Brown Butter Tiramisu Brownies
Indulge in the rich flavors of Brown Butter Tiramisu Brownies, where fudgy chocolate brownie layers meet espresso-soaked ladyfingers. Topped with a luscious cream cheese layer and a dusting of cocoa powder, these brownies combine the best of tiramisu and classic brownies into one decadent dessert.
If you try out this recipe, I’d love to see it! Leave a comment with a star rating below and tag @wellmadebykiley on Instagram and hashtag it #wellmadebykiley
Ingredients You Need:
Full ingredients and recipe are in the recipe card below. Read through this section for all the ingredients substitution and baking tips!
Salted butter
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
Dark chocolate chips/chunks
Olive oil
Eggs
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Chocolate chips of choice
Ladyfingers
Fresh brewed coffee or espresso
Cream cheese
Heavy whipping cream
Powdered sugar
Why You’ll Love Brown Butter Tiramisu Brownies:
Rich Brown Butter Flavor: The nutty, caramelized flavor of brown butter elevates these brownies, adding depth and richness that perfectly complements the chocolate and espresso.
Fudgy Brownie Texture: These brownies are ultra-fudgy, with a dense, chewy texture that makes every bite indulgent and satisfying.
Tiramisu-Inspired Layers: The combination of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy topping brings the classic flavors of tiramisu to a decadent brownie form, blending two beloved desserts into one.
Cream Cheese Topping: The smooth, tangy cream cheese layer adds a delightful contrast to the rich brownie, balancing sweetness with a creamy finish.
Perfect Espresso Kick: The espresso-soaked ladyfingers infuse the brownies with a bold coffee flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate, making these brownies a treat for coffee lovers.
Elegant Presentation: With a dusting of cocoa powder on top, these brownies not only taste amazing but also look impressive, making them perfect for special occasions or as a gift.
Decadent and Unique: Combining the best elements of tiramisu and brownies, these treats offer a unique dessert experience that’s both familiar and exciting.
Versatile Dessert: Serve these brownies as an indulgent dessert at dinner parties, as a luxurious treat with coffee, or simply enjoy them as a mid-day pick-me-up.
Easy to Make: Despite their gourmet appeal, these brownies are surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a few extra steps to create a dessert that’s sure to impress.
Crowd-Pleaser: The blend of chocolate, coffee, and cream cheese in these brownies makes them a hit with everyone, whether they’re tiramisu fans, brownie lovers, or both.
Tips for Making Brown Butter Tiramisu Brownies:
Brown the Butter Carefully: When browning the butter, keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. Heat the butter over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma. This step is crucial for adding rich flavor to your brownies.
Use High-Quality Chocolate: For the best fudgy texture and deep chocolate flavor, use high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate. This will enhance the overall richness of the brownies.
Soak the Ladyfingers in Espresso: To ensure the ladyfingers fully absorb the espresso flavor, dip them quickly in freshly brewed, strong espresso. Avoid soaking them for too long to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
Layer the Ladyfingers Evenly: Arrange the espresso-soaked ladyfingers in a single, even layer over the brownie batter. This helps distribute the coffee flavor throughout the brownies and creates a uniform texture.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients. This ensures a smooth, lump-free topping that spreads easily over the brownies.
Spread the Topping Gently: After baking the brownies and adding the cream cheese layer, spread it gently and evenly across the top. This will create a smooth surface for dusting with cocoa powder.
Dust with Cocoa Powder: For a classic tiramisu finish, dust the cream cheese topping with a light layer of cocoa powder just before serving. Use a fine-mesh sieve to get an even dusting.
Chill Before Serving: For best results, chill the brownies in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes the brownies easier to slice.
Cut with a Warm Knife: To get clean, sharp slices, use a warm knife to cut the brownies. Simply run the knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and make your cuts.
Serve at Room Temperature: While chilling helps set the brownies, they are best enjoyed at room temperature. Allow them to sit out for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors fully develop.
