If you’re craving a dessert that’s both decadent and surprisingly simple to put together, you’ve got to try this Easy Coffee Tiramisu Recipe. I absolutely love how effortlessly this comes together with just a handful of ingredients, yet the flavors are so rich and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a weekend treat or a special gathering, this tiramisu will quickly become your go-to dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity: You only need a few ingredients and minimal effort to get full-on tiramisu flavor.
- Crowd Pleaser: My family goes crazy for this dessert whenever I bring it out — it’s a guaranteed hit.
- Quick Assembly: From start to finish, it takes just about 10 minutes to prep (plus chill time!).
- Authentic Taste: Despite being easy, the espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone combo nails that classic tiramisu vibe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together harmoniously to give you that perfect balance of creamy sweetness and bold coffee flavor. Grab fresh mascarpone and good-quality espresso – that makes a world of difference.
- Heavy whipping cream: The magic behind that luscious, fluffy mascarpone filling.
- Mascarpone cheese: A must for that authentic creamy texture – make sure it’s room temperature for easy folding.
- Granulated sugar: Balances the bitterness of coffee with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to your cream mixture.
- Cold espresso: Brew it fresh, strong, and chilled for soaking those ladyfingers.
- Coffee flavored liqueur (optional): I love adding Kahlua for an extra kick, but you can skip it or substitute with any other coffee liqueur.
- Ladyfingers: Look for Savoiardi brand in your grocery’s cookie aisle or online – they hold up beautifully without getting mushy.
- Cocoa powder: For dusting that final gorgeous, bittersweet top layer.
Variations
I like to keep this Easy Coffee Tiramisu Recipe pretty classic, but feel free to personalize it – I’ve experimented and found some fun twists that still hit the spot.
- Non-alcoholic version: Skip the coffee liqueur and just stick with espresso – just as delicious and kid-friendly.
- Mocha tiramisu: Add a touch of cocoa powder to the mascarpone mixture for a subtle chocolate flavor.
- Berry twist: Layer fresh raspberries between the mascarpone for a fruity punch that contrasts perfectly with the coffee.
- Individual servings: Make mini cups or jars instead of a big pan – great for parties or gifts.
How to Make Easy Coffee Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Whip That Cream to Perfection
Start by adding your heavy whipping cream into a mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer on medium speed and slowly add in the sugar and vanilla extract as it begins to thicken. You want to beat it until you see stiff peaks forming – this means when you pull out the beaters, the cream should hold its shape firmly without collapsing. Next, gently fold in the room-temperature mascarpone cheese. Be careful not to overmix — a few folds to blend everything well are enough. This creamy mixture is the heart of your tiramisu!
Step 2: Prepare the Coffee Dip
Pour your cold espresso into a shallow bowl. If you’re using coffee-flavored liqueur, mix it in now. This combo adds the perfect punch and depth to the ladyfingers. Be sure the espresso is completely cooled – dipping ladyfingers in hot coffee can cause them to soak up too much and get soggy.
Step 3: Dip and Layer Ladyfingers
Quickly dip each ladyfinger on both sides in the espresso mixture – don’t let them soak, or they’ll become mushy! Lay them carefully in a single layer in an 8×8-inch pan or something similar in size. This foundation builds your tiramisu layers, so take a little extra care to arrange them neatly.
Step 4: Add the Cream Layers and Repeat
Spoon and smooth half of your mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfinger layer. Then, repeat the dipping and layering with another batch of soaked ladyfingers on top of the cream layer. Finish it off by spreading the remaining mascarpone mixture evenly over the top. This layering gives tiramisu its irresistible creamy and spongy texture.
Step 5: Dust and Chill
Generously sift cocoa powder over your tiramisu’s surface using a fine mesh strainer—that light dusting adds a beautiful finish and a hint of bitterness that balances the sweetness. Now, pop your dessert into the fridge for at least 3 to 4 hours, but overnight is ideal. This chilling time lets the flavors meld and the layers set just right.
Pro Tips for Making Easy Coffee Tiramisu Recipe
- Room Temperature Mascarpone: This makes folding into the whipped cream smooth and prevents lumps.
- Quick Dip Ladyfingers: A quick touch in coffee keeps them moist but intact, avoiding a soggy mess.
- Chill Time is Key: I learned that overnight refrigeration makes the flavors marry best and texture perfect.
- Use a Fine Sifter: Dust your cocoa powder through a fine mesh for an even, beautiful cocoa layer without clumps.
