If you adore the classic Italian dessert but crave something with a cake-like twist, this Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe is going to become your new go-to indulgence. Combining the rich flavors of strong coffee, smooth mascarpone, and luscious layers of moist, fluffy cake, each bite is a harmonious symphony of textures and tastes. It’s a delightful way to impress friends or treat yourself to a luxurious dessert that feels special yet approachable. Trust me, once you dive into this coffee-kissed cake, you’ll be wondering why you haven’t made it sooner!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Whipping up this Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe requires surprisingly simple and accessible ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building its unforgettable flavor and texture. From the fragrant brewed coffee to the creamy mascarpone, every element works in delicious harmony.
- All-purpose flour (1 ¾ cups): The base that gives structure and tenderness to your cake layers.
- Baking powder (1 ½ tsp): Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay light.
- Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the other flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- Unsalted butter (¾ cup, softened): Adds richness and creates a moist crumb.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens just right while aiding texture.
- Large eggs (3): Provide moisture, binding, and lift for the cake.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Infuses a warm, aromatic depth to the batter.
- Strong brewed coffee (1 cup, cooled): The heart of the recipe that brings that irresistible coffee essence.
- Coffee liqueur (2 tbsp, optional): Adds an adult kick and intensifies the coffee flavor.
- Mascarpone cheese (1 ½ cups, softened): Creamy and luxurious, it’s a must for the filling.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): Whipped to fluffy perfection to lighten the mascarpone filling.
- Powdered sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the filling smoothly without grit.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Elevates the filling with a subtle vanilla note.
- Brewed coffee (¾ cup, cooled): For soaking the cake layers and infusing moisture and flavor.
- Coffee liqueur (¼ cup, optional): Mixed into the soaking syrup to brighten the coffee notes.
- Sugar (2 tbsp): Balances the soaking syrup for a perfect, not-too-bitter soak.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: For dusting the top and adding a beautiful finish.
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional): A stunning garnish that adds texture and an extra chocolate touch.
How to Make Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepping two 8-inch round cake pans with grease and flour. Mixing the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, and salt—in one bowl ensures even distribution. In another large bowl, cream your softened butter and sugar together until fluffy and light; this step is what makes your cake tender. Incorporate the eggs one at a time to ensure the batter emulates a smooth, airy texture, then stir in vanilla. The magic happens when you carefully fold in the dry ingredients alternated with the brewed coffee and coffee liqueur—that gives the cake its signature moistness and café-inspired flavor.
Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This test guarantees your cake is perfectly baked—not dry, not undercooked. Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, which prevents sogginess and sets you up for flawless assembly.
Step 3: Whip the Mascarpone Filling
While the cake cools, it’s time for the rich mascarpone filling. Beat together the softened mascarpone cheese, heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. This luscious mixture brings the classic tiramisu creaminess in a form that spreads easily between each cake layer, marrying every bit of flavor in a soft, dreamy texture.
Step 4: Make the Coffee Soaking Syrup
In a small bowl, stir together brewed coffee, coffee liqueur, and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved. This syrup is crucial—it imparts moistness and infuses all the cake layers with that irresistible coffee punch critical to perfecting the Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe.
Step 5: Assemble Your Cake Layers
Now the fun part: slicing each cooled cake horizontally in half to yield four even layers. Place the first layer on your serving plate and drizzle generously with the coffee soaking syrup. Spread a thick layer of mascarpone filling over it. Repeat this build-up with the remaining layers, finishing with a smooth coat of filling on top to seal in all those lovely flavors.
Step 6: Chill to Perfection
Pop your assembled cake into the refrigerator for at least 2 to 3 hours, or better yet, overnight. This chilling step lets all the layers soak up the coffee syrup fully and allows the mascarpone filling to firm up beautifully, making each slice clean and delectably creamy.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Just before serving, dust the entire top of the cake with unsweetened cocoa powder, sprinkling dark chocolate shavings if you’re feeling fancy. This not only enhances the visual appeal but adds a balanced bitterness that complements the sweet, creamy layers below. Now, slice generously, serve, and prepare for compliments!
How to Serve Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the rustic elegance of your Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe, a dusting of cocoa powder brings a classic touch. Dark chocolate shavings add texture and a hint of bittersweet luxury. If you want to get creative, try a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted hazelnuts or a few chocolate-covered espresso beans crown the top nicely while doubling the coffee intensity.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a simple scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream if you want to keep things light but indulgent. For those who love textures, a crunchy biscotti or almond cookies on the side contrast perfectly with the creamy layers. Don’t forget a beautifully brewed espresso or cappuccino to round off the coffee experience!
