Tiramisu Cake Recipe | A Decadent Dessert with Coffee & Cream
1. Introduction
If you love tiramisu, then this Tiramisu Cake is going to be your new favorite dessert! A perfect combination of rich coffee flavor, creamy mascarpone frosting, and soft, moist layers of cake, this dessert is a twist on the classic Italian tiramisu, but with a fluffy cake that takes it to the next level.
Why is this dish so amazing? It’s comforting, indulgent, and easy to make while offering all the flavors of tiramisu in every bite. The best part is that you can customize the recipe to your liking—whether you prefer it with extra coffee flavor or a bit more sweetness, this recipe allows for flexibility. The layers of cake and cream melt together so perfectly that each bite feels like a luxurious experience.
In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make a delicious Tiramisu Cake that’s perfect for any special occasion, family gathering, or even a treat to indulge in on a cozy weekend. Ready to bake the most delicious cake ever? Let’s dive into the recipe!
2. Ingredients Breakdown
Before we jump into the preparation, let’s take a look at the key ingredients that will make this cake so delicious:
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): Flour is the foundation of any cake. It provides structure while keeping the texture light and fluffy. For a lighter cake, you can sift the flour to remove any lumps.
- Granulated Sugar (1 ½ cups): Sugar sweetens the cake and helps create a golden brown crust. You can substitute part of the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweetener.
- Baking Powder (2 tsp): This leavening agent helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy. Be sure your baking powder is fresh to avoid a dense cake.
- Eggs (4 large): Eggs provide moisture and structure to the cake. Make sure to use room temperature eggs for better incorporation into the batter.
- Milk (1 cup): Milk helps to create a moist and soft cake texture. You can substitute with plant-based milk like almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Vanilla Extract (2 tsp): Adds a warm, aromatic note that complements the coffee and mascarpone flavors.
- Instant Coffee or Espresso Powder (2 tbsp): This is the secret ingredient that infuses the cake with the rich coffee flavor typical of tiramisu. You can adjust the amount to suit your preference for a stronger or milder coffee flavor.
- Mascarpone Cheese (8 oz): The rich, creamy cheese that defines tiramisu. If you can’t find mascarpone, you can use cream cheese, though the flavor may differ slightly.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): Heavy cream is used to create a smooth, luxurious frosting. It adds to the richness of the cake. For a lighter version, you can use whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
- Cocoa Powder (2 tbsp): This is used both in the frosting and as a topping. It adds depth and a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Coffee Liqueur (optional, 2 tbsp): Adding a splash of coffee liqueur like Kahlúa to the frosting gives it a deeper flavor and a hint of warmth. If you want a non-alcoholic version, simply skip this ingredient and add more brewed coffee.
Substitutions & Dietary Preferences:
- Vegan Version: For a vegan tiramisu cake, swap the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water for each egg), use plant-based milk, and replace mascarpone with vegan cream cheese.
- Gluten-Free Option: You can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of this cake.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we know the ingredients, let’s go through the steps to make this decadent Tiramisu Cake:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cake Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and cocoa powder. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy. This can take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Add in the milk, vanilla extract, and instant coffee or espresso powder. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the flour mixture, being careful not to over-mix to preserve the airiness of the batter.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Make the Mascarpone Frosting
- While the cake is cooling, beat the heavy cream in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form.
- In another bowl, whisk the mascarpone cheese and sugar until smooth. If you want to add coffee liqueur, mix it in with the mascarpone cheese.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until combined, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
- Once the cake has cooled, slice it horizontally into two layers (optional).
- Spread a generous layer of the mascarpone frosting between the cake layers and on top. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
Step 7: Dust with Cocoa Powder and Serve
- To finish, dust the top of the cake with cocoa powder. If desired, you can add a few chocolate shavings or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an extra indulgent touch.
4. Tips and Variations
- For a More Intense Coffee Flavor: Add an extra tablespoon of coffee powder or espresso to the cake batter for a bolder flavor.
- Make It Alcohol-Free: If you prefer to skip the alcohol, replace the coffee liqueur with additional brewed coffee or espresso for a richer flavor.
- Layered Version: For an even more impressive cake, you can slice the cake into three layers and fill each layer with mascarpone frosting, just like a traditional tiramisu.
- Decorate with Berries: Add a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries for a pop of color and sweetness. It pairs beautifully with the creamy, rich texture of the cake.
5. Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a Cup of Coffee: This cake is the ultimate companion to your morning or afternoon cup of coffee. A rich espresso or a smooth latte will balance the sweetness of the cake.
- Serve with Ice Cream: For extra indulgence, serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or coffee-flavored gelato.
- Garnish Ideas: Consider adding a few dark chocolate curls or cocoa-dusted chocolate truffles on top for an elegant touch.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze slices of this cake for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
- Reheating: To enjoy the cake warm, simply microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds. You can also warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.
7. Recipe Notes
- Can Be Prepped Ahead of Time: The cake can be baked a day ahead, and the frosting can also be made in advance. Simply assemble the cake just before serving.
- Best Served Chilled: This cake tastes best when chilled, as the frosting sets nicely and the flavors have time to meld together.
- Optional Equipment: You can use a handheld mixer to beat the mascarpone cream if you don’t have a stand mixer.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 310 |
| Fat | 21g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Sugar | 22g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Sodium | 90mg |
| Cholesterol | 55mg |
| Calcium, Iron | 4%, 6% |
Note: Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp instant coffee or espresso powder
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix dry ingredients and set aside.
- Beat eggs and sugar until fluffy.
- Add wet ingredients and fold in dry mixture.
- Pour into pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Prepare frosting with mascarpone and whipped cream.
- Assemble the cake, frosting layers, and dust with cocoa powder.
Notes:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezes for up to 3 months.
10. Final Thoughts or CONCLUSION
This Tiramisu Cake is a deliciously indulgent dessert that brings the best of Italian flavors into a beautiful, moist cake. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, for a special occasion, or just because, this cake is sure to impress. Let me know how it turns out in the comments below!