This is the kind of dessert that makes you pause mid-bite and say, “Oh wow.” Rich, creamy, chocolatey, and kissed with espresso—these tiramisu brownies are pure indulgence.

Fudgy tiramisu brownies recipe with espresso mascarpone topping and cocoa dusting

These Tiramisu Brownies are my go-to when I’m craving something rich, indulgent, and totally irresistible. It’s like the ultimate mashup of two classic desserts—fudgy brownies and creamy tiramisu—in one heavenly square.

I love how the rich chocolate base pairs beautifully with the espresso-soaked ladyfingers and luscious mascarpone topping, creating a perfectly layered treat. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to make—just bake, soak, whip, and chill!

Want to make the best tiramisu brownies? I’ve got all the tips to help you get that dense fudgy texture, fluffy cream topping, and just the right hint of coffee in every bite. And let’s not forget the dusting of cocoa—a simple touch that makes it feel extra special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Two Desserts in One: Combines rich brownies with classic tiramisu flavors.
Perfect Make-Ahead Treat: Chill and serve for parties, holidays, or special evenings.
Impressively Easy: Minimal steps with a bakery-worthy result!

Ingredients Needed

This layered dessert may look fancy, but it’s made with everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand. Here’s a quick look at everything you’ll need. Scroll to the recipe card below for full measurements and instructions.

Brownie Base

Butter – Browned butter adds a deep, nutty flavor that enhances the richness of the chocolate. Use unsalted butter for better control over the salt content.
Semisweet chocolate chips – Melted into the browned butter, they create a silky, chocolatey base for the brownies.
Sugar – Sweetened with granulated sugar and light brown sugar for added moisture and a subtle caramel flavor that complements the espresso and chocolate.
Salt
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Cocoa powder – Unsweetened cocoa for the rich chocolate flavor. Dutch-process or natural both work.
Espresso powder
All-purpose flour

Espresso-Soaked Layer

Ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi) – These light cookies soak up the espresso perfectly, creating a classic tiramisu layer right on top of the brownies.
Strong brewed espresso or coffee – Adds bold coffee flavor.

Mascarpone Cream Topping

Mascarpone cheese
Heavy cream
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract

Finishing Touch

Unsweetened cocoa powder – A generous dusting over the top gives it that signature tiramisu finish.

How to Make Tiramisu Brownies

Don’t be intimidated by the layers—these tiramisu brownies come together with just a few bowls and simple steps. The printable instructions are in the recipe card below.

Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting later.

Make the Brownie Base

Brown the butter in a saucepan or microwave (cook until golden and nutty in aroma). Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until smooth.
Whisk in both sugars, salt, eggs, and vanilla until glossy.
Sift in cocoa powder and flour, then fold until just combined.
Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

Bake

Bake for 25–28 minutes or until set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool completely in the pan before layering.

Soak the Ladyfingers

In a shallow dish, pour the cooled espresso.
Quickly dip each ladyfinger (1–2 seconds per side) and arrange in a single layer over the brownies. Trim to fit if needed.

Make the Mascarpone Topping

In a bowl, beat mascarpone, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

Layer and Chill

Spread the cream mixture evenly over the ladyfingers.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.

Finish and Serve

Dust the top generously with cocoa powder just before serving.
Slice into 16 squares and enjoy!

Tips for Success

Use High-Quality Cocoa: For rich chocolate flavor, opt for Dutch-process cocoa.
Don’t Over-Soak the Ladyfingers: A quick dip is enough—too long and they’ll get soggy.
Chill Fully: The longer the chill, the cleaner your slices and better the flavor blend.
Cut Clean Squares: Use a warm knife for neater cuts after chilling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled with a hot espresso or dessert wine.
Top with chocolate curls or espresso beans for a decorative flair.
Make a brownie sundae with a scoop of vanilla gelato!

How to Store

Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual squares (well wrapped) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! In fact, they taste better after a few hours of chilling. Plan ahead for a stress-free serving experience.

Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone? Yes, but the flavor and texture will be tangier and slightly firmer. Soften it well before using.

Do these brownies contain alcohol? Not as written, but you can easily add a splash of coffee liqueur to the espresso soak for an adult-friendly version.

And that’s it! These Tiramisu Brownies are the no-stress treat that looks impressive but comes together so easily. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering, coffee date, or cozy night in, they’re sure to be a crowd favorite!

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