Name: Pandan Tiramisu Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 6 h 35 min
Cuisine: Fusion (Italian with Southeast Asian flavors)
Ingredients: 200 ml whole milk; 200 ml coconut milk; 1 teaspoon pandan extract; A few pandan leaves (optional); 600 g mascarpone; 600 ml double cream; 6 large egg yolks; 100 g granulated sugar; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons pandan extract; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; Some toasted desiccated coconut, to sprinkle on top (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 12 reviews

If you are on the lookout for a dessert that combines the classic elegance of tiramisu with a tropical twist, this Pandan Tiramisu Recipe is going to steal your heart. The enchanting aroma of pandan infused into the creamy mascarpone layer elevates this dish to a whole new level, giving you a luscious texture and a vivid green hue that’s simply irresistible. It’s a delightful treat that balances the richness of traditional tiramisu with the fragrant, slightly nutty flavor of pandan, making every bite a joyful adventure for your taste buds.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows a close-up of a grid of nine square dessert pieces. Each piece has two visible layers: the bottom layer is a light green, smooth and creamy texture, and the top layer is covered thickly with toasted shredded coconut that is light brown and white, adding a rough texture. The dessert pieces are neatly cut and placed side by side, with the green layer slightly visible between the pieces. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to nailing this Pandan Tiramisu Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from the smooth mascarpone that brings creaminess to the pandan milk which delivers that signature aromatic punch and lovely green tint.

Whole milk (200 ml): Provides a creamy base with a mild flavor to complement the pandan.
Coconut milk (200 ml): Adds richness and a subtle tropical undertone that elevates the pandan essence.
Pandan extract (1 teaspoon + 2 teaspoons): The star ingredient that brings vibrant flavor and beautiful color.
Pandan leaves (a few, optional): Enhances natural pandan aroma if you want to boost flavor naturally.
Mascarpone (600 g): The luscious creamy cheese that creates the silky texture classic to tiramisu.
Double cream (600 ml): Whipped to soft peaks, it lightens and aerates the mascarpone cream.
Large egg yolks (6): Adds richness and body to the cream mixture.
Granulated sugar (100 g): Sweetens the cream perfectly without overpowering the pandan.
Salt (⅛ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Adds warmth and depth, blending beautifully with pandan.
Toasted desiccated coconut (optional): A crunchy finishing touch that complements pandan’s nutty notes.
Sponge fingers: For soaking in pandan milk, forming the soft cake layers.

How to Make Pandan Tiramisu Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pandan Milk

Let's start by creating the flavorful pandan milk, the soaking liquid that infuses each sponge finger with that distinct, fragrant character. Combine the whole milk, coconut milk, pandan extract, and pandan leaves (if using) in a saucepan. Warm the mixture over medium heat just until it reaches a gentle boil; this helps the pandan flavor to fully infuse. Once boiling, remove from heat, cover, and set aside to let the aroma deepen as it cools.

Step 2: Whipping the Mascarpone Cream

The mascarpone cream is the heart of this Pandan Tiramisu Recipe. First, loosen the mascarpone in a mixing bowl by stirring gently – this helps it blend seamlessly later. In a separate bowl, whip the double cream until soft peaks form, creating a light and fluffy texture to mix in. This contrast between rich and airy is what makes tiramisu so heavenly.

Step 3: Making the Egg Yolk Custard

Here comes the part where you create the velvety custard that holds everything together. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and salt until well combined. Place this bowl over simmering water, making sure the bottom doesn't touch the water, and keep whisking for about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should become lighter in color and the sugar completely dissolve. This gentle heating is crucial to make the custard safe and silky without scrambling the eggs. Let it cool for 5 minutes before proceeding.

Step 4: Combining Flavors and Creams

Add mascarpone, pandan extract, and vanilla extract to the cooled custard, blending until smooth. Then, mix in a good dollop of the whipped cream by whisking to lighten the mixture. Fold in the remaining whipped cream gently in two parts, preserving as much airiness as possible. This delicate folding keeps the mascarpone cream light and fluffy, essential for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 5: Assembling the Pandan Tiramisu

Now for the fun part: layering your Pandan Tiramisu Recipe. Briefly dip each sponge finger into the prepared pandan milk, just enough to soak and absorb flavor without becoming soggy. Arrange a single layer in your 9-inch square dish, then spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the soaked fingers. Repeat with another layer of dipped sponge fingers and the remaining cream. For a finishing touch, sprinkle toasted desiccated coconut on top for extra texture and an inviting aroma.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Cover your assembled tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, although leaving it overnight gives the flavors time to marry and the texture to fully set. This slow chill develops the signature creamy consistency that makes every forkful utterly delightful.

How to Serve Pandan Tiramisu Recipe

Two square pieces of green layered cake sit on separate white plates on a white marbled surface. Each cake has four layers, with two layers of light green creamy frosting alternating with two layers of green-tinted sponge cake. The top layer is a thick, smooth spread of green frosting, finished with a sprinkling of toasted coconut flakes giving a textured, light brown contrast. The cakes are neatly cut and the background features black tiled walls. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your serving presentation with freshly toasted desiccated coconut sprinkled on top, offering a slight crunch and nuttiness that complements the smooth cream. Alternatively, fresh pandan leaves or edible flowers bring a pop of natural color and freshness.

Side Dishes

Pair your pandan tiramisu with light accompaniments like tropical fruit salad or a small scoop of coconut sorbet to balance richness with refreshing contrasts. A cup of jasmine tea or lightly brewed green tea also complements the pandan aroma beautifully without overpowering its delicate flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a twist, try assembling individual portions in small glass jars or clear cups to showcase the beautiful green layers. You can even layer with crushed pistachios for an unexpected crunch or drizzle a little pandan syrup for extra moisture and intensified flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Pandan Tiramisu Recipe is assembled, store any leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator. This dessert stays fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to continue developing without drying out.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, pandantiramisu freezes well. Wrap the container securely in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Keep in mind the texture might be a tiny bit softer after freezing but still incredibly tasty.

Reheating

This tiramisu is best enjoyed chilled and shouldn’t be reheated as warming can affect the cream’s delicate texture. Keep it in the fridge until ready to serve to enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

FAQs

Can I use pandan juice instead of pandan extract?

Absolutely! Fresh pandan juice works wonderfully if you prefer a natural approach. Just adjust the quantity based on its strength and flavor intensity.

Is it necessary to use coconut milk in the pandan milk?

Coconut milk adds depth and richness that complements the pandan beautifully, but you can substitute with additional whole milk if you prefer a lighter version.

Can I make this Pandan Tiramisu Recipe vegan?

For a vegan version, try replacing mascarpone with coconut cream or cashew-based cream, and use plant-based milk alternatives, though the texture will be different from the classic version.

How long should I soak the sponge fingers in pandan milk?

Just a few seconds on each side is enough—longer dips could make them too soggy, which might affect the structure of your tiramisu.

Can this dessert be made without raw eggs?

The egg yolks are gently heated to make a custard that's safe to eat. If you're concerned about raw eggs, you can use pasteurized eggs or try eggless custard recipes, but it will slightly change the texture.

Final Thoughts

This Pandan Tiramisu Recipe is such a joyous way to experience a beloved classic with a fresh, tropical twist that’s sure to impress friends and family. It’s surprisingly easy to make but delivers rich, layered flavors and textures that keep you coming back for more. Give it a try—once you take that first bite, this dessert might just become your new favorite!