Customize the Coffee Flavor: If you want a stronger coffee flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the brownie batter. This will intensify the tiramisu experience.
Store Properly: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Don’t Overbake the Brownies: To achieve a fudgy texture, be careful not to overbake the brownies. They should be set around the edges but still slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.
How to Store Brown Butter Tiramisu Brownies:
Room Temperature:
Duration: Up to 1 day
Method: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to consume them within a day. This keeps them soft and fudgy while allowing the flavors to meld. Avoid exposure to heat or direct sunlight to prevent the cream cheese topping from melting.
Refrigeration:
Duration: Up to 3-4 days
Method: For longer storage, place the brownies in an airtight container and refrigerate. The cool temperature helps maintain the cream cheese topping and keeps the brownies fresh. Before serving, let the brownies sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to soften for optimal flavor and texture.
Freezing:
Duration: Up to 2 months
Method: Freeze the brownies by wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. This method prevents freezer burn and maintains the brownies' texture. To serve, thaw the brownies in the refrigerator overnight and bring them to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezing Uncut Brownies:
Method: If you prefer, freeze the entire batch of uncut brownies. Wrap the entire brownie slab in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then cut and serve as needed.
Storing Leftover Cream Cheese Topping:
Method: If you have extra cream cheese topping, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Use it to refresh the brownies just before serving or as a spread on other desserts.
Reheating:
Method: To enjoy the brownies warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious with the timing to avoid melting the cream cheese topping. Alternatively, you can let them come to room temperature naturally after refrigerating or freezing.
FAQs:
Q: How do I brown the butter without burning it?
A: To brown the butter, melt it over medium heat, stirring constantly. Watch closely as it begins to foam and the milk solids turn golden brown. Once you smell a nutty aroma and see amber-colored flecks, remove it from the heat immediately to prevent burning.
Q: Can I use store-bought ladyfingers?
A: Yes, store-bought ladyfingers work perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to briefly dip them in espresso to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
Q: What’s the best way to soak the ladyfingers in espresso?
A: Dip each ladyfinger quickly into the espresso, turning it over to coat both sides. Avoid soaking them for too long, as this can make them overly soft and affect the texture of the brownies.
Q: Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso?
A: Yes, you can substitute strong instant coffee for espresso. Simply dissolve 1-2 teaspoons of instant coffee in hot water to create a strong brew similar to espresso.
Q: How can I ensure the brownies are fudgy and not overbaked?
A: To achieve fudgy brownies, bake them until the edges are set but the center is still slightly soft. The brownies will continue to firm up as they cool. Test with a toothpick—it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached.
Q: What if my cream cheese topping is lumpy?
A: To avoid lumps, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients. If you still encounter lumps, beat the mixture with an electric mixer until smooth.
Q: Can I make the brownies ahead of time?
A: Yes, these brownies can be made a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and bring them to room temperature before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and improves the overall texture.
Q: How do I dust the cocoa powder evenly?
A: Use a fine-mesh sieve or sifter to dust the cocoa powder evenly over the cream cheese topping. Hold the sieve a few inches above the brownies and gently tap it to create a light, even layer of cocoa.
Q: Can I add alcohol to the espresso for a boozy twist?
A: Yes, you can add a tablespoon of coffee liqueur, rum, or Marsala wine to the espresso for a boozy flavor reminiscent of traditional tiramisu.
Q: How do I store leftover brownies?
A: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Q: Can I freeze the brownies with the cream cheese topping?
A: Yes, you can freeze the brownies with the cream cheese topping. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bring to room temperature before serving.
Q: How can I prevent the cream cheese topping from melting?
A: Allow the brownies to cool completely before spreading the cream cheese topping. Once topped, store the brownies in the refrigerator to keep the topping firm until ready to serve.
Check out my other brown butter recipes on Instagram:
Make sure to tag me @wellmadebykiley on Instagram and leave a review or comment if you make these brown butter tiramisu brownies. Happy baking!
