Tiramisu Cheesecake

Tiramisu Cheesecake blends two classic desserts—rich, creamy cheesecake and espresso-infused tiramisu—into one elegant treat. With a luscious mascarpone and cream cheese filling, a coffee-soaked ladyfinger layer, and a dusting of cocoa powder, this showstopping dessert is perfect for special occasions or indulgent cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the best of tiramisu and cheesecake in one dessert
• Elegant enough for holidays, birthdays, or dinner parties
• Silky texture with bold coffee and cocoa flavors
• Optional no-bake or baked preparation
• Customizable with different crusts or liqueurs
• Easy to prepare ahead of time

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cream cheese (full-fat, brick-style)
• Mascarpone cheese
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs (for baked version)
• Heavy cream or sour cream
• Vanilla extract
• Ladyfingers (savoiardi)
• Strong brewed espresso or coffee
• Coffee liqueur (optional)
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
• Crust: crushed chocolate cookies, graham crackers, or digestive biscuits with melted butter

directions

Baked Version

1. Make the crust: Combine crushed cookies with melted butter and press into a springform pan. Bake briefly at 350°F for 8–10 minutes. Let cool.
2. Prepare filling: Beat cream cheese, mascarpone, and sugar until smooth. Mix in eggs, vanilla, and cream.
3. Layer: Pour half the batter over the crust. Dip ladyfingers quickly into espresso (with or without liqueur) and arrange over batter. Add the rest of the filling on top.
4. Bake: Use a water bath and bake at 325°F for about 60 minutes or until set with a slight jiggle.
5. Chill: Cool completely, then chill for at least 6 hours or overnight.
6. Top and serve: Dust with cocoa powder and slice to serve.

No-Bake Version

1. Make crust: Press prepared crumb mixture into a pan and chill.
2. Prepare filling: Beat cream cheese, mascarpone, sugar, vanilla, and whipped cream until smooth and fluffy.
3. Assemble: Layer half the filling, add coffee-soaked ladyfingers, then the remaining filling.
4. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 8 hours until firm.
5. Finish: Dust with cocoa powder before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 10–12
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Bake time: 60 minutes (for baked version)
• Chill time: 6–8 hours
• Total time: ~7–9 hours (depending on version)

Variations

• Use a chocolate cookie crust or classic graham cracker crust
• Add a swirl of espresso to the batter for deeper flavor
• Use Kahlua, rum, or Marsala wine in the coffee soak
• Add shaved chocolate or chocolate chips to the filling
• Top with whipped cream for added richness

storage/reheating

• Refrigerate covered for up to 5 days
• Freeze without toppings for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge overnight
• Serve chilled—no reheating needed

FAQs

Can I make this without mascarpone?

Yes, you can substitute it with more cream cheese, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free cookies for the crust and gluten-free ladyfingers to make it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso?

Yes, make it strong to replicate the bold coffee flavor.

How do I prevent cracks in the baked version?

Bake in a water bath and avoid overbaking. Cool slowly in the oven with the door ajar.

Can I make it alcohol-free?

Yes, simply skip the coffee liqueur and use plain espresso or decaf coffee.

Do I need to chill it overnight?

Yes, for the best texture and clean slices, a long chill time is recommended.

Can I skip the ladyfinger layer?

You can, but it adds the traditional tiramisu texture and flavor.

How can I make it more chocolatey?

Add cocoa to the crust, chocolate chips to the filling, or drizzle melted chocolate on top.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but you’ll need a larger springform pan and longer baking time if using the baked method.

Can I use whipped topping instead of heavy cream?

Yes, though fresh whipped cream offers better flavor and structure.

Conclusion

Tiramisu Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert fusion—layered, luscious, and loaded with the rich flavors of coffee, cocoa, and creamy cheese. Whether you choose the baked or no-bake version, this indulgent treat is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Prepare it in advance and savor every decadent slice.

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