Delicious Tiramisu Brownies (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Brownie Base

01 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
06 - 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

→ For the Tiramisu Layer

10 - 1 cup mascarpone cheese
11 - 1 cup heavy cream
12 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar
13 - 2 tablespoons espresso or strong coffee, cooled
14 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
15 - Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth and well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips if using. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, espresso (or coffee), and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for quicker results. Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the tiramisu layer evenly over the brownie base. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
04 - Refrigerate the brownies for at least 2 hours, or until the tiramisu layer is firm and set. This step allows the flavors to meld together.
05 - Before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu layer with unsweetened cocoa powder. Slice into squares and enjoy!

# Notes:

01 - For a stronger coffee flavor, you can drizzle some additional espresso over the brownie base before adding the tiramisu layer.
02 - If you prefer a lighter tiramisu layer, you can fold in whipped cream to make it airier.
03 - These brownies should be stored in the fridge, as the tiramisu layer is best served chilled.
04 - For a more traditional flavor, you can substitute mascarpone with ricotta cheese, although mascarpone provides a richer texture.