Get ready to indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Brownie Tiramisu Cheesecake with Malted Whipped Cream Recipe. Imagine the richness of fudgy brownies forming a decadent base, layered with creamy mascarpone cheesecake that melts in your mouth, and topped with coffee-soaked sponge fingers to give a perfect tiramisu vibe. All crowned by a luxuriously smooth malted whipped cream that elevates every bite. This dessert is a celebration of textures and flavors, ideal for impressing guests or simply treating yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you dive in, let’s take a moment to appreciate how straightforward and essential these ingredients are. Each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that irresistible look you’ll want to snap a photo of before diving in.
- 80 g unsalted butter: For a rich and tender brownie base, butter adds moistness and depth.
- 140 g good-quality dark chocolate: Using high-quality chocolate ensures your brownies have that intense, smooth cocoa flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Eggs bind the brownie batter and give structure to the cheesecake layers.
- 100 g caster sugar: This fine sugar dissolves easily, providing sweetness without graininess.
- 100 g soft light brown sugar: Adds caramel notes and chewiness, giving the brownies extra character.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A subtle, comforting aroma that enhances the whole dessert.
- 70 g plain flour: The gluten in flour gives structure but just enough to keep the brownie tender.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and highlights chocolate flavors.
- 480 ml double cream (cold): Essential for whipping to create the cheesecake’s silky texture.
- 450 g mascarpone (room temp): Rich, creamy Italian cheese that’s the star of the tiramisu-cheesecake hybrid.
- 110 g icing sugar (sieved): Provides sweetness and helps stabilize the cheesecake filling.
- 150 ml cooled coffee: Adds authentic tiramisu flavor and gently soaks the sponge fingers.
- 8-10 sponge fingers: These soft biscuits absorb coffee beautifully and create the tiramisu layer.
- 300 ml double cream: For whipping into that spectacular malted whipped cream that finishes the dessert.
- Cocoa powder: A final dusting to enhance richness and create a classic tiramisu appearance.
How to Make Brownie Tiramisu Cheesecake with Malted Whipped Cream Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
Start by gently melting the butter and dark chocolate together until smooth and glossy—this will form the rich heart of your brownie base. Whisk the eggs with caster and brown sugar plus vanilla extract until light and fluffy to ensure an airy texture. Carefully fold the melted chocolate mixture into the eggs, and then sift in the flour and salt. Mix just until combined to keep the brownies tender. Pour the batter into a greased baking tin and bake until the edges are set but still soft in the center. This fudgy base is what makes this cheesecake truly unforgettable.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
While the brownie base cools, whip the cold double cream to soft peaks—this adds a light, airy contrast to the dense base. In another bowl, beat the mascarpone with vanilla extract and sieved icing sugar until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, carefully maintaining that fluffy texture. This cheesecake layer is rich yet delicate, a perfect foil to the chocolatey brownie beneath.
Step 3: Assemble the Tiramisu Layer
Quickly dunk the sponge fingers in the cooled coffee — be careful not to soak them too long or they will become soggy. Layer the coffee-soaked sponges evenly over your cooled brownie base, creating a soft, aromatic tiramisu layer. Spread the mascarpone cheesecake filling generously on top, smoothing the surface perfectly for the final touch.
Step 4: Prepare the Malted Whipped Cream
Whip the remaining double cream until it starts to thicken. For that special malted flavor, gently fold in malt powder or malted milk powder if you have it—a surprising addition that adds a subtle sweetness and wonderful depth. Spread this malted whipped cream over the cheesecake, creating soft peaks or artistic folds that invite indulgence. Finally, dust with cocoa powder for that classic tiramisu look.
How to Serve Brownie Tiramisu Cheesecake with Malted Whipped Cream Recipe
Garnishes
A little extra flair never hurts. Try topping with dark chocolate shavings or a sprinkling of crushed malted milk balls for texture. Fresh raspberries also add a lovely tart contrast and a pop of color that looks as delightful as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines on its own but pairing it with a small cup of espresso amplifies the tiramisu elements wonderfully. If you prefer something lighter, a simple bowl of mixed berries can balance the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve slices on vintage plates for a nostalgic feel or layer the dessert in clear glasses or jars for individual portions that look elegant and inviting. For an impressive twist, top each portion with a drizzle of caramel or espresso syrup to personalize the experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen with time as the coffee and malt meld together, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
Freezing this dessert is possible but not ideal because the whipped cream topping may lose some texture and become watery upon thawing. If you must freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Reheating is not recommended for this dessert, as it is best enjoyed chilled to savor the creamy layers and the brownie’s dense crumb. If you want warm brownie bites, consider making extra brownie base separately to heat alongside your portions.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought brownie base?
