Tiramisu Blondies

01Method

1. 1

   Heat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on all sides for easy removal.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter together with both sugars, espresso powder, and salt until well blended. Incorporate the egg, vanilla extract, and coffee liqueur, whisking for about 1 minute until the mixture lightens slightly. Fold in the flour and baking soda until just incorporated. Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and smooth it into an even layer.

3. 3

   Bake until the edges begin pulling away from the sides of the pan, 20 to 25 minutes. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before frosting.

4. 4

   To make the frosting, beat the butter with an electric mixer until creamy. Mix in the confectioner's sugar, vanilla, and salt until fully smooth. Pour in the heavy cream and continue beating for 2 minutes. Add the mascarpone and mix on low speed until just combined.

5. 5

   Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars, then dust cocoa powder across the entire surface. Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up the frosting. Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang, slice into 16 pieces, and serve.