Small Batch Tiramisu Brownies

These small batch tiramisu brownies deliver the best of both worlds for dessert lovers. Imagine a thick swirl of chocolate fudge brownie topped with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and a dreamy cloud of mascarpone whipped cream. I reach for this recipe when I want the comfort of brownies but crave a little café flair in a smaller pan.

I first made these when I wanted to impress a friend with something bakery-worthy using what I had on hand. Now anytime I miss traveling to Italy I bake a batch and it brings the memories right back.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: gives fudgy richness and helps the chocolate melt smoothly
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: create deep chocolate notes Look for glossy chips without a white bloom for freshness
• Dutch process cocoa powder: boosts chocolate depth Look for a true dark dutch-processed variety for the most flavor
• Granulated sugar: sweetens brownies and cream Always use fresh sugar that pours easily
• Instant espresso: infuses both the brownies and ladyfingers with bold coffee undertones Choose a finely ground type for even flavor
• Fresh egg plus egg yolk: adds richness and chew Aim for eggs with bright golden yolks
• All purpose flour: provides just enough structure so brownies stay gooey
• Salt: sharpens the chocolate and coffee flavors Use fine sea salt for best blending
• Mascarpone: creates the creamy whipped topping Choose a brand with a clean fresh flavor
• Heavy whipping cream: makes the topping light and luscious Always use cold cream for max volume
• Granulated sugar: also sweetens the whipped topping
• Vanilla bean paste: brings a deep aromatic hint Find real paste with visible vanilla seeds if possible
• Espresso or cold brew: is used for soaking the ladyfingers Choose a strong brew for best flavor
• Coffee liquor (optional): adds a grown up richness in the soak Use your favorite
• Ladyfingers: provide the signature tiramisu texture Look for crisp ones that are not too thick
• Extra dutch process cocoa powder: is for dusting and a finishing flourish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Butter an eight by four inch metal loaf pan and line it with parchment paper so the brownies lift out easily after baking

Melt the Chocolate Mixture:

In a microwave safe bowl melt together butter and chocolate chips in thirty second bursts stirring well each time until you get a smooth glossy mixture

Whisk the Batter Base:

Whisk in the cocoa powder sugar and instant espresso to blend with the warm chocolate Mix until all the sugar has begun to dissolve

Add Eggs:

Add in one whole egg plus one extra yolk then whisk vigorously for at least a minute or two for extra fudgy texture This helps emulsify the batter

Fold in Flour and Salt:

Sprinkle flour and salt over the batter and gently fold with a spatula just until combined Be careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender

Bake the Brownies:

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top Bake in a three fifty degree oven for twenty five to thirty minutes Edges should look set and the center just slightly wobbly If you have a kitchen thermometer the center should read at least one hundred eighty degrees

Make the Mascarpone Cream:

While brownies cool beat together mascarpone granulated sugar and vanilla bean paste with a hand or stand mixer until just blended On low speed slowly pour in cold heavy cream then beat on medium until soft peaks form Cover and chill until ready to layer

Brew and Cool Espresso:

Prepare espresso or cold brew for soaking the ladyfingers Let it cool to room temperature so it does not make the topping runny Coffee liquor is optional here

Assemble and Layer:

Once brownies are completely cool combine espresso with coffee liquor if using Dip ladyfingers for a second or two in the mixture and nestle them across the brownie top

Add Whipped Cream:

Spread or pipe the mascarpone whipped cream over the ladyfingers For a pretty look smooth a thin layer first then use a piping bag for rosettes with the rest

Chill and Finish:

Cover the assembled brownies and refrigerate for at least one hour so the flavors meld and the structure firms up Before serving sift a generous amount of cocoa powder over the top Slice with a sharp knife and enjoy

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Mascarpone is my favorite part and my brother always tries to sneak extra cream when I am not looking This recipe is our go to celebration treat for family birthdays or a snow day in

Storage Tips

Store any leftover tiramisu brownies in the fridge covered tightly to keep them moist The brownies and toppings hold up for about three days The mascarpone whipped cream stays fluffy if you cover the pan with plastic wrap touching the surface before storing

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find ladyfingers you can substitute with plain vanilla wafers or thin slices of pound cake Dunk them quickly in espresso so they do not fall apart No mascarpone Use full fat cream cheese whipped until smooth as an alternative though the flavor will shift slightly

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled for the neatest slices but let the brownies sit at room temp for ten minutes if you like a softer cream Try dusting with cinnamon along with cocoa powder or adding thin chocolate shavings for a decorative touch They pair perfectly with a shot of espresso or milky coffee

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Cultural Context

This dessert blends the nostalgic comfort of American brownies with two iconic Italian elements mascarpone cream and espresso soaked ladyfingers Traditional tiramisu is layered and served as a trifle but this small batch recipe lets you have all the flavors in a slice that feels both classic and new

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ How strong should the espresso be for soaking the ladyfingers?

Use a strong, freshly brewed espresso or concentrated cold brew for soaking the ladyfingers, as this gives the most robust coffee flavor.

→ Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble and chill the brownies for several hours or overnight. This helps the flavors develop and the texture to set.

→ What if I don’t have coffee liquor?

Omit the coffee liquor if needed—the espresso alone still offers a rich coffee taste for soaking the ladyfingers.

→ Can I substitute mascarpone in the whipped cream topping?

Cream cheese is a possible substitute for mascarpone, but the flavor will be slightly tangier and less smooth than traditional mascarpone.

→ Why use a metal loaf pan for baking?

Metal loaf pans conduct heat more efficiently, resulting in even baking and fudgy, well-set brownies.

→ How do I know when the brownies are done?

The brownies are done when the edges are set, the center slightly wobbles, or a thermometer reads at least 180°F/82°C.