Description
These Best Tiramisu Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with a creamy coffee-flavored tiramisu topping, creating an indulgent hybrid dessert perfect for coffee and chocolate lovers alike. The brownies have a dense, moist texture with a shiny, crackly top, while the tiramisu layer offers a fluffy, tangy contrast influenced by coffee ice cream and espresso powder.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Tiramisu Topping
- 2 cups coffee ice cream (scooped out and then melted)
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
- Cocoa powder (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Layer: Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper and preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This setup ensures easy removal and even baking of the brownies.
- Melt Butter: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the unsalted butter slowly, taking care not to let it brown or sputter. Slow melting preserves the butter’s smooth texture needed for the brownies.
- Add Cocoa and Sugar: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cocoa powder and granulated sugar thoroughly. The mixture will be grainy at this point but this is expected.
- Incorporate Vanilla and Salt: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Continue stirring the mix for about one minute to allow the heat to subside. The mixture should be warm but not hot to touch; if still hot, let it rest briefly before the next step.
- Mix in Eggs and Flour: Whisk in eggs one at a time until fully combined. Then add the flour and stir vigorously, at least 50 strokes, to integrate completely and develop a smooth batter.
- Bake the Brownies: Transfer the thick brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 to 29 minutes until the top looks dry and shiny, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Cool the Brownies: Allow the brownies to cool completely while you prepare the topping. Cooling is essential to prevent the tiramisu topping from melting when applied.
- Prepare the Tiramisu Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted coffee ice cream, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and instant espresso powder. Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture becomes fluffy and creamy.
- Assemble and Chill: Spread the tiramisu topping evenly over the cooled brownies. Chill the assembled dessert for at least one hour to set or refrigerate overnight for best results.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder, cut into 16 squares, and enjoy this decadent treat.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs to ensure smooth mixing and better incorporation.
- Melting the coffee ice cream makes it easier to blend with the cream cheese for a smooth topping.
- Letting the brownies cool completely is crucial to keep the tiramisu topping from becoming too soft or melting.
- For a stronger coffee flavor, increase the instant espresso powder up to 1 1/2 teaspoons.
- This recipe works well with any coffee ice cream or even espresso-flavored gelato.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 29 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
