Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Base
- 6 oz bittersweet chocolate (high-quality)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup espresso or strong coffee (cooled)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
Mascarpone Layer
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon espresso or coffee liqueur (optional)
Finishing Touch
- Cocoa powder (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the brownie base: Melt the bittersweet chocolate and butter together until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with sugar until pale and slightly fluffy. Blend in the vanilla extract and the cooled chocolate mixture. Gently fold in the espresso, flour, and cocoa powder to create a thick, fudgy batter.
- Bake the brownies: Pour the batter evenly into a greased or parchment-lined pan, smoothing the surface. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, until edges are set but the center remains soft. Allow to cool completely before the next step.
- Prepare the mascarpone layer: Beat mascarpone cheese with sugar and a splash of espresso or coffee liqueur until creamy and smooth.
- Assemble and chill: Spread the mascarpone mixture evenly over the cooled brownie base. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and topping to set.
- Dust and serve: Just before serving, sift cocoa powder generously over the top to mimic traditional tiramisu and enhance chocolate bitterness.
Notes
- Use the best quality bittersweet chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep brownies tender and moist.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before adding mascarpone to prevent melting or separation.
- Chill for at least 2 hours to let flavors meld and topping set properly.
- Adjust espresso or coffee intensity to taste for mild or strong coffee flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Can be adapted to gluten free or vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (approx. 1/12 of recipe)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 45 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: tiramisu brownies, fudgy brownies, coffee dessert, mascarpone dessert, easy brownies, Italian dessert