Tiramisu Brownies

Biting into a dessert that’s both deeply comforting and excitingly sophisticated. Tiramisu Brownies are precisely that a delightful paradox of familiar brownie indulgence layered with the dreamy, coffee kissed essence of tiramisu. This recipe is not just about baking; it’s about crafting an experience, a moment of pure dessert bliss that marries the best of two worlds into one unforgettable treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

• A Decadent Fusion: This recipe offers an unexpected yet harmonious blend of two dessert icons. The rich, fudgy brownie base provides a familiar comfort, while the creamy, coffee-infused tiramisu layer adds a touch of Italian elegance, creating a truly unique flavour profile.
• Effortless to Impress: Despite its sophisticated taste and layered presentation, Tiramisu Brownies are surprisingly simple to prepare. The steps are clearly defined, making it an achievable baking project even for those new to layered desserts.
• Intriguing Texture Play: Prepare for a delightful textural journey with every bite. The dense, chewy brownie base contrasts beautifully with the light and airy mascarpone cream, creating a symphony of textures that elevates the entire dessert experience.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavours: The intensity of dark chocolate and coffee is perfectly balanced by the sweet, creamy mascarpone layer. This harmonious interplay of bitter and sweet notes ensures that the Tiramisu Brownies are never cloying, but always satisfyingly rich.
• Versatile Dessert Sensation: These brownies are incredibly versatile, suitable for a casual weeknight treat, an elegant dinner party finale, or a special occasion celebration. Their unique flavour and appealing presentation make them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any event.

Ingredients:

For the Fudgy Brownie Foundation

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, consider this the soul of the brownie’s richness. Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the brownies and provides a pure, creamy fat that contributes to the signature fudgy texture. It melts into the batter, creating a moist and tender crumb.
• 1 ¼ cups (250g) granulated sugar, the sweetener that not only adds the necessary sugary note but also plays a crucial role in achieving that desirable chewy texture. Granulated sugar dissolves into the melted butter, creating a base for a glossy, crackled top and a soft, dense interior.
• ¾ cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder, Dutch-processed cocoa powder is highly recommended for its smoother, less acidic flavour and darker colour, enhancing the chocolate intensity of the brownies. It’s the key to that deep, rich chocolate experience that brownie lovers crave.
• ½ tsp fine sea salt, a flavour enhancer, salt might seem counterintuitive in a sweet dessert, but it’s essential for balancing the sweetness and intensifying the chocolate notes. It prevents the brownies from tasting one-dimensional and brings out the complexity of the other ingredients.
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract, a flavour amplifier, vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic depth to the brownie base, complementing the chocolate and sugar. It rounds out the flavour profile, making the brownies taste more sophisticated and complete.
• 3 large fresh eggs, these are the binders and texture creators. Eggs provide structure, richness, and moisture to the brownie batter. They emulsify the fats and liquids, contributing to the fudgy, chewy texture that distinguishes brownies from cake.
• ¾ cup (90g) all-purpose flour, the structural backbone, flour provides the necessary framework for the brownies, ensuring they hold their shape and have a satisfyingly chewy texture. All-purpose flour strikes a balance, preventing the brownies from becoming too cakey or too dense.

For the Aromatic Coffee Infusion

• ½ cup (120ml) freshly brewed hot coffee, strong and bold coffee is the heart of the tiramisu element, infusing both the brownie base and the mascarpone layer with its signature aroma and slightly bitter notes. The heat helps dissolve the sugar in the syrup and intensifies the coffee flavour.
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar, sweetness for the coffee syrup, sugar balances the bitterness of the coffee and creates a syrupy consistency that perfectly soaks into the brownie base, adding moisture and flavour.

For the Luxurious Mascarpone Cream Layer

• 8 oz (226g) mascarpone cheese, the soul of tiramisu’s creamy richness. Mascarpone is an Italian cream cheese known for its incredibly smooth, rich, and slightly sweet flavour. It forms the foundation of the creamy layer, providing the authentic tiramisu taste and texture. Ensure it is full-fat for the best results.
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream, for airy volume and lightness, heavy cream, when whipped, adds volume and a delicate lightness to the mascarpone layer. It prevents the cream from being too dense and creates a cloud-like texture that contrasts beautifully with the fudgy brownie base.
• ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar, sweetness and stabilization for the cream. Powdered sugar dissolves smoothly into the mascarpone and whipped cream, sweetening the layer without adding graininess. It also helps stabilize the whipped cream, ensuring it holds its shape.
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract, flavour enhancer for the creamy layer, vanilla extract enhances the sweetness and creaminess of the mascarpone layer, adding a touch of warmth and complementing the coffee and chocolate flavours.

