There’s a moment right before the first slice of cake is served, where anticipation hangs in the air like the rich aroma of freshly brewed espresso. That blissful experience inspired this decadent Tiramisu Cake, a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert that promises to whisk you away to a café in Rome with each bite.
I stumbled upon the perfect combination of vanilla cake layered with espresso chocolate ganache and luxurious mascarpone cream during a weekend baking binge. It transformed my typical dessert routine into something extraordinary. Imagine how your family and friends will marvel at this stunning creation, especially after long days spent in pursuit of homemade comfort over fast food.
With its velvety layers and unique flavor profile, this Tiramisu Cake not only elevates any gathering but also makes baking feel effortless. So, grab your mixing bowl and let’s create a timeless dessert that will leave everyone begging for seconds!
Why is this Tiramisu Cake a must-try?
Indulgence at Its Finest: You’ll adore the rich flavors from the espresso chocolate ganache that perfectly complement the vanilla cake.
Impressive Presentation: This cake is as beautiful as it is delicious, making it a showstopper for any gathering.
Easy to Assemble: Layering may look intricate, but it’s simple enough for novice bakers to master with confidence.
Versatile Delight: Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a casual get-together, this cake fits any occasion and satisfies all taste buds.
A Step Above Fast Food: By creating this heavenly dessert at home, you’ll ditch the ordinary and impress loved ones with a taste of authentic Italian cuisine.
Tiramisu Cake Ingredients
For the Vanilla Cake
- Cake flour – 3 ¾ cups; this ensures a light and fluffy texture that is ideal for our Tiramisu Cake.
- Granulated sugar – 2 ½ cups; a key player in creating that delightful sweetness.
- Baking soda – 1 ½ teaspoons; helps the cake rise to fluffy perfection.
- Diamond Kosher salt – 1 tablespoon; balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract) – 2 tablespoons (or 2 teaspoons); for a robust vanilla flavor.
- Almond extract – ½ teaspoon; adds a subtle depth to the cake’s taste.
- Buttermilk – 1 ½ cups; moistens the cake while lending a slight tang.
- Eggs – 3; for structure and richness.
- Avocado oil – 1 ½ cups; a healthy fat that keeps the cake moist.
- Melted salted butter – ½ cup; enhances flavor and texture.
- Hot water – ¼ cup; helps to enrich the batter.
For the Espresso Chocolate Ganache
- Dark chocolate – 8 ounces; provides a decadent base for the ganache.
- Butter – 6 tablespoons; adds creaminess and shine to the ganache.
- Vanilla – 2 teaspoons; infuses the ganache with warm notes.
- Sugar – 1 ¼ cups; sweetens the rich chocolate taste.
- Heavy cream – 1 ¼ cups; forms the silky texture of the ganache.
- Instant espresso powder – 2 tablespoons; imparts an intense coffee flavor to enhance the tiramisu theme.
- Pinch of salt – elevates the chocolate flavors beautifully.
- Hot water – ½ cup; helps dissolve the espresso powder.
For the Mascarpone Cream
- Instant espresso powder – 2 tablespoons; reinforces that authentic tiramisu flavor.
- Grand Marnier – 2 tablespoons; adds a pleasant citrus note and depth to the cream.
- Mascarpone – 8 ounces; provides a rich and creamy layer that pairs perfectly with the cake.
- Heavy cream – 1 ¼ cups; essential for achieving airy and fluffy peaks.
- Salt – 1/8 teaspoon; brings out the sweetness of the cream.
- Granulated sugar – ¼ cup; sweetens the mascarpone cream just right.
- Vanilla bean paste – 1 tablespoon; enhances the cream’s flavor profile.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – 3 tablespoons (for dusting); gives a classic tiramisu finish.
With these carefully selected ingredients, your Tiramisu Cake will not only impress but also deliver those satisfying homemade flavors your family craves! Happy baking!
How to Make Tiramisu Cake
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a moment to grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release once baked.
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Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Whisk together the cake flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and Diamond Kosher salt until evenly combined, creating a lovely base for the Tiramisu Cake.
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Combine the wet ingredients. Add the vanilla bean paste, almond extract, buttermilk, eggs, and avocado oil to the flour mixture. Mix gently until just combined; avoid over-mixing for a fluffy texture.
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Incorporate the melted butter. Stir in the melted salted butter, then add the hot water, mixing until the batter is smooth and well combined—your batter should be glossy and thick, yet pourable.
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Distribute the batter. Pour the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen!
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Cool the cakes. Once they’re done baking, let the cakes rest in the pans for 10 minutes. Gently turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely before you layer.
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Prepare the ganache. Cut the butter into 6 pieces and place it into a medium bowl along with chopped dark chocolate, salt, and vanilla. Set this aside to melt beautifully together.
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Heat the cream mixture. In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the heavy cream and sugar until hot, just before boiling. This step is crucial to make a silky ganache.
