Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- ¾ cup butter
- ¾ cup Dutch process cocoa powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Tiramisu Layer
- 14 ladyfingers
- 1 cup espresso or other strong coffee
- 1 cup sugar, divided
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Finishing
- Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal of the brownies.
- Melt Butter and Cocoa: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and Dutch-process cocoa powder together, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Mix Eggs and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and 1 cup sugar until well combined and slightly thickened.
- Combine Mixtures: Add the cooled butter-cocoa mixture and vanilla extract to the egg mixture and mix on low speed until incorporated.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt, then gently fold or mix on low speed until just combined.
- Bake Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Poke Holes and Cool: Once baked, use a fork to poke several small holes across the brownie surface. Allow brownies to cool to room temperature.
- Prepare Espresso Mixture: Combine espresso and ½ cup sugar in a shallow dish. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture to soak slightly without becoming soggy.
- Assemble Ladyfingers: Arrange a single layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers evenly over the cooled brownie layer.
- Make Mascarpone Cream: In a large bowl, whip together mascarpone, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and remaining ½ cup sugar until the mixture holds medium peaks.
- Top with Cream and Chill: Spread the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers layer. Refrigerate for at least 4 to 6 hours, or until set.
- Finish and Serve: Just before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder for an authentic tiramisu finish. Slice into 16 servings and enjoy.
Notes
- Be careful not to over-soak the ladyfingers in coffee to prevent sogginess.
- For stronger coffee flavor, use freshly brewed espresso.
- Allow ample chilling time for the mascarpone cream to firm up properly.
- To make slicing easier, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire dessert from the pan.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American