For the Classic Tiramisu Dusting

• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for a sophisticated finish. A dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder is the quintessential tiramisu finishing touch. It adds a subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness and creates a visually appealing contrast against the creamy white layer.

How to Make Tiramisu Brownies ?

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Step 1: Laying the Brownie Foundation

Begin by preheating your oven to a consistent 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and prevents hot spots. Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it generously with butter and lightly dusting with flour to prevent sticking, or for even easier removal and guaranteed non-stick, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to act as handles later.

In a large bowl that is microwave-safe, gently melt the unsalted butter. Microwaving is a quick and efficient method, but be cautious not to overheat the butter. Stir in the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and sea salt into the melted butter. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined and the mixture appears somewhat grainy – this is perfectly normal at this stage.

Introduce the vanilla extract to deepen the flavour profile of the brownie base. Allow the mixture to cool slightly for a few minutes before proceeding to the next step. This cooling is important to prevent the heat from cooking the eggs prematurely.

Step 2: Building the Brownie Batter

Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the slightly cooled chocolate mixture, whisking vigorously after each addition until the batter becomes smooth and develops a beautiful glossy sheen. This step is crucial for emulsifying the ingredients and creating that signature fudgy brownie texture.

Gently add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, mixing only until just combined. It is paramount to avoid overmixing at this stage; overmixing develops gluten, which can result in tougher brownies. Stop mixing as soon as the flour is incorporated and no streaks remain.

Step 3: Baking to Fudgy Perfection

Pour the prepared brownie batter into your pre-lined or greased baking pan, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent baking.

Bake in the preheated oven for precisely 20-25 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. For fudgy brownies, the toothpick should emerge with moist crumbs clinging to it, not completely clean. Resist the urge to overbake, as this will lead to drier brownies. Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan placed on a wire rack. Complete cooling is essential before adding the tiramisu layers.

Step 4: Crafting the Coffee Syrup

While the brownie base is cooling, prepare the flavourful coffee syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the freshly brewed hot coffee with granulated sugar. Stir continuously over low heat until the sugar is completely dissolved and the syrup slightly thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the coffee syrup to cool slightly. This syrup will be the key to infusing the brownies with that distinctive tiramisu coffee essence.

Step 5: Whipping Up the Mascarpone Cream

In a large mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese using an electric mixer until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. Ensure the mascarpone is at room temperature for easier blending and a lump-free cream.

In a separate, chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream together with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Be vigilant not to overwhip the cream, as this can lead to a grainy texture.

Gently fold the whipped cream into the softened mascarpone cheese, combining them until just incorporated. Be careful to maintain the airiness of the whipped cream; avoid overmixing, which can deflate the cream and result in a denser layer.

Step 6: Assembling the Tiramisu Masterpiece

Once the brownie base has cooled entirely, use a skewer or toothpick to create numerous holes across the surface of the brownies. This allows the coffee syrup to penetrate deeply and evenly, ensuring every bite is infused with coffee flavour.

Spoon the slightly cooled coffee syrup evenly over the brownie base, allowing it to soak in gradually. The amount of syrup used can be adjusted to your preference for coffee intensity and desired brownie texture.

Carefully spread the prepared mascarpone cream evenly over the coffee-soaked brownie base, creating a smooth, white layer that contrasts beautifully with the dark brownies.

Step 7: Chilling and Final Flourish

Cover the entire pan of Tiramisu Brownies tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 2-3 hours, or ideally overnight. This chilling period is crucial for allowing the flavours to meld together harmoniously and for the mascarpone cream to set firmly, creating clean slices.

Just before serving, generously dust the top of the Tiramisu Brownies with unsweetened cocoa powder. Cut the brownies into squares of your desired size and serve them chilled directly from the refrigerator.

Tips for Variations:

Intensified Coffee Kick

For true coffee aficionados, amplify the coffee flavour by using an even stronger brewed coffee or espresso in the syrup. You could also incorporate a tablespoon of coffee liqueur flavouring (non-alcoholic) into the coffee syrup or directly into the mascarpone cream for a more pronounced coffee note.

