If you adore the classic flavors of tiramisu but want a show-stopping dessert that’s easier to slice and serve at parties, this Tiramisu Cake Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine layers of moist, delicate cake soaked in rich espresso syrup, filled with fluffy mascarpone cream, and topped with a dusting of cocoa that perfectly balances sweetness and bold coffee notes. It’s a delightful twist on the traditional Italian treat that feels both special and surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something indulgent, this cake will wow everyone at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients are easy to find yet essential to create that authentic tiramisu flavor and texture. Each item plays a crucial role, from the light cake layers that soak up coffee syrup beautifully to the creamy mascarpone filling that brings luxurious richness and balance.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation for tender cake layers that hold up well when soaked.
- Baking powder: Adds essential lift to make the cake soft and airy.
- Salt: Enhances the overall flavor, balancing sweetness and bitterness.
- Large eggs: Provide structure and help create a light texture in the cake.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and contributes to its pale, tender crumb.
- Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter for soft cake layers.
- Unsalted butter: Melted for smooth texture and subtle buttery flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to both the cake and the filling.
- Strong brewed espresso or coffee: The soul of the syrup that infuses each bite with authentic coffee flavor.
- Coffee liqueur (optional): Adds a boozy dimension that enhances the espresso notes.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone filling without leaving graininess.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to soft peaks; makes the filling light and velvety.
- Mascarpone cheese: The creamy Italian cheese that defines tiramisu’s signature luscious texture.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: For dusting, balances sweetness with a touch of bitterness.
- Chocolate shavings or curls (optional): Adds an elegant and delicious finish.
How to Make Tiramisu Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven and preparing two 8-inch round cake pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper – this ensures easy cake release later. In a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture is thick, pale, and fluffy, which usually takes about 5 to 6 minutes. This aeration is what creates a tender crumb and delicate texture befitting a tiramisu cake.
Gently fold in the flour mixture a little at a time, keeping the batter light and airy. In another bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract, then slowly fold this liquid into the batter until smooth and well incorporated.
Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake them for 20 to 22 minutes at 350°F (175°C), checking with a toothpick until it comes out clean. Allow these cakes to cool completely—you don’t want any residual heat when assembling, as it will affect the mascarpone cream.
Step 3: Make the Coffee Syrup
Whisk together the cooled brewed espresso or coffee, sugar, and optional coffee liqueur until the sugar dissolves completely. This syrup is what imparts that signature tiramisu coffee kick, so don’t be shy about using a robust espresso.
Step 4: Prepare the Mascarpone Cream Filling
Using a mixer, whisk the heavy whipping cream until it reaches soft peaks—this means it holds shape but is still smooth. In another bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until silky and smooth. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, keeping it fluffy and light for that melt-in-your-mouth effect.
Step 5: Assemble the Tiramisu Cake Recipe
Place one cake layer on your serving plate and soak it generously with the coffee syrup; this step is crucial for that moist, full-bodied coffee flavor. Spread half of the mascarpone cream filling evenly over the soaked cake, then top with the second cake layer. Repeat the syrup soak on that layer and finish with the remaining cream filling.
Use a spatula to smooth out the top and sides of the cake. To finish, dust the entire cake with unsweetened cocoa powder and optionally decorate with chocolate shavings or curls for a touch of elegance. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least two hours to let the flavors marry beautifully before slicing.
