If you’re looking for a dessert that embodies elegance, comfort, and that classic coffee kick, this Tiramisu Cake Recipe is going to steal your heart. Imagine layers of moist, buttery sponge cake soaked in rich espresso and coffee liqueur, topped with a luxuriously creamy mascarpone frosting, all dusted with a delicate blanket of cocoa powder. This cake takes the essence of traditional tiramisu but transforms it into a stunning, shareable dessert that’s just as delightful on a weekday treat as it is for special celebrations. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll have a new favorite to call on whenever those cravings hit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting this Tiramisu Cake Recipe is surprisingly straightforward, thanks to a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s building the soft cake layers, infusing that unmistakable coffee flavor, or creating a creamy frosting that ties everything together in perfect harmony.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake providing structure and tenderness.
- Baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake layers.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens and contributes to a lovely crumb.
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add lift.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the cake’s flavor.
- Whole milk: Keeps the cake moist with a silky texture.
- Strong brewed espresso or coffee: The soul of the soak, delivering bold, authentic coffee taste.
- Coffee liqueur (optional): Gives an adult twist with a subtle boozy kick.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone frosting smoothly without graininess.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whips up lightness and creaminess in the frosting.
- Mascarpone cheese: The creamy star that makes the frosting luscious and rich.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: For dusting, adding that perfect bittersweet balance on top.
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional): Provides a beautiful, textured garnish.
How to Make Tiramisu Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), then grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans. Mixing the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, and salt—in a bowl lets you get them evenly distributed for that perfect rise. In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy; this step is key for a tender crumb. Add the eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. Alternate folding in the dry ingredients with the milk, starting and ending with the dry mixture. Divide the batter evenly into the pans and bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Set them aside to cool completely before assembly.
Step 2: Make the Espresso Soak
While the cakes cool, mix together the cooled strong espresso or coffee with coffee liqueur if you’re using it, plus the granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. This soak is vital because it imparts that unmistakable coffee punch that transforms this cake into the classic tiramisu-inspired delight.
Step 3: Whip Up the Mascarpone Frosting
Chill your heavy cream and mascarpone cheese before beginning. Whip the cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form—this gives your frosting that airy texture. Gently fold in the mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract, then beat just until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Be careful not to overbeat, as mascarpone can become grainy if overmixed, and nobody wants that.
Step 4: Assemble Your Tiramisu Cake
Place one cake layer on your serving plate and brush it generously with half of the espresso soak. Don’t be shy—this keeps the cake moist and infuses it with those signature coffee notes. Spread a thick layer of mascarpone frosting over the soaked cake. Repeat the process with the second layer and remaining soak, then cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Finish by dusting the entire top with unsweetened cocoa powder and, if you like, sprinkle some dark chocolate shavings to add texture and a bit of elegance. Refrigerate the cake for at least two hours to let the flavors fully meld and the frosting set beautifully.
How to Serve Tiramisu Cake Recipe
Garnishes
While cocoa powder and chocolate shavings are classics, don’t be afraid to get creative with your garnishes. Fresh raspberries, a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted hazelnuts, or even a few edible flowers can add a colorful, fresh contrast to the richness. Each garnish shapes the presentation and flavor in a delightful way, giving your tiramisu cake that wow factor when it hits the table.
Side Dishes
Pairing this cake with simple sides will keep the spotlight on your Tiramisu Cake Recipe. A scoop of vanilla bean gelato or a dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the creamy texture and coffee flavors perfectly. For an extra indulgent vibe, serve alongside a cup of espresso or an aromatic cappuccino to echo the coffee notes in the cake.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your tiramisu cake in individual glass trifle cups for a fun twist on portioning. You could also layer the cake and frosting in a mason jar for a rustic feel that’s perfect for parties or picnics. If you want to go big, decorate with ladyfinger biscuits around the cake edges, tied with a pretty ribbon, for a charming presentation that makes your dessert table unforgettable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover tiramisu cake is a blessing in disguise because its flavor actually improves after resting overnight. Keep it tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain moisture and freshness. A good airtight container or cake dome works wonders to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake if you want to prepare it ahead of time. To do so, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. The texture holds up surprisingly well, giving you a delicious treat ready whenever you crave.
Reheating
This cake is best served chilled, so reheating is not usually necessary. However, if you prefer a slightly softer texture, let the slice sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before digging in. This brings out the flavors beautifully without compromising the creamy frosting.
FAQs
Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso for this recipe?
Absolutely! Strong brewed coffee works fine and offers that essential coffee flavor. Just make sure it’s brewed strong to avoid a weak soak that won’t complement the cake properly.
Is it necessary to use coffee liqueur?
Nope! Coffee liqueur is optional and only adds a subtle boozy depth. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply omit it and increase the brewed coffee slightly if needed.
Why is the mascarpone frosting so important?
Mascarpone cheese provides a signature creamy, slightly tangy richness that sets this frosting apart from typical buttercream. It’s what really brings the “tiramisu” character to the cake.
How long can this cake be stored refrigerated?
You can keep the cake refrigerated for up to three days. After that, quality and texture may start to decline, so it’s best enjoyed sooner rather than later.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, you can make a gluten-free version. Just make sure your blend includes xanthan gum or similar for structure.
Final Thoughts
This Tiramisu Cake Recipe is truly one of those desserts that bring smiles to the dinner table every time. Its blend of coffee-soaked layers and creamy mascarpone frosting creates a comforting yet sophisticated dessert that anyone can make at home. I encourage you to give it a try—whether for a special occasion or just because you deserve a little treat. Once you taste this cake, it might just become your go-to recipe to impress friends and family alike!
Print
Tiramisu Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes (plus at least 2 hours chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Tiramisu Cake Recipe is a delicious twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring moist layered cake soaked in espresso and coffee liqueur, layered with creamy mascarpone frosting, and topped with cocoa powder and chocolate shavings. Perfect for coffee lovers and those looking for an elegant dessert to impress.
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the espresso soak:
- 3/4 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the mascarpone frosting:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, chilled
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For topping:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to combine evenly.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, which ensures a tender cake texture.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Bake the cake layers: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 22–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely.
- Prepare espresso soak: Stir together the cooled espresso, coffee liqueur (if using), and granulated sugar until the sugar is dissolved, creating a flavorful soak.
- Make mascarpone frosting: Whip the cold heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Then, add chilled mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract and beat gently until smooth and fluffy, taking care not to overmix.
- Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and brush generously with half of the espresso soak. Spread a thick layer of mascarpone frosting on top. Repeat with the second cake layer and remaining espresso soak. Cover the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
- Decorate and chill: Dust the top of the cake with unsweetened cocoa powder and sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings if desired. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld and frosting to set.
Notes
- The cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
- Keep the cake refrigerated until ready to serve to maintain freshness and texture.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the coffee liqueur from the espresso soak.
