Espresso Brownie Tiramisu Bars – A Shockingly Decadent Dessert That Melts in Your Mouth

Thank you for being here, my friend. This recipe right here? This is one of those “I probably shouldn’t have another piece… but I will” desserts. These Espresso Brownie Tiramisu Bars bring together everything we love: a fudgy espresso brownie bottom, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and a cloud-like mascarpone cream that tastes straight out of an Italian café. It’s tiramisu with a bold American brownie backbone—and trust me, nonna would approve.

If you love coffee desserts, dramatic layers, and recipes that make people ask for “just one more square,” you’re going to fall hard for this one. Be sure to subscribe by email so you never miss a showstopper like this again.

Overview of Recipe Content

These bars are a modern tiramisu twist, baked and layered into neat, sliceable squares. They’re perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or when you want a dessert that feels truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, fudgy espresso brownie base
• Classic tiramisu flavors with mascarpone cream
• Perfect make-ahead dessert
• No complicated decorating
• Coffee-lover approved

What It Tastes Like

Rich chocolate and espresso hit first, followed by soft, coffee-soaked ladyfingers and a creamy, lightly sweet mascarpone layer. Every bite melts together—bold, smooth, and luxurious.

When to Make It

This is a year-round dessert, but it truly shines for holidays, celebrations, or anytime coffee is involved (which, in my kitchen, is always).

Ingredients

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Espresso Brownie Bottom

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter
• 6 oz (170g) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 tablespoon espresso powder
• 1 ¼ cups (250g) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• ½ cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (65g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled

Coffee-Soaked Ladyfingers

• 18–20 ladyfinger cookies
• 1 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
• 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)

Mascarpone Cream Layer

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
• 8 oz (225g) mascarpone cheese, cold
• ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping

• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

Tools You’ll Need

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Electric mixer
• Parchment paper

Substitutions & Additions

• Swap ladyfingers for sponge cake slices
• Use decaf espresso powder if needed
• Add chocolate shavings on top
• A splash of rum or Marsala works beautifully

How to Make Espresso Brownie Tiramisu Bars

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Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate & Butter

In a heatproof bowl, melt butter, chocolate, and espresso powder together until smooth.

Step 3: Make the Brownie Batter

Whisk in sugar, eggs, vanilla, and oil. Stir in cocoa powder, salt, and flour until just combined.

Step 4: Bake the Brownie Base

Pour batter into pan and bake for 22–25 minutes. The center should be set but fudgy. Cool completely.

Step 5: Soak the Ladyfingers

Dip ladyfingers quickly into espresso (don’t soak too long!) and layer over cooled brownie.

Step 6: Make the Mascarpone Cream

Whip heavy cream to soft peaks. In another bowl, beat mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Gently fold together.

Step 7: Assemble

Spread mascarpone cream evenly over ladyfingers. Chill at least 4 hours.

Step 8: Finish

Dust generously with cocoa powder before slicing.

What to Serve with Espresso Brownie Tiramisu Bars

• Espresso or cappuccino
• Amaretto or coffee liqueur
• Fresh berries for contrast

More coffee-loving favorites you’ll adore:

• https://poulef.com/espresso-brownies/
• https://poulef.com/coffee-walnut-cake/

Tips for Making It Perfect

• Don’t overbake the brownie layer
• Use cold mascarpone for stability
• Chill fully before slicing
• Use a sharp, warm knife
• Dust cocoa just before serving

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Up to 4 days, covered
• Freezer: Freeze without cocoa topping up to 1 month
• Serve: Best chilled

General Information

Tiramisu traditionally means “pick me up,” and this brownie version absolutely lives up to the name. Combining Italian mascarpone with an American-style espresso brownie creates a dessert that bridges two beloved traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Yes—this dessert is best made the day before.

Can I skip the alcohol?
Absolutely, it’s optional.

Is mascarpone required?
Yes, for authentic flavor and texture.

Can I use instant coffee?
Espresso powder gives the best depth, but strong instant coffee works.

Do these slice cleanly?
Yes, once fully chilled.

Conclusion

These Espresso Brownie Tiramisu Bars are rich, bold, creamy, and utterly unforgettable. If you love coffee desserts with personality, this one deserves a permanent place in your recipe box.

Interactive Elements

Leave a review if you try them—it helps more than you know.
Share your slices on Pinterest and tag me here:
https://www.pinterest.com/poulefrecipe/

Nutritional Information (Per Bar – Approximate)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420
Fat	28g
Saturated Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	38g
Sugar	26g
Protein	6g
Sodium	140mg

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