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve your Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe in individual glass trifle cups by layering cubes of the cake, soaking syrup, and mascarpone filling for a pretty and easy-to-eat variation. Alternatively, top the whole cake with edible gold leaf flakes or a drizzle of salted caramel for a luxe finish perfect for celebrations. This cake adapts beautifully to festive occasions or relaxed coffee dates alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe is chilled and assembled, keep it covered tightly in the refrigerator to preserve its freshness. It will stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for prep ahead of a party or weekend treat.
Freezing
If you want to make this cake in advance, it freezes well. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil to avoid freezer burn. When frozen, your cake can last up to one month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving, and avoid refreezing once thawed to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. However, if you prefer your coffee flavors warm, try serving with a side of warm coffee rather than warming the cake itself, which could affect the mascarpone consistency.
FAQs
Can I make this cake without coffee liqueur?
Absolutely! The coffee liqueur is optional and mostly adds depth and a slight boozy note. You can omit it without sacrificing the core flavor—the strong brewed coffee alone is enough to infuse the cake with authentic tiramisu character.
What if I don’t have mascarpone cheese?
If mascarpone isn’t available, a mixture of cream cheese and heavy cream is the nearest substitute. Blend them well to achieve a similar creamy texture, but mascarpone remains the gold standard for that signature tiramisu richness.
How long does it take for the cake flavors to meld?
For the best taste and texture, refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 to 3 hours, ideally overnight. This resting time allows the coffee syrup to soak through the layers and the mascarpone filling to set, creating a truly harmonious dessert experience.
Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?
While brewed coffee provides a richer, more complex flavor, you can use strong instant coffee if needed. Just dissolve it in hot water and cool it completely before using it in the batter and soaking syrup to maintain the proper intensity.
Is this cake suitable for special occasions?
Definitely! The sophisticated flavors and elegant presentation of this Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe make it a show-stopping dessert for birthdays, holidays, or dinner parties. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and impressive.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably magical about this Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe—it brings comfort and celebration together in one unforgettable bite. Whether you’re a tiramisu fanatic or a cake lover new to coffee desserts, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the best of both worlds. So go ahead, give it a try and let this moist, creamy, coffee-kissed creation brighten your dessert table and your day.
Print
Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Coffee Tiramisu Cake is a decadent layered dessert combining moist coffee-infused cake layers with a creamy mascarpone filling. Inspired by the classic Italian tiramisu, it features brewed coffee and optional coffee liqueur both in the cake batter and soaking syrup, finished with a dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder and optional dark chocolate shavings for an elegant touch. Perfect for coffee lovers looking for a sophisticated, indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
Mascarpone Filling
- 1 ½ cups mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Soaking Syrup
- ¾ cup brewed coffee, cooled
- ¼ cup coffee liqueur (optional)
- 2 tbsp sugar
Finishing
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
- Make the cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—a crucial step for a tender crumb. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate air. Stir in vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry flour mixture alternately with the brewed coffee and optional coffee liqueur, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Bake the cake: Evenly divide the batter between the prepared pans, smoothing the tops for even layers. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the mascarpone filling: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened mascarpone cheese, heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This will take about 2 to 3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Make the soaking syrup: In a small bowl, combine cooled brewed coffee, coffee liqueur (if using), and sugar. Stir thoroughly until the sugar has dissolved to create a flavorful soaking syrup for the cake.
- Assemble the cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, slice each cake horizontally in half to create four thin layers. Place the first layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Generously brush the layer with the coffee soaking syrup to infuse moisture and flavor. Spread a thick layer of the mascarpone filling on top. Repeat this process with the remaining cake layers, soaking syrup, and mascarpone filling. Finish with a final layer of mascarpone filling on top.
- Chill the cake: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 to 3 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to firm up for easier slicing and serving.
- Finish and serve: Just before serving, dust the top of the cake generously with unsweetened cocoa powder for that classic tiramisu look. Optionally, garnish with dark chocolate shavings to add texture and an elegant finish.
Notes
- For best results, use strong brewed coffee or espresso for a more pronounced coffee flavor.
- Adjust the amount of coffee liqueur or omit it entirely to suit dietary preferences.
- Ensure cakes are completely cooled before slicing and assembling to prevent the filling from melting.
- Refrigerating the cake overnight enhances the flavors and texture significantly.
- Use room temperature mascarpone to achieve a smoother filling.
- Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator; best consumed within 2-3 days.
