Tiramisu Cake
Okay, dessert lovers this one’s for you. Imagine the classic Italian tiramisu you know and love, but transformed into a dreamy, layered cake that’s just as elegant as it is indulgent. Say hello to Tiramisu Cake! It’s soft, creamy, coffee-kissed, and just the right amount of sweet. You get layers of fluffy sponge soaked in espresso, nestled between rich mascarpone cream that practically melts in your mouth. Trust me, this cake is the showstopper for any special occasion or, you know, just because you deserve a slice of joy.
Why You’ll Love Tiramisu Cake
This recipe isn’t just about dessert it’s a little edible escape to a cozy Italian café. Here’s why you’re going to fall in love:
Versatile: Perfect for birthdays, dinner parties, or a romantic night in.
Budget-Friendly: No need for fancy patisserie skills—just basic ingredients with luxurious results.
Quick and Easy: Surprisingly simple to assemble for such a fancy-looking cake.
Customizable: Adjust the coffee strength, add cocoa, or spike it with your favorite liqueur.
Crowd-Pleasing: This is one of those desserts that makes people close their eyes and savor. A guaranteed favorite!
Ingredients in Tiramisu Cake
Here’s the lineup for this elegant, creamy masterpiece:
Sponge Cake Layers: Light and airy cake that soaks up the espresso like a sponge (literally!).
Espresso or Strong Coffee: The signature flavor of tiramisu rich and bold.
Mascarpone Cheese: Creamy, slightly tangy, and oh-so-luxurious.
Heavy Cream: Whipped to soft peaks for a smooth and airy texture.
Powdered Sugar: Lightly sweetens the cream without overpowering it.
Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors with warmth.
Cocoa Powder: For dusting the top with that classic tiramisu look.
Coffee Liqueur (optional): Adds an adult twist for a more traditional flair.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Here’s how to bring this gorgeous cake to life don’t worry, it’s easier than you think!
Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two round cake pans. Line with parchment paper for easy removal.
Make the Sponge Cake: Prepare your cake batter, then divide between the pans and bake until golden and springy. Let cool completely.
Brew and Cool Coffee: Brew espresso or strong coffee. Let it cool completely you don’t want to melt your cream layers. Add liqueur if using.
Make the Mascarpone Cream: Beat together mascarpone, vanilla, and powdered sugar. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks, then fold it into the mascarpone mixture.
Soak the Cake Layers: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and brush generously with the cooled coffee mixture.
Layer with Cream: Spread a thick layer of mascarpone cream over the soaked cake.
Repeat and Stack: Top with the second cake layer, soak again, and cover the whole cake with the remaining mascarpone cream.
Dust and Chill: Dust the top with cocoa powder and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to let the flavors mingle.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice, serve, and enjoy every bite of that coffee-kissed goodness!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 10
Calories per serving: Approximately 420
Notes:
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes (includes chilling)
How to Serve Tiramisu Cake
Serve this elegant cake chilled, dusted with extra cocoa or even chocolate shavings if you’re feeling fancy. It pairs beautifully with a cup of espresso, a glass of dessert wine, or just a quiet moment of indulgence.
Additional Tips
Use room-temperature mascarpone to avoid lumps in your cream. Letting the cake chill for a few hours is key it gives it that classic tiramisu texture and allows the flavors to deepen beautifully.
FAQ’s
- Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better the next day after the flavors meld. - Do I have to use coffee liqueur?
Nope! It’s optional. You can leave it out or use a splash of vanilla or almond extract instead. - Can I use store-bought sponge cake?
Absolutely—shortcut alert! Just make sure it’s light enough to soak up the coffee. - How strong should the coffee be?
Strong! Think espresso or very concentrated brewed coffee for that signature tiramisu flavor. - Can I freeze Tiramisu Cake?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If freezing, wrap it tightly and thaw in the fridge overnight. - What if I don’t have mascarpone?
You can sub in cream cheese, though it’s tangier and less authentic. Add extra whipped cream to soften it. - Can I add chocolate layers?
Totally! A thin layer of ganache or chocolate chips adds a nice twist. - How do I keep the cake from getting soggy?
Use a brush to soak the layers gradually don’t pour the coffee directly on. - Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free sponge cake or your favorite gluten-free cake mix. - What toppings work well?
Try chocolate curls, espresso beans, or even a dusting of cinnamon.
Conclusion
Tiramisu Cake is what dessert dreams are made of creamy, coffee-infused, and irresistibly elegant. Whether you’re making it for a celebration or just to treat yourself to something special, it’s guaranteed to wow. So grab your whisk, brew that espresso, and let’s turn your kitchen into a slice of Italy!
Print
Tiramisu Cake
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes (+4 hours chilling)
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tiramisu Cake is a decadent layered dessert that transforms the classic Italian tiramisu into a soft, moist cake filled with espresso-soaked layers, mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder.
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Coffee Syrup:
- 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- For the Mascarpone Filling:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For Dusting:
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add milk, oil, and vanilla extract, then gradually mix in dry ingredients.
- Divide batter between pans and bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool completely.
- In a small bowl, mix brewed espresso, sugar, and coffee liqueur (if using) until sugar dissolves. Set aside.
- For the filling, beat mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks, then gently fold into the mascarpone mixture.
- Slice each cake layer in half horizontally for four layers total. Place one layer on a serving plate, brush generously with coffee syrup, and spread mascarpone filling on top.
- Repeat layering with syrup and filling until all layers are stacked. Frost top and sides with remaining mascarpone cream.
- Dust top with cocoa powder. Chill for at least 4 hours before serving for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use decaf coffee for a caffeine-free version.
- Chilling overnight enhances flavor and structure.
- Add a layer of shaved chocolate or chocolate chips for texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: tiramisu cake, mascarpone dessert, Italian cake, coffee layer cake, espresso cake