Absolutely! While homemade brownies add a special touch, good-quality store-bought brownies can save time and still taste fantastic. Just ensure they’re fresh and not overly dry.
What kind of coffee is best for soaking the sponge fingers?
A strong brewed espresso or robust black coffee works best to infuse the tiramisu layer with authentic flavor. You can also add a splash of coffee liqueur for an adult twist.
How do I make the malted whipped cream if I don’t have malt powder?
If malt powder is unavailable, you can fold in a teaspoon of malted milk powder from the baking aisle or skip it entirely—the whipped cream will still be deliciously rich and complement the cheesecake beautifully.
Can I prepare this dessert a day ahead?
Yes! In fact, it’s recommended to build the dessert a day ahead to allow the flavors to develop and the layers to set perfectly in the fridge, making the slice cleaner and easier to serve.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Definitely. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are simple but yield a complex, impressive dessert. It’s a great recipe to boost your confidence and wow your loved ones.
Final Thoughts
This Brownie Tiramisu Cheesecake with Malted Whipped Cream Recipe truly combines the best of three beloved desserts into one unforgettable treat. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a serious sweet craving, each bite will make you smile and want to make it again. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try and share the magic with friends and family!
PrintBrownie Tiramisu Cheesecake with Malted Whipped Cream Recipe
This decadent Brownie Tiramisu Cheesecake combines a rich, fudgy brownie base with a creamy mascarpone cheesecake layer, topped with coffee-soaked sponge fingers evocative of traditional tiramisu and finished with a luscious malted whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder. Perfect for dessert lovers seeking a unique twist on classic Italian and chocolate flavors.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes including chilling
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 80 g unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing
- 140 g good-quality dark chocolate, roughly chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 100 g caster sugar
- 100 g soft light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 70 g plain flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Layer
- 480 ml double cream, cold from the fridge
- 450 g mascarpone, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 110 g icing sugar, sieved
Tiramisu Layer
- 150 ml cooled coffee
- 8–10 sponge fingers (enough to cover the cake in a single layer)
Cream Topping
- 300 ml double cream
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare Brownie Base: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a suitable cake pan with butter. Melt the unsalted butter and dark chocolate together over a bain-marie or gently in the microwave, stirring until smooth. In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, caster sugar, and brown sugar until pale and slightly fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract, then fold in the melted chocolate and butter mixture. Sift in the plain flour and salt, folding gently until combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top, and bake for approximately 18-20 minutes until set but still fudgy in the center.
- Make Cheesecake Layer: While the brownie base cools, whip the cold double cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, beat the mascarpone with vanilla extract and sieved icing sugar until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture to create a light, creamy texture. Chill until ready to assemble.
- Assemble Tiramisu Layer: Pour the cooled coffee into a shallow dish and quickly dip each sponge finger, just enough to soak but not soggy. Arrange the coffee-soaked sponge fingers in a single layer over the cooled brownie base, pressing gently to cover fully.
- Add Cheesecake Layer: Spoon the mascarpone cream mixture evenly over the tiramisu sponge finger layer, smoothing the top with a spatula. Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours or until set to allow the layers to meld beautifully.
- Prepare Cream Topping: Whip the remaining 300 ml double cream to stiff peaks. For the malted flavor, you may gently fold in malt powder or malted milk powder if desired. Spread or pipe the malted whipped cream on top of the set cheesecake layer finely.
- Final Touch: Just before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder for a classic tiramisu finish. Slice and serve chilled for best results.
Notes
- Ensure the brownie base is not overbaked; it should remain fudgy to complement the creamy layers.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate and real mascarpone for best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to add a splash of coffee liqueur or rum to the coffee soak for an adult twist.
- Preparing the dessert a day ahead allows flavors to blend and improves texture.
- If malt powder is unavailable, you can omit it or substitute with a teaspoon of vanilla extract in the whipped cream.