If you adore the classic flavors of tiramisu but want to enjoy them in a more festive and shareable form, this Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It captures the rich coffee aroma, the creamy mascarpone magic, and the delicate texture of a sponge cake all layered perfectly for a dessert that feels both indulgent and light. Every bite is like a cozy italian cafe moment, ideal for celebrations or a special treat that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients that come together to create the perfect balance of flavor and texture in your Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe. Each component plays a key role, from the airy sponge to the luscious mascarpone cream and the signature coffee soak that ties everything together.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the fluffy cake layers.
- Baking powder: Helps the cake rise to a light, tender texture.
- Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness.
- Large eggs: Key for richness and helping to aerate the batter.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while aiding in creating a tender crumb.
- Strong brewed coffee (cooled): Infuses the cake itself with deep coffee flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complements the coffee notes beautifully.
- Unsalted butter, melted and cooled: Offers moistness and richness.
- Strong brewed espresso or coffee: The base for the soaking syrup that makes each bite moist and flavorful.
- Coffee liqueur (optional): Adds a subtle boozy depth if you choose to include it.
- Sugar (for coffee soak): Sweetens the coffee soak just enough to balance bitterness.
- Mascarpone cheese: The star ingredient for the creamy, dreamy filling.
- Heavy cream: Whipped to fluffy peaks to lighten the mascarpone mixture.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens without graininess, perfect for the mascarpone cream.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: For that classic dusting finish that complements every bite.
How to Make Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing two 8-inch cake pans, lining them with parchment paper for easy removal. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl to evenly distribute the leavening agents. In a large separate bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar on high speed until pale and billowy, about 4 to 5 minutes—this aeration is the secret to your cake’s light texture. Gently fold in the vanilla extract and cooled coffee, then carefully incorporate the flour mixture and finally the cooled, melted butter. Take your time folding so you don’t deflate the batter but ensure it’s just combined before dividing it evenly between the pans.
Step 2: Baking the Cake
Bake the cake layers for 20 to 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This timing keeps the cake moist but cooked through. Once baked, allow the layers to cool completely on wire racks—rushing this step can cause the layers to tear during assembly.
Step 3: Crafting the Coffee Soak
While the cake cools, mix together your strongly brewed espresso or coffee, coffee liqueur if you’re using it, and sugar until fully dissolved. This soak is precisely what imbues the cake with its signature moistness and vibrant coffee punch, so don’t skimp here.
Step 4: Making the Mascarpone Cream
Beat the mascarpone cheese with the vanilla extract and powdered sugar until smooth and luscious. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Then, gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture—this ensures your filling stays light while still luxuriously creamy.
Step 5: Assembling the Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe
Place one cake layer on your serving plate and generously brush it with half of the coffee soak—it’s what makes every bite melt in your mouth. Spread half the mascarpone cream evenly on top, then place the second cake layer over it. Repeat the soaking with the remainder of the coffee mixture and finish by spreading the remaining mascarpone cream on top. Dust the entire cake with unsweetened cocoa powder to add just the right touch of bittersweet chocolate aroma. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours so the flavors have time to meld and the cream sets beautifully.
How to Serve Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding an elegant garnish elevates this Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe to stunning dessert status. Consider a fine dusting of cocoa powder, some chocolate shavings, or even a few fresh coffee beans artfully scattered on top. A sprig of mint or a light drizzle of chocolate sauce can add visual interest and an extra flavor dimension that complements the coffee and mascarpone perfectly.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs gorgeously with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for extra indulgence. If you’re serving it as part of a coffee break spread, a selection of biscotti or fresh berries can provide refreshing contrasts and keep the palate excited.
Creative Ways to Present
For a wow-factor presentation, assemble the cake in individual glass jars or clear dessert bowls for single servings that show off the beautiful layers. Alternatively, slicing into generous squares and stacking them on a pretty platter invites sharing. You could also try decorating the top with a stencil pattern of cocoa powder for a professional, elegant finish that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. It’s best enjoyed within 3 days to savor its freshness and creamy texture before the cake starts to dry out.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s best to freeze the cake before adding the mascarpone cream layer to maintain the texture. Wrap the cake layers well in plastic and foil to avoid freezer burn. Thaw fully in the refrigerator before assembling and serving for optimal taste.
Reheating
This dessert is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t recommended as it can affect the texture of the mascarpone cream and the cake’s delicate crumb. Simply allow it to sit out for 15-20 minutes after removing it from the fridge if you prefer it less chilled.
FAQs
Can I make this Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe without alcohol?
Absolutely! The coffee liqueur is optional and can be replaced with a bit more brewed coffee or vanilla extract to maintain the flavor balance without the alcohol.
What if I don’t have espresso for the coffee soak?
You can use any strong brewed coffee you have on hand. Just make sure it’s robust enough to stand up to the sweetness of the cake and cream for that signature bold tiramisu flavor.
How long should the cake chill before serving?
At least 2 hours, but overnight chilling allows the flavors to marry even better and the mascarpone cream to set perfectly.
Can I use store-bought ladyfingers to make this cake?
This recipe is for a layered cake made with sponge cake layers instead of ladyfingers, which are classic in traditional tiramisu. However, if you want a classic tiramisu taste in cake form, this Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe provides the same flavors with a different, more cake-like texture.
What type of mascarpone cheese should I buy?
Look for fresh, high-quality mascarpone cheese from the refrigerated section; it should be creamy and smooth, which is essential for the luxurious cream filling.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyfully indulgent about this Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe that makes it instantly a favorite wherever it goes. From the tender coffee-kissed cake layers to the velvety mascarpone cream, it’s a dessert that invites you to slow down and savor every delightful bite. I truly hope you’ll give this recipe a try and enjoy sharing it with loved ones as much as I do—it’s a sweet experience you won’t forget!
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
This Coffee Tiramisu Cake is a delightful fusion of classic tiramisu flavors with a moist coffee-infused sponge cake layered with creamy mascarpone filling. Perfectly balanced with a hint of espresso and dusted with cocoa powder, this Italian-inspired dessert offers a sophisticated and indulgent treat ideal for special occasions or coffee lovers.
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
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the eggs and granulated sugar on high speed until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy, approximately 4 to 5 minutes. Gradually reduce the mixer speed and incorporate the vanilla extract and cooled strong brewed coffee.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients carefully to maintain the batter’s airiness. Next, fold in the melted and cooled unsalted butter until just combined without overmixing, which ensures a tender cake crumb.
- Bake the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
- Make the Coffee Soak: In a small bowl, combine the strong brewed espresso or coffee with coffee liqueur if using, and sugar. Stir well until the sugar completely dissolves, creating a fragrant coffee soak to moisten the cake layers.
- Prepare the Mascarpone Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with vanilla extract and powdered sugar until smooth and well combined. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated, creating a light and creamy filling.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Generously brush the surface with half of the coffee soak to infuse flavor and moisture. Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the soaked cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top, brush with the remaining coffee soak, and spread the remaining mascarpone cream on top of this layer.
- Finish and Chill: Dust the assembled cake generously with unsweetened cocoa powder for a classic tiramisu touch. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the cream to set firmly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For the best flavor results, prepare the cake a few hours ahead or the day before to let flavors meld beautifully.
- If you prefer, bake the cake in a single 8-inch pan and slice it horizontally into two layers instead of using two pans.
- To keep this dessert alcohol-free, omit the coffee liqueur and substitute with an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract in the coffee soak.
- Ensure heavy cream is well chilled prior to whipping for best results in achieving stiff peaks.
- Use freshly brewed strong espresso or coffee to intensify the coffee flavor in both the cake and soak.
