mL): Whipped into the mascarpone for a light, fluffy finish.
Cocoa powder (for dusting): The elegant final flourish that completes the look and flavor.

How to Make Tiramisu Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Espresso Brownie Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and preparing an 8×8 inch baking pan with butter and parchment paper for easy removal later. Melt the unsalted butter over medium heat just until it sizzles, then whisk in chopped semi-sweet chocolate and espresso powder until velvety smooth. Next, combine this hot chocolate mixture with granulated sugar in a large bowl, whisking until mixed. It may look grainy, which is perfectly normal. Slowly incorporate eggs one at a time for a smooth batter, then add vanilla, vegetable oil, cocoa powder, and salt. Finally, gently fold in the flour, taking care not to overmix to keep your brownies tender.

Step 2: Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for about 27 to 32 minutes until the top looks set but the center still holds fudgy crumbs. Allow these brownies to cool completely in the pan; patience here ensures layering success.

Step 3: Prepare the Coffee for Lady Fingers

Mix boiling water with espresso powder and granulated sugar until dissolved and cool the mixture to room temperature. This aromatic coffee soak will bring authentic tiramisu flavor into the lady fingers without making them soggy.

Step 4: Layer Lady Fingers on Brownies

Briefly dip each lady finger into the cooled coffee mixture—just about a second—to soak up the perfect amount. Arrange them in a layer directly on top of the cooled brownie base, trimming as needed. This layer brings that irresistible coffee-soaked texture and bridges brownie decadence with tiramisu tradition.

Step 5: Make the Mascarpone Cream Topping

Using a mixer, blend cold mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Slowly drizzle in cold heavy cream while mixing on low to prevent clumping, pausing to scrape the bowl after each addition. Once all cream is incorporated, increase mixer speed to whip until stiff peaks form. Dollop this cloud-like cream evenly over the lady finger layer and smooth it out for a picture-perfect finish. Chill your masterpiece for at least an hour to set perfectly.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies from the pan with ease. Dust generously with cocoa powder to add that classic tiramisu signature look, then slice and get ready to wow your taste buds!

How to Serve Tiramisu Brownies Recipe

A square dessert with three layers sits centered on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is dark brown and looks dense and moist like a chocolate cake. The middle layer is lighter brown and textured, resembling a soft sponge or biscuit. The top layer is thick and creamy white, smooth and fluffy, dusted evenly with a fine cocoa powder that gives a rich brown color on top. The edges of the dessert are clean and straight. In the blurred background, there is another piece of the same dessert. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A light dusting of cocoa powder is a must for not just looks but boosting the chocolate-coffee magic. For an extra touch, sprinkle shaved chocolate curls or finely grated dark chocolate on top to add texture and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of rich chocolate sauce. A small glass of coffee or espresso alongside will elevate your experience, perfectly complementing the layered coffee notes in the brownies.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your tiramisu brownies in individual glass jars for a charming, portable dessert or cut into small squares and arrange on a platter with fresh berries. For a party, add mini spoons and a sprinkle of edible gold dust for a little festive flare that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover tiramisu brownies tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to keep the layers fresh and moist. Stored in the refrigerator, they should be delicious for up to 3 days, making them great for making ahead of events.

Freezing

You can freeze these brownies before adding the mascarpone cream topping. Wrap individual brownies or the whole pan tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add the mascarpone layer fresh before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

Because tiramisu brownies are best enjoyed chilled, warming is not recommended. Allow them to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes if taken straight from the fridge for a perfect balance of creamy and fudgy.

FAQs

Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso powder?

Yes, instant coffee can work in a pinch, but espresso powder tends to have a stronger, purer coffee flavor that really elevates the tiramisu brownies. If using instant coffee, reduce the amount slightly to avoid bitterness.

Do I have to use lady fingers?

Lady fingers are traditional and absorb the coffee soak beautifully, giving that classic tiramisu feel. However, you can substitute with thin sponge cake slices if needed, but the texture and soaking capability may vary.

Is mascarpone cheese essential, or can I substitute it?

Mascarpone gives tiramisu its iconic creamy texture and slightly tangy flavor. While cream cheese can be used as a substitute, it will change the taste and texture slightly. For the best results, stick with mascarpone.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, try using dairy-free butter and chocolate, plus a plant-based mascarpone alternative if available. The texture and flavor might differ, but you’ll still get a tasty dessert with tiramisu brownie vibes.

How long should the brownies chill before serving?

At least one hour in the refrigerator is recommended to let the mascarpone cream layer firm up nicely. For even better flavor melding, chilling for a few hours or overnight is ideal.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Tiramisu Brownies Recipe—a perfect blend of fudgy, creamy, and coffee-soaked goodness wrapped up in one delicious dessert. It’s a way to enjoy tiramisu with a twist, perfect for sharing or treating yourself. I hope you dive in and make it soon; these brownies are an absolute crowd-pleaser that will brighten any occasion!