Tiramisu Dessert Bars With Espresso Blondie Base
These irresistible tiramisu dessert bars feature a chewy brown sugar espresso blondie base topped with luscious mascarpone cream and a dusting of cocoa. A handheld twist on a beloved Italian classic.
Equipment
- 8x8 or 9x9-inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Offset spatula or spoon
- Fine-mesh sieve
Ingredients
For the Espresso Blondie Base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 ½ cups light brown sugar packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Mascarpone Cream Topping:
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese room temperature
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- To Finish:
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
Prepare the Pan and Preheat
- Line pan with parchment and preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Tip: Use metal clips to secure the parchment.
Make the Blondie Batter
- Whisk melted butter and brown sugar until glossy. Add eggs, espresso powder, and vanilla. Mix well.
Add Dry Ingredients
- Sift in flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold until just combined.
- Tip: Avoid overmixing for soft, chewy bars.
Bake
- Spread into pan and bake 22–25 minutes. Edges should be golden; toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
Cool
- Cool completely in the pan. Refrigerate to speed up.
- Tip: A cool base ensures the topping sets properly.
Whip the Cream Layer
- Beat mascarpone, cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until thick but soft.
- Tip: Don’t overwhip — soft peaks are ideal.
Assemble
- Spread topping over blondie. Smooth the surface. Chill 1–2 hours or overnight.
Finish
- Dust with cocoa powder just before slicing into bars.
- Tip: Wipe knife clean between cuts for sharp layers.
Notes
Store chilled in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Can be frozen for up to 1 month.
For extra flair, add a chocolate-covered espresso bean on top before serving.
Best enjoyed with coffee, conversation, or quiet indulgence.