How to Serve Tiramisu Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your tiramisu cake, a fine dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder is indispensable; it adds a bittersweet contrast that balances the sweet cream beautifully. For a stunning finish, sprinkle chocolate shavings or curls on top—these little touches bring texture and a hint of luxury. Fresh mint leaves are lovely too if you want a pop of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines best on its own because of its rich flavors, but if you want to complement it, consider serving alongside fresh berries or a simple berry coulis, which adds vibrant acidity. A cup of espresso or cappuccino perfectly echoes the coffee notes of the cake while cleansing the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond slicing into traditional cake wedges, try serving this tiramisu cake recipe in jars or individual parfait glasses layered with crumbled cake and cream for a whimsical take. Alternatively, use cookie cutters to create individual bite-size portions for elegant parties or dessert buffets.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover tiramisu cake keeps beautifully in the refrigerator, tightly covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. The cake’s flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best texture and taste.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly softer after freezing, but it still preserves that classic tiramisu flavor wonderfully.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended as it can affect the mascarpone cream texture. Instead, plan ahead and serve it cold or allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes if it’s been refrigerated.
FAQs
Can I substitute ladyfingers or sponge cake for the cake layers?
Absolutely! Ladyfingers or sponge cake work as a great alternative if you want a more traditional tiramisu texture or have limited time. Just soak them thoroughly in the coffee syrup before layering with mascarpone cream.
Is coffee liqueur necessary in the recipe?
Not at all. Coffee liqueur adds depth and a lovely adult twist, but you can omit it for a non-alcoholic version without compromising the delicious coffee flavor.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, making the tiramisu cake a day ahead is highly recommended to let flavors meld perfectly. Storing it overnight also allows the cake layers to absorb the syrup fully and become wonderfully moist.
How do I prevent the mascarpone cream from curdling?
Use mascarpone at room temperature and fold the whipped cream gently into the mixture carefully to maintain its smoothness. Overbeating or mixing too vigorously can cause curdling.
What if I don’t have espresso? Can I use regular coffee?
While espresso gives the most intense flavor, strong brewed coffee works well as a substitute. Just be sure it’s robust and cooled before soaking the cake layers.
Final Thoughts
This Tiramisu Cake Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together the best of Italian dessert traditions with the ease and elegance of a layered cake. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, holiday, or just because, it promises to deliver swoon-worthy coffee-soaked layers and irresistibly creamy mascarpone filling. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this joyful baking adventure—you won’t regret sharing this sweet masterpiece with your friends and family.
Print
Tiramisu Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Tiramisu Cake Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring layers of light sponge cake soaked in espresso syrup and filled with a creamy mascarpone mixture. Finished with a dusting of cocoa powder and optional chocolate shavings, this elegant dessert is perfect for coffee lovers and special occasions alike.
Ingredients
Cake Layers:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warmed)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coffee Syrup:
- 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee (cooled)
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Mascarpone Cream Filling:
- 1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese (softened)
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Chocolate shavings or curls (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside for later use in the batter.
- Beat Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, using a hand mixer, beat the eggs and granulated sugar for 5 to 6 minutes until the mixture becomes thick, pale, and volume increases, creating a light and airy base for the cake.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, mix together the warmed whole milk, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. This mixture will add moisture and flavor to the cake batter.
- Fold Dry Ingredients Into Batter: Gently fold the dry flour mixture into the egg and sugar batter in batches, ensuring not to deflate the airiness. Then slowly fold in the milk, butter, and vanilla mixture until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Bake Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans before removing.
- Prepare Coffee Syrup: In a small bowl, combine the cooled espresso or strong brewed coffee, sugar, and coffee liqueur if using. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Set aside to use for soaking the cake layers.
- Make Mascarpone Cream Filling: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream to soft peaks using a mixer. In another mixing bowl, whisk together the softened mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until the filling becomes light and fluffy.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and brush it generously with the prepared coffee syrup. Spread half of the mascarpone cream filling evenly over this layer. Add the second cake layer on top, brush it with the remaining coffee syrup, and spread the rest of the mascarpone filling over the top and sides to cover the cake evenly.
- Finish and Chill: Smooth the top and sides of the cake with a spatula. Dust the entire cake lightly with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings or curls if desired. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and the filling to set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a stronger coffee flavor, prepare the cake a day ahead and let it chill overnight.
- You can substitute the cake layers with sponge cake or ladyfingers if preferred for a more traditional tiramisu texture.
