Decadent Mocha Tiramisu Brownie Trifle: Easy Layered Dessert Recipe

Posted on August 6, 2025

Mocha Tiramisu Brownie Trifle - featured image

There’s something magical about a dessert that combines rich chocolate, coffee, and creamy layers. The first time I made this Decadent Mocha Tiramisu Brownie Trifle, I was looking for a way to bring together my love for classic tiramisu with my obsession for fudgy brownies. Let me tell you, this layered dessert is a game changer! Imagine biting into luscious layers of brownie, creamy mascarpone, and a hint of espresso—it’s like a cozy coffee shop experience right at home!

I whipped this up for a family gathering, and it was gone in minutes! The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make. You can assemble it ahead of time, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Plus, every bite feels indulgent, yet it’s simple enough for even novice bakers to tackle. Trust me—once you try this trifle, it might just become your go-to dessert for every occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s be real: there are many desserts out there, but this Decadent Mocha Tiramisu Brownie Trifle stands out for several reasons. As someone who has tested this recipe numerous times, I can assure you it’s a winner. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Quick & Easy: This dessert can be assembled in about 30 minutes—perfect for last-minute gatherings!
Simple Ingredients: You won’t need to hunt for fancy ingredients; you probably have most of them in your kitchen already.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday dinner, or a cozy movie night, this trifle fits right in.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a dessert that gets rave reviews from both kids and adults alike. Who doesn’t love brownies and coffee?
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of textures and flavors in this dessert is simply next-level. It’s comfort food at its finest!

This isn’t just another dessert; it’s a delightful experience that will make you close your eyes and savor every layer. The creamy mascarpone paired with the rich brownie and espresso makes for a symphony of flavors. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress guests without breaking a sweat. You can layer it up in a pretty glass dish, and voilà—instant wow factor!

Ingredients Needed

This Decadent Mocha Tiramisu Brownie Trifle uses simple, flavorful ingredients that come together to create something spectacular. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Brownies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Coffee Mixture:
- 1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
For the Mascarpone Layer:
- 16 oz mascarpone cheese, at room temperature
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Chocolate shavings
- Cocoa powder for dusting
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Make sure to use high-quality cocoa powder for the brownies; it really makes a difference in flavor! And if you can, use fresh espresso for that authentic coffee taste. You can also experiment with flavored liqueurs to add a little twist to the coffee mixture.

Equipment Needed

For this trifle, you won’t need any specialized equipment, just some essentials from your kitchen:

9×13-inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk or electric mixer
Trifle dish or individual serving glasses
Spatula for spreading
Measuring cups and spoons

Feel free to use any mixing method you prefer! I often use a handheld mixer for the mascarpone layer, but a whisk works just as well if you’re up for the workout!

Preparation Method

Preheat your oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
Make the brownie batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix well until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla, then beat until fully combined.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Bake the brownies: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let it cool completely in the pan.
Prepare the coffee mixture: In a small bowl, mix cooled espresso and coffee liqueur (if using). Set aside.
Make the mascarpone layer: In another bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the trifle: Cut the cooled brownies into squares. In your trifle dish or glasses, layer brownie pieces, drizzle with coffee mixture, and add a layer of mascarpone. Repeat layers until you reach the top, finishing with the mascarpone.
Chill: Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Garnish and serve: Before serving, dust with cocoa powder and top with chocolate shavings and mint leaves, if desired.

As you layer, don’t be afraid to get creative! You can alternate the order or add extra layers if you want to make it even more indulgent. Just keep in mind that the more layers, the more delicious surprises in each bite!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to make your Decadent Mocha Tiramisu Brownie Trifle a huge success:

Don’t overbake the brownies: For that fudgy texture, you want to pull them out as soon as a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smooth mascarpone layer without lumps.
Taste as you go: Adjust the sweetness of your mascarpone layer by adding more powdered sugar if you prefer it sweeter.
Chill for best results: Allowing the trifle to chill for several hours or overnight really helps the flavors blend and intensify.
Layer with love: Take your time while assembling. Neat layers lead to beautiful presentation!

Honestly, I’ve made my fair share of trifles, and sometimes the mascarpone layer can be tricky. If it seems too thick, you can fold in a bit more heavy cream to loosen it up. And remember, practice makes perfect!

Variations & Adaptations

If you want to mix things up a bit, here are some fun variations for your Decadent Mocha Tiramisu Brownie Trifle:

Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for an extra crunch between layers.
Different Flavors: Swap the espresso for flavored coffee, like hazelnut or vanilla, for a unique twist.
Fruit Layer: Add a layer of sliced strawberries or raspberries for a fruity contrast to the chocolate and coffee.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free brownie mix or substitute the flour with almond flour.

Feel free to get creative! This trifle is very forgiving, and you can adjust it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. One time, I made it with orange-flavored coffee, and it was a delightful surprise!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Decadent Mocha Tiramisu Brownie Trifle, here are some ideas:

Serve chilled, straight from the fridge, to keep it refreshing.
Pair it with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sumptuous dessert experience.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious!
To reheat brownies, place them in the microwave for a few seconds before adding to the trifle layers.

Just a note: as the trifle sits, the brownies absorb some of the coffee mixture, so it may get softer over time—but it’s all part of the charm!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This Decadent Mocha Tiramisu Brownie Trifle is a delightful treat that, while indulgent, offers some benefits too! Here’s a quick breakdown:

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 5g per serving (thanks to the mascarpone!)
Contains antioxidants from cocoa and coffee, providing some health benefits.
Can be made gluten-free with simple substitutions.

Of course, it’s a dessert, so moderation is key! But the combination of flavors and textures makes every bite worth it. Plus, the joy of sharing this treat is a health benefit in itself!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dessert that wows at every gathering, this Decadent Mocha Tiramisu Brownie Trifle is calling your name! The layers of rich brownie, creamy mascarpone, and a hint of coffee create a dessert that’s not just good, but unforgettable. Customize it to your liking and make it your own. And don’t forget to share your creations with me—I love hearing how you’ve made this recipe special! So grab your ingredients and get ready to impress your friends and family with this stunning dessert!

Got questions or your own variations? Drop a comment below, and let’s chat! Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I make the brownies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the brownies a day in advance and store them at room temperature until you’re ready to assemble the trifle.

Is there a substitute for mascarpone cheese?

You can use cream cheese mixed with a little heavy cream for a similar texture, though it may alter the flavor slightly.

How long can the trifle be refrigerated?

The trifle can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator, but it’s best enjoyed within the first two days for optimal texture and flavor.

Can I freeze the trifle?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the mascarpone layer may change when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding a splash of your favorite liqueur to the coffee mixture or mixing in chocolate chips to the brownie layer for added flavor!

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