How to Serve Easy Coffee Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
I usually keep it classic with just a dusting of cocoa powder on top, but for a fun twist, shaved dark chocolate or a few espresso beans scattered on top add a lovely texture and extra coffee vibe. Fresh mint leaves can also brighten things up visually if you want a pop of color.
Side Dishes
This tiramisu is a dessert star on its own, but if you want to pair it, I love serving it with a simple fruit salad or biscotti on the side. A strong espresso or even a small glass of dessert wine complements the coffee flavors brilliantly.
Creative Ways to Present
Once, I made this Easy Coffee Tiramisu Recipe in individual mason jars for a brunch party, and they were a huge hit — so convenient and adorable. You can also layer it in elegant glasses for a visually stunning dessert that’s perfect for date nights or celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), cover your tiramisu tightly and keep it refrigerated. It stays fresh and delicious for about 2 to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving if the top looks a little dry.
Freezing
I’ve tried freezing this recipe a couple of times when I needed to prep ahead—wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn. It thaws surprisingly well overnight in the fridge, although the texture softens slightly and the cocoa topping may lose some of its punch.
Reheating
Tiramisu is best enjoyed chilled, so I recommend eating leftovers straight from the fridge. If you prefer it slightly less cold, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving—reheating is not advised since it can ruin the creamy texture.
FAQs
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Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of espresso?
Yes, you can substitute brewed coffee but make sure it’s strong and chilled to mimic espresso’s intensity. Using a stronger coffee helps maintain that bold flavor contrast that tiramisu is known for.
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Do I have to use mascarpone cheese?
Mascarpone is traditional for tiramisu and gives it its signature creamy texture. You can substitute with cream cheese mixed with a little heavy cream, but it won’t be quite the same. I’ve found mascarpone really worth the splurge for authenticity and smoothness.
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How long should I soak the ladyfingers?
Just a quick dip (1-2 seconds per side) is enough to soak them without turning mushy. Ladyfingers absorb liquid fast, so brief dipping gives you the perfect moist-but-firm base.
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this tiramisu tastes better the next day since the flavors have time to meld. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or up to 24 hours before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Coffee Tiramisu Recipe is one of those desserts I find myself coming back to time and again. It has all the classic flair of tiramisu but without the fuss, so whether you’re new to this dessert or a longtime lover, it’s a fantastic recipe to have tucked away. I hope you’ll enjoy making and sharing it just as much as I do — it’s like a little Italian café moment in your very own kitchen!
Print
Easy Coffee Tiramisu Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A classic and creamy Italian dessert featuring layers of coffee-soaked lady fingers and a luscious mascarpone cream, dusted with cocoa powder. This easy-to-make tiramisu combines rich espresso and coffee liqueur with whipped cream and mascarpone for a decadent treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Mascarpone Cream
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream (360 ml)
- 8 ounce container mascarpone cheese, room temperature (225 g)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67 g)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
Soaking Mixture
- 1 1/2 cups cold espresso, prepared (360 ml)
- 3 Tablespoons coffee flavored liqueur (optional, Kahlua or DaVinci brands) (45 ml)
Other Ingredients
- 1 package Lady Fingers (Savoiardi brand recommended)
- Cocoa powder for dusting the top
Instructions
- Prepare the Mascarpone Cream: Add the heavy whipping cream to a mixing bowl and beat on medium speed using electric mixers or a stand mixer. Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the mascarpone cheese until the mixture is smooth and combined. Set aside.
- Dip the Lady Fingers: Pour cold espresso and coffee liqueur into a shallow bowl. Quickly dip each lady finger on both sides into the coffee mixture without soaking them, just enough to moisten them.
- Assemble the First Layer: Lay a single layer of the dipped lady fingers at the bottom of an 8×8 inch (or similar size) pan.
- Add Mascarpone Cream: Spread half of the prepared mascarpone cream evenly over the lady fingers layer.
- Second Layer: Repeat by dipping more lady fingers and placing another layer on top of the cream. Then, smooth the remaining mascarpone cream over the second layer.
- Finish and Chill: Generously dust cocoa powder over the top using a fine mesh strainer for an even layer. Refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 3 to 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
Notes
- This tiramisu is creamy, delicious, and incredibly easy to make with few ingredients.
- Do not soak the lady fingers too long in the coffee mixture to keep the dessert from becoming soggy.
- Using fresh cold espresso provides a robust coffee flavor but instant espresso mix can be substituted if needed.
- Refrigerating overnight enhances the flavors and texture.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the coffee liqueur and add a little extra espresso or coffee instead.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 297 kcal
- Sugar: 11 g
- Sodium: 77 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 88 mg
