Name: Tiramisu Cake Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ½ cup whole milk (room temperature, 120 ml); ½ cup sour cream (room temperature, 120 g); 5 large egg whites (room temperature); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 cups unbleached cake flour (360 g); 2 cups granulated sugar (400 g); 2 teaspoons baking powder; ¾ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter (very soft, 226 g); 5 large egg yolks; ½ cup granulated sugar (100 g); 1 teaspoon cornstarch; ¾ cup whole milk (180 ml); 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur; 16 ounces mascarpone cheese (room temperature, 452 g); 5 large egg whites (room temperature); 1½ cups granulated sugar (300 g); 1 pinch sea salt; 2 cups unsalted butter (softened, 454 g); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 tablespoons coffee liqueur; ¾ cup hot water (180 ml); 1½ teaspoons espresso powder; 3 tablespoons coffee liqueur; ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (25 g); 12 chocolate covered espresso beans (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 10 reviews

If you have ever dreamed of combining the luscious creaminess of tiramisu with the soft, fluffy indulgence of a cake, you are in for a fantastic treat with this Tiramisu Cake Recipe. This delightful dessert layers espresso-soaked cake with a rich mascarpone custard and coffee-infused buttercream, creating a sophisticated flavor profile that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something extraordinary, this recipe is bound to impress and satisfy your sweetest desires.

Ingredients You'll Need

A slice of layered cake on a white plate sits in front, showing five light beige sponge layers separated by creamy yellow frosting. The side of the slice is covered with a light brown crumb coating and decorated with white whipped cream swirls and a small dark berry near the bottom. In the background, another similar cake slice is on a white plate next to a cup of black coffee in a white floral cup and saucer. A small clear vase with white flowers and green leaves adds softness to the scene. The surface beneath everything is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Tiramisu Cake Recipe lies in its list of simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering the classic flavors and perfect textures. From the smooth mascarpone cheese to the invigorating espresso powder, every component combines to create that iconic tiramisu experience in cake form.

Whole milk (120ml): Adds moisture and tenderness to the cake layers.
Sour cream (120g): Provides tang and keeps the cake wonderfully moist.
Egg whites (5 large): Whisked to add lightness and fluffiness to the batter.
Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Enhances the flavor with warm, sweet notes.
Unbleached cake flour (360g): Gives the cake a soft and delicate crumb.
Granulated sugar (400g + 100g + 300g): Sweetens different elements for balanced flavor.
Baking powder (2 tsp): Ensures the cake rises perfectly.
Salt (¾ teaspoon + pinch sea salt): Balances sweetness and boosts flavor.
Unsalted butter (226g + 454g): Adds richness and smooth texture in cake and buttercream.
Egg yolks (5 large): Key to luscious custard filling.
Cornstarch (1 tsp): Thickens the custard to perfect consistency.
Coffee liqueur (1 tablespoon + 3 tablespoon + 3 tbsp): Infuses that signature coffee flavor throughout.
Mascarpone cheese (452g): The creamy heart of the tiramisu experience.
Espresso powder (1½ tsp): Delivers a concentrated coffee punch to the syrup.
Hot water (180ml): Used to dissolve espresso powder for soaking the cake.
Unsweetened cocoa powder (25g): For dusting and that classic tiramisu finishing touch.
Chocolate-covered espresso beans (optional, 12): A crunchy, elegant garnish to elevate presentation.

How to Make Tiramisu Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and prepping two 8-inch cake pans with grease and parchment paper for an easy release. Combining whole milk, sour cream, egg whites, and vanilla creates a moist and flavorful base for your cake. Then, blend your dry ingredients with butter until crumbly before carefully folding in your liquid mixture. The batter should be fluffy and light — this is what promises those tender cake layers. Pour the batter evenly and bake for about 35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Remember to cool the cakes completely before moving on to keep your layers intact during assembly.

Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Custard Filling

To craft that classic creamy filling, warm whole milk gently on the stove before slowly whisking it into beaten egg yolks mixed with sugar and cornstarch. Cooking this over low heat until thickened creates a silky custard — patience here means perfect texture. Once the custard cools, folding in mascarpone cheese brings that signature richness and smoothness. Chilling this mixture helps everything set perfectly for layering later on.