Mocha Chocolate Swirl

Enhance the chocolate-coffee synergy by adding chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips to the brownie batter. For a visually appealing swirl, melt some extra dark chocolate and drizzle it over the mascarpone cream before chilling, creating a beautiful mocha effect.

Nutty Hazelnut Crunch

Introduce a delightful nutty element by incorporating toasted hazelnuts into the brownie batter or sprinkling chopped hazelnuts over the mascarpone cream. Hazelnuts pair wonderfully with both chocolate and coffee, adding a textural crunch and complementary flavour notes.

Citrus Zest Brightness

Add a hint of citrus brightness to cut through the richness by incorporating orange zest or lemon zest into the mascarpone cream. A teaspoon of finely grated zest will add a refreshing aromatic lift that complements the other flavours without overpowering them.

Caramel Coffee Drizzle

Elevate the indulgence factor by drizzling caramel sauce over the mascarpone cream before dusting with cocoa powder. The caramel adds another layer of sweetness and a gooey texture that complements the fudgy brownies and creamy topping beautifully. Use a high-quality caramel sauce for the best flavour.

Serving Suggestions:

Classic Dessert Pairing

Serve Tiramisu Brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or chocolate gelato. The cold ice cream provides a refreshing contrast to the rich brownies, creating a balanced and satisfying dessert experience.

Coffee house Style Presentation

Present Tiramisu Brownies on a dessert plate with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate-covered coffee beans or espresso powder. This elevates the presentation and enhances the coffee theme, creating a café-style dessert experience.

Dessert Board Centrepiece

Include Tiramisu Brownies, cut into smaller squares or rectangles, as part of a dessert board featuring a variety of sweet treats like fruit skewers, mini cheesecakes, and chocolate-dipped strawberries. This offers guests a diverse and visually appealing dessert selection.

Elegant Afternoon Tea Treat

Serve Tiramisu Brownies as a sophisticated treat during afternoon tea. Pair them with a selection of gourmet teas, finger sandwiches, and scones for an elegant and indulgent afternoon gathering.

Brownie and Berry Bowl

Create a delightful dessert bowl by layering crumbled Tiramisu Brownies with fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. Top with a dollop of mascarpone cream and a dusting of cocoa powder for a lighter yet still decadent dessert option.

FAQ

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be gluten-free. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure the blend is designed for baking and contains xanthan gum or another binder for texture. The rest of the recipe remains the same.

How do I prevent the mascarpone cream from being too runny?

To ensure a firm mascarpone cream, make sure your mascarpone cheese and heavy cream are both well-chilled before whipping. Do not overwhip the heavy cream; whip just until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone until just combined, avoiding overmixing. Chilling the assembled brownies for at least 2-3 hours is also crucial for setting the cream.

Can I use instant coffee for the coffee syrup?

While freshly brewed coffee is recommended for the best flavour, you can use instant coffee in a pinch. Dissolve the instant coffee granules in hot water to create a strong coffee concentrate before making the syrup. The flavour may not be as nuanced as freshly brewed coffee, but it will still provide a coffee flavour.

What is the best way to cut Tiramisu Brownies cleanly?

For clean cuts, ensure the Tiramisu Brownies are thoroughly chilled and firm. Use a sharp, non-serrated knife and dip it in hot water and wipe it clean between each cut. This prevents the brownies and mascarpone cream from sticking to the knife and creates neat, professional-looking slices.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double this recipe to make a larger batch of Tiramisu Brownies. Simply double all the ingredient quantities and bake in a larger 13×18 inch baking pan. Baking time may need to be slightly increased, so check for doneness using a toothpick.

Tiramisu Brownies are a testament to the magic that happens when classic desserts collide. They offer a sophisticated yet comforting treat, perfect for anyone seeking a unique and deeply satisfying dessert experience. From the fudgy brownie base to the creamy, coffee-infused topping, each layer contributes to a harmonious symphony of flavours and textures. Embrace the delightful fusion of Italian and American dessert traditions and let Tiramisu Brownies become your new go-to recipe for impressing and indulging.

With their layers of rich chocolate, creamy mascarpone, and aromatic coffee, these Tiramisu Brownies offer a dessert experience that is both familiar and excitingly novel. Don’t hesitate to bring this delightful fusion to your next gathering or simply enjoy them as a special treat for yourself you’re in for a truly delicious indulgence.

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