Easy Tiramisu Brownies: The Ultimate Coffee-Lovers’ Dessert Mashup

These Easy Tiramisu Brownies are what dessert dreams are made of—a rich, fudgy brownie base topped with a creamy mascarpone layer and finished with a dusting of cocoa powder and a hint of espresso. If you love classic tiramisu and crave chewy, chocolatey brownies, this recipe blends the best of both worlds into one effortless treat.

Perfect for potlucks, dinner parties, holidays, or an indulgent weekend bake, these brownies have all the flavor of tiramisu with none of the fuss. And yes—they’re just as decadent as they sound.

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Why You’ll Love These Tiramisu Brownies

• Easy to make – no ladyfingers, no complex layering

• Coffee & chocolate combo – deeply satisfying and bold

• Perfect textures – chewy brownie + creamy mascarpone

• Freezer-friendly and portable – great for parties and gifting

Whether you use a homemade brownie recipe or a box mix, the mascarpone topping and espresso soak make this dessert unforgettable.

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Ingredients Overview: What You’ll Need & Why

1. Brownie Layer

Use your favorite homemade brownie recipe or a fudge-style box mix for ease. The dense, moist texture works perfectly under the creamy topping.

2. Espresso Soak

Classic tiramisu uses espresso to soak ladyfingers. Here, a strong espresso or brewed coffee is brushed onto the brownie layer after baking to infuse that signature tiramisu depth.

3. Mascarpone Cream Layer

This luscious topping is a simplified version of tiramisu cream, made with:

• Mascarpone cheese: Traditional and creamy with a subtle tang

• Heavy cream: Whipped to lighten the texture

• Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness without grit

• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors

4. Cocoa Powder

Lightly dusted on top for that authentic tiramisu look and a touch of bitterness to balance the sweetness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Brownie Layer

• Prepare your favorite 9×9-inch brownie recipe or use 1 box of fudge brownie mix according to package instructions.

• Bake and let cool completely.

Step 2: Soak with Espresso

• Brew ½ cup strong espresso or dark coffee.

• Once brownies are cool, poke small holes over the top using a fork or skewer.

• Brush or drizzle the espresso over the surface slowly, allowing it to soak in.

• Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes to let the flavors set.

Step 3: Make the Mascarpone Topping

In a chilled bowl, beat:

• 1 cup heavy cream until soft peaks form.

In another bowl, mix:

• 8 oz mascarpone cheese

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture gently until fully combined and fluffy.

Step 4: Assemble

• Spread the mascarpone cream evenly over the cooled, soaked brownie layer.

• Smooth with an offset spatula or spoon.

• Dust generously with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine sieve.

Step 5: Chill & Serve

• Refrigerate the assembled tiramisu brownies for at least 2 hours before slicing. Overnight is even better for flavor development.

• Cut into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Expert Tips

• Cool brownies fully before adding the espresso or topping.

• Use good-quality cocoa powder for a true tiramisu flavor.

• Don’t overwhip the cream—stop at soft peaks for the perfect texture.

Variations

• Boozy version: Add 1–2 tablespoons of Kahlúa, amaretto, or rum to the espresso soak.

• Layered look: Swirl a little mascarpone topping into the brownie batter before baking for a marbled effect.

• Chocolate chips: Add chocolate chips or espresso chips to the brownie batter for extra texture.

• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free brownie mix or homemade base.

Substitutions

• No mascarpone? Use cream cheese, but beat well to smooth out the tanginess and adjust sugar to taste.

• No espresso machine? Use instant espresso powder or strong brewed coffee.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

These brownies are classy enough for celebrations but simple enough for everyday indulgence.

Serve With:

• A dusting of dark chocolate shavings or curls

• Fresh berries or strawberries on the side

• A hot cup of espresso or cappuccino

• A scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream for a plated dessert

Perfect For:

• Dinner parties and potlucks

• Valentine’s Day or holiday desserts

• Birthday treat trays

• Make-ahead desserts (flavor improves overnight)

• Coffee bar or brunch tables

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Nutritional & Health Notes

While indulgent, these brownies are made from real, simple ingredients and can be portioned for mindful eating.

• Rich in calcium from mascarpone and cream

• Caffeine boost from espresso or coffee

• No raw eggs in the topping (unlike classic tiramisu)

• Can be adapted for gluten-free or reduced sugar diets with appropriate swaps

Want to make them lighter?

• Use Greek yogurt in place of part of the mascarpone

• Try a sugar substitute in the topping

• Use almond flour brownie base for lower carbs

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use store-bought brownies?

Yes! Just choose a chewy, fudgy style. Avoid cakey brownies for this recipe.

2. What can I use instead of mascarpone?

Cream cheese works in a pinch, though it’s tangier and firmer. Soften it well and mix with a splash of cream to get a smoother texture.

3. Do I need to refrigerate tiramisu brownies?

Yes. Because of the mascarpone and whipped cream topping, they should be kept refrigerated. Let them sit for 5–10 minutes before serving for best texture.

4. Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. These brownies taste better after chilling overnight, making them ideal for prep-ahead desserts.

5. How long do tiramisu brownies last?

They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. Store in an airtight container.

6. Can I freeze tiramisu brownies?

Yes, but the texture of the topping may change slightly. Freeze uncut, wrapped tightly, and thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

7. Can I make them without caffeine?

Sure! Use decaf espresso or coffee for the same great flavor without the buzz.

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