Step 3: Whip up the Coffee Buttercream

This buttercream is where the luxurious coffee flavor really shines. Using a double boiler, carefully heat egg whites, sugar, and salt until warm, then whip into a glossy meringue. Gradually add softened butter one tablespoon at a time, turning it into a fluffy, decadent frosting. Finally, blend in coffee liqueur and vanilla for that irresistible tiramisu essence. Keep a portion aside for piping—this will help create beautiful borders and designs.

Step 4: Assemble Your Tiramisu Cake

Mix hot water, espresso powder, and coffee liqueur to make a fragrant syrup that moistens the cake layers beautifully. Slice each cooled cake layer horizontally into thinner layers for maximum indulgence. Start building your cake by brushing syrup onto a layer, then spreading buttercream and piping a border to hold in the luscious mascarpone filling. Repeat with the remaining layers, dusting with cocoa powder as you go. The final layer gets a smooth coat of buttercream, a generous cocoa powder topping, and pretty dollops piped around the edges for that show-stopping look. Chill to let all those divine flavors meld perfectly.

How to Serve Tiramisu Cake Recipe

A tall round cake with five visible layers of light yellow sponge cake separated by thin layers of cream filling is shown. The outside of the cake is covered in smooth white frosting. The top is dusted with cocoa powder, and there are white frosting dollops evenly spaced around the edge, each topped with a dark brown coffee bean or chocolate-covered coffee bean. A slice is missing from the cake, and the slice is placed on a white plate in the background, showing the same five layer pattern. The cake sits on a white plate decorated with a subtle gold pattern. The background has a white marbled texture surface with a stack of white plates, two forks, and a vase of small light green flowers. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an elegant finishing touch, sprinkle unsweetened cocoa powder over the top and add chocolate-covered espresso beans for crunch and a hint of bitterness that balances the sweetness beautifully. These simple additions will make your cake look as good as it tastes and add a delightful texture contrast.

Side Dishes

This Tiramisu Cake Recipe is spectacular on its own, but pairing it with a small cup of freshly brewed espresso or a light, fruit-based dessert like a citrus sorbet takes the experience to another level. The acidity and brightness of the sorbet provide a lovely counterpoint to the creamy, coffee-infused richness of the cake.

Creative Ways to Present

Add personal flair by serving slices on elegant dessert plates with a dusting of cocoa powder or cocoa nibs around the edges. Another fun approach is to offer small individual portions layered in clear glasses for a charming tiramisu-inspired parfait. This way, your guests can admire the layers while enjoying every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Tiramisu Cake Recipe is best kept covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and moistness. Store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to develop even more.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake for longer storage by wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture and taste.

Reheating

Since this dessert is served chilled, reheating is not recommended. Simply allow frozen slices to thaw gently in the refrigerator and enjoy the cake at its intended cool, creamy perfection.

FAQs

Can I make the Tiramisu Cake Recipe without alcohol?

Absolutely! You can omit the coffee liqueur or substitute it with strong brewed espresso or a coffee extract to keep the rich coffee flavor without the alcohol content.

Is it necessary to use mascarpone cheese?

Mascarpone is essential for achieving the classic creamy texture and mild tang that defines tiramisu. While alternatives exist, such as cream cheese blends, they may alter the flavor and consistency.

How long does it take to prepare this Tiramisu Cake Recipe?

The total preparation and chilling time is around 4 hours, including baking, making the fillings, assembling, and chilling. Patience is key to getting those perfect layers and flavors.

Can this cake be made a day in advance?

Yes, in fact, making the cake a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just cover and refrigerate, and serve chilled for best results.

What can I substitute for the espresso powder?

If you don’t have espresso powder, you can use very strong brewed coffee concentrated by reducing it on the stove, or use instant coffee granules dissolved in hot water to mimic the flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Tiramisu Cake Recipe is truly a show-stopper that combines all the best parts of the beloved Italian dessert into one unforgettable cake. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or treating yourself, it’s bound to bring smiles and requests for seconds. Dive in with confidence and enjoy every delicious, coffee-kissed bite!