Tiramisu Caramel Brownies Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate mashup dessert, Tiramisu Caramel Brownies are about to become your new obsession. Imagine classic fudgy brownies, a bold hit of espresso and coffee liqueur, dreamy clouds of mascarpone, and gooey caramel all swirling together into pure bliss. Each bite delivers the rich intensity of chocolate, the aromatic allure of tiramisu, and an irresistible caramel kiss. If you love decadent, crowd-pleasing treats with just a hint of sophistication, these brownies are about to steal your heart (and your tastebuds)!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients lie at the heart of these Tiramisu Caramel Brownies, but each has a unique job to play. You’ll only need a handful of essentials, and every one brings delicious flavor, moisture, or that sought-after creamy texture. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why!

• Brownie mix: Your favorite boxed mix provides a quick, chocolatey foundation for these indulgent bars.
• Eggs: They add richness and help the brownies set up to that perfect fudgy consistency.
• Vegetable oil: Provides extra moisture to keep the brownies soft and tender.
• Water: Thins the batter just enough for easy spreading.
• Brewed espresso (cooled): Adds bold coffee notes that perfectly echo classic tiramisu.
• Coffee liqueur (like Kahlua): Deepens the flavor and brings a distinct tiramisu vibe.
• Mascarpone cheese: The heart of tiramisu! This luxurious cheese gives a creamy, tangy layer.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone and makes it extra smooth.
• Caramel sauce: Adds gooey richness that takes these brownies totally over the top.
• Cocoa powder (for dusting): A finishing touch that ties the brownies back to their tiramisu roots.

How to Make Tiramisu Caramel Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prep a 9×9-inch baking pan by greasing and flouring it well—this step keeps your Tiramisu Caramel Brownies from sticking and makes for clean, easy slices later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brownie mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Stir until everything is combined and no lumps remain, so your brownies bake up perfectly luscious and smooth.

Step 3: Layer the Brownies

Pour half the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. In a separate small bowl, mix the cooled espresso and coffee liqueur. Gently drizzle half this coffee mixture over the brownie layer, letting the liquid soak in evenly across the surface.

Step 4: Make the Mascarpone Layer

In a fresh bowl, beat together the mascarpone cheese and powdered sugar until smooth, creamy, and lump-free. Carefully dollop and spread this luscious mascarpone over your espresso-soaked brownie layer, building that signature tiramisu flavor right into your brownies.

Step 5: Add Caramel and Remaining Layers

Drizzle caramel sauce generously all over the mascarpone layer (as much or as little as your caramel-loving heart desires!). Follow up with the remaining brownie batter spread gently on top. Finally, drizzle on the rest of the espresso mixture, ensuring every bite gets that coffee kick.

Step 6: Swirl and Bake

Time for a little artistry! Use a butter knife or toothpick to gently swirl the layers together, creating pretty marbled patterns and mixing those flavors ever so slightly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes; when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready to go.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Place the pan on a wire rack and let your Tiramisu Caramel Brownies cool completely so they set up for flawless slicing. Once cool, dust the top with cocoa powder to echo the finishing touch of a classic tiramisu. Slice, serve, and watch them disappear!

How to Serve Tiramisu Caramel Brownies

Garnishes

Finish your brownies with a generous dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder. For an extra flourish, add chocolate curls, a drizzle of caramel, or even a single espresso bean to each square. These small touches add drama and hint at the flavors inside.

Side Dishes

Tiramisu Caramel Brownies are pretty unforgettable all on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dollop of mascarpone. Serve with a cup of strong espresso or an after-dinner coffee for a match made in dessert heaven.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to take things up a notch? Cut your brownies into bite-size squares, stack them on a beautiful platter, and dust lightly with cocoa powder and edible gold flakes. Or, serve individually on small plates with an extra swirl of caramel and a mini fork for an elegant touch at special occasions or parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have a few Tiramisu Caramel Brownies left (if you’re lucky)? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will become even more pronounced after a day or two, making them a stunning make-ahead option for entertaining or late-night treats.

Freezing

Tiramisu Caramel Brownies freeze surprisingly well! Once cooled, slice and wrap each brownie snugly in plastic wrap, then stash in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their rich flavor and texture for up to three months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

For that fresh-baked taste, gently warm individual brownies in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This brings back the fudgy warmth and melts the caramel slightly, making them taste like you just pulled them from the oven.

FAQs

Can I make Tiramisu Caramel Brownies without alcohol?

Absolutely! You can simply substitute extra brewed espresso or strong coffee for the coffee liqueur. The brownies will still have that decadent tiramisu flavor, minus the alcohol.

What if I can’t find mascarpone cheese?

If mascarpone isn’t available near you, try mixing equal parts cream cheese and heavy cream until smooth. While not exactly the same, it makes a tasty and creamy substitute.

Do I have to use a boxed brownie mix?

Nope! If you prefer homemade brownies, feel free to use your favorite from-scratch recipe as the base for these Tiramisu Caramel Brownies. Just keep the batter amount about the same as a standard box mix.

Can I double this recipe for a bigger crowd?

Yes! Simply double everything and use a 9×13-inch pan. Keep an eye on baking time; they may need an extra five minutes—check for doneness with a toothpick in the center.

Will the coffee flavor be too strong?

The espresso and liqueur bring a deep, fragrant coffee note, but the brownies remain sweet, chocolatey, and perfectly balanced. If you’re worried, you can reduce the amount of espresso for a milder taste.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a showstopping dessert that combines two iconic favorites, you’re absolutely going to love these Tiramisu Caramel Brownies. Each bite is pure magic—bold, gooey, creamy, and unforgettable. Gather your ingredients, invite some friends, and bake up a batch. Dessert just got a little more fabulous!