There is nothing quite as irresistible as the Coffee Tiramisu Cake—a luscious fusion of two dessert classics that delivers everything you love about tiramisu in a tender, layered cake. The robust flavors of coffee, creamy mascarpone, and light-as-air sponge cake meld together in each slice, offering a sophisticated treat that’s both stunning and incredibly comforting. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply need a pick-me-up, Coffee Tiramisu Cake will be the centerpiece of your table and the delight of your guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple pantry staples are the backbone of this show-stopping cake, and each ingredient shines in its role. From the rich depth of fresh coffee to the cloud-like mascarpone cream, Coffee Tiramisu Cake is a true celebration of how classic ingredients come together to create magic.
- All-purpose flour: Provides a soft, sturdy base for the cake layers to absorb the coffee soak.
- Baking powder: Gives the cake a gentle lift, ensuring a tender and fluffy crumb.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors in the cake.
- Large eggs: Responsible for the cake’s luxurious texture and rich color—beating them properly creates a beautiful rise.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the sponge and dissolves beautifully during the mixing process.
- Strong brewed coffee: Infuses the cake with unmistakable coffee flavor—use your favorite brew!
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances both the cake and the mascarpone cream.
- Unsalted butter: Keeps the sponge moist and adds a subtle richness.
- Espresso or extra-strong coffee: Makes the soul-satisfying coffee soak that sets this dessert apart.
- Coffee liqueur (optional): For a grown-up twist, liqueur deepens the coffee notes and adds complexity.
- Extra sugar (for soak): Blends smoothly into the coffee soak, bringing a touch of sweetness to every bite.
- Mascarpone cheese: At the heart of authentic tiramisu, mascarpone turns the frosting into a dreamy, thick cream.
- Heavy cream: Whipped to pillowy peaks for a light, airy filling and topping.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone layer while keeping it velvety smooth.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: The finishing touch—just a dusting gives that classic, bittersweet tiramisu look and taste.
How to Make Coffee Tiramisu Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. Meanwhile, beat the eggs and granulated sugar at high speed until your mixture is thick, pale, and triples in volume—it’s this aeration that keeps your sponge light. With the mixer on low, blend in the vanilla and cooled coffee, then gently fold in the dry ingredients, taking care not to deflate all that lovely air. Finally, drizzle in the melted butter and fold again until just combined. Divide the batter equally between the prepared pans and bake for 20 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes completely before moving on.
Step 2: Make the Coffee Soak
While your cakes are cooling, combine the strong brewed espresso (or coffee), sugar, and coffee liqueur in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar melts into the warm coffee, creating a fragrant syrup that will keep the cake moist and infuse it with signature tiramisu flavor. If you’re skipping the liqueur, a little extra vanilla extract adds lovely depth.
Step 3: Whip Up the Mascarpone Cream
For that luxurious, billowy topping, beat the mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks, then gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture. This filling is what takes the Coffee Tiramisu Cake from good to unforgettable—you’ll want to sneak a taste before assembling!
Step 4: Assemble the Coffee Tiramisu Cake
Place your first cooled cake layer on your favorite serving plate. Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously soak the cake with half of the coffee syrup—don’t be shy, as this step is key to that moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Spread half the mascarpone cream over the top, smoothing it all the way to the edges. Repeat with the second cake layer, brushing on the remaining coffee soak and topping with the rest of the mascarpone cream. Finish with a generous dusting of cocoa powder for that signature tiramisu flourish. Pop the cake in the fridge for at least two hours to let the flavors meld and the cream set for easy slicing.
How to Serve Coffee Tiramisu Cake
Garnishes
Nothing elevates the final look like a professional garnish! Try a heavy dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder for that classic tiramisu appeal, or top with a few chocolate curls, coffee beans, or even a sprinkle of finely grated bittersweet chocolate for a little extra drama. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, also create a beautiful contrast both visually and in taste.
Side Dishes
Coffee Tiramisu Cake is delicious as a standalone treat, but if you want to play up the Italian theme, serve it alongside a crisp biscotti or delicate almond cookie. A shot of espresso or a glass of dessert wine, such as Vin Santo or Moscato, makes the perfect pairing to enhance those classic flavors without overpowering the cake’s creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Go beyond the expected by assembling your Coffee Tiramisu Cake in individual glass jars for a fun, portable twist, or cut the cake into neat squares and layer them in parfait glasses for a more casual take. Dress up a whole cake on a rustic wooden board for a beautiful centerpiece, or surprise your guests with mini tiramisu cupcakes for special occasions and gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake is a dream for planners: simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, and the texture gets even more luscious as the coffee soak has more time to infuse the sponge.
Freezing
Yes, Coffee Tiramisu Cake freezes beautifully! After assembling and chilling, slice the cake and wrap each piece in plastic, then foil, and freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready for a treat, let slices thaw overnight in the refrigerator or for a few hours at room temperature—perfect for whenever those cravings strike.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat this cake; Coffee Tiramisu Cake is best enjoyed chilled, allowing all the flavors to shine and the mascarpone cream to keep its light, fluffy texture. If serving from frozen, simply allow the slices to come to temperature in the fridge or on the counter before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I make Coffee Tiramisu Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s even better when made a day ahead, giving the cake layers plenty of time to soak up the coffee and the flavors to meld. Just keep it well covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Is it possible to make this without coffee liqueur?
Yes! If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply leave out the liqueur and use additional brewed coffee or a splash of vanilla extract in the soak. The result will still be packed with wonderful coffee flavor.
Can I use a single cake pan and slice the cake in half?
Definitely. If you don’t have two pans, bake the cake in one deep pan, let it cool completely, and then carefully slice it in half horizontally to create two layers. Just be sure to use a sharp serrated knife for the cleanest cut.
What’s the best way to get clean slices?
Chill the cake thoroughly—at least two hours or overnight—then use a long, sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This keeps the layers neat and the mascarpone filling from smearing.
Can I substitute cream cheese for mascarpone?
While mascarpone provides that authentic tiramisu flavor, you can substitute with full-fat cream cheese in a pinch. The texture will be a bit tangier and a little firmer, but the cake will still be absolutely delicious.
Final Thoughts
Few desserts are as satisfying as a slice of homemade Coffee Tiramisu Cake. Every bite is a celebration—rich, creamy, and kissed with espresso. Don’t be surprised when it disappears quicker than you expected! So gather your ingredients, invite a friend or two, and create a dessert that’s guaranteed to become a new favorite. You’re going to love every last forkful!
Print
Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 52 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this Coffee Tiramisu Cake, a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert. Layers of coffee-infused sponge cake, creamy mascarpone filling, and a hint of cocoa make this cake a showstopper at any gathering.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
For the Coffee Soak:
- 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
For the Mascarpone Cream:
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Dusting:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- For the Cake: Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Beat eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy. Add vanilla, coffee, flour mixture, and melted butter. Divide batter, bake for 20-22 minutes, and let cool.
- For the Coffee Soak: Combine coffee, liqueur, and sugar.
- For the Mascarpone Cream: Beat mascarpone with vanilla and sugar. Whip cream to stiff peaks, fold into mascarpone.
- To assemble: Place one cake layer, brush with coffee soak, spread mascarpone cream. Add second layer, brush with soak, spread remaining cream. Dust with cocoa, refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Notes
- This cake is best made ahead for flavors to meld.
- You can bake the cake in a single pan and slice it in half for layering.
- For an alcohol-free version, skip the liqueur and use vanilla extract instead.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