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Mix in the espresso powder. Once your cream is heated, stir in the instant espresso powder. Pour this mixture over the chocolate and butter, letting it sit for 1 minute before whisking everything together until smooth.
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Cool the ganache. Set the ganache in the fridge, stirring every 15-20 minutes until it thickens but is not hard. The texture should be spreadable—perfect for layering!
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Combine the mascarpone cream. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the mascarpone cheese and heavy cream on medium speed until well combined, about 30 seconds.
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Add sugar and flavor. Mix in the granulated sugar, vanilla bean paste, and salt. Continue beating on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, around 1-2 minutes. Chill until ready to use.
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Create the espresso soak. In a small bowl, whisk together the hot water and instant espresso powder until dissolved. Stir in the Grand Marnier and let this flavorful mixture cool.
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Level the cakes. Carefully trim the tops of the cooled cakes using a serrated knife to create even layers for beautiful stacking.
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Layer the first cake. Place the first layer on a serving plate or cake stand, and generously dab half of the espresso soak over the top with a pastry brush.
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Spread the ganache. Gently apply a thin layer of the espresso chocolate ganache over the soaked cake. Top it off with a generous layer of the mascarpone cream, and don’t forget to dust with cocoa powder!
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Repeat the process. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the espresso soaking, ganache spreading, and cream layering, finishing off with the third cake layer.
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Decorate the cake. Use the remaining ganache to coat the top and sides of your masterpiece. Feel free to pipe any reserved mascarpone cream decoratively on top, turning your cake into a showstopper!
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Finish with cocoa dusting. Lightly dust the top of your Tiramisu Cake with the remaining cocoa powder for that classic touch.
Optional: Add chocolate shavings on top for extra flavor and decoration!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Tiramisu Cake?
Create an extraordinary dining experience with accompaniments that enhance the enchanting flavors of your Tiramisu Cake.
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Espresso: A classic choice, serving a fresh cup of espresso will amplify the coffee notes in the cake, making each bite even more delightful.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream topped with cocoa adds a lovely contrast to each rich slice of cake. It’s a simple yet pleasing pairing!
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Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries bring a burst of freshness and acidity, cutting through the richness while visually brightening the dessert table. Their tartness perfectly complements the sweet layers.
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Chocolate Mousse: If you want to be indulgent, accompany your cake with a small serving of chocolate mousse to satisfy the chocolate lovers in the room. It’s a divine duo!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream balances the flavors, providing a cool, soothing contrast to the warm notes of espresso and chocolate ganache.
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Amaretto: Drizzling a splash of amaretto over your cake adds a nutty sweetness that’s a wonderful extra layer of flavor. Perfect for those seeking a more adult treat.
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Nutty Biscotti: For a crunchy texture, serve your Tiramisu Cake alongside almond or hazelnut biscotti. It creates a delightful contrast in both flavor and bite.
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Port Wine: A glass of fruity port serves as an elegant pairing, enhancing the flavors of the espresso while providing a sophisticated drinking experience alongside cake.
Tiramisu Cake Variations
Feel free to make this delightful cake your own with these creative ideas!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute cake flour with a gluten-free blend; ensure it has xanthan gum for the best texture.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk in place of buttermilk and a dairy-free butter substitute for a lighter cake.
- Nutty Twist: Incorporate ground hazelnuts into the batter or replace almond extract with hazelnut extract for a richer flavor.
- Add Fruit: Layer in fresh raspberries or strawberries between the cake layers for a fruity surprise that pairs perfectly with coffee.
- Boozy Delight: Swap Grand Marnier for a coffee liqueur like Kahlúa in the espresso soak; it’ll elevate the flavor to new heights.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix chocolate chips into the vanilla cake batter for delightful pockets of melted chocolate in every bite.
- Minty Fresh: Add a drop of peppermint extract to the mascarpone cream for a refreshing twist, perfect for mint lovers!
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper into the ganache for a surprising and cozy flavor profile.
These variations allow you to customize your Tiramisu Cake while maintaining its wonderful essence—happy baking!
Make Ahead Options
These Tiramisu Cake components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save precious time! You can bake the vanilla cake layers up to 3 days in advance; simply let them cool completely, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Additionally, the espresso chocolate ganache can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days—just ensure it’s covered properly to maintain its rich texture. When you’re ready to assemble, simply allow the ganache to soften at room temperature. For the mascarpone cream, prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate; this will deepen the flavors. By prepping these elements ahead, you’ll enjoy a beautifully layered Tiramisu Cake with minimal effort when it’s time to serve!
Expert Tips for Tiramisu Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially eggs and buttermilk, are at room temperature for a smoother batter. This helps create a more tender Tiramisu Cake.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in a dense cake, so treat your batter gently for the best rise.
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Cooling Time: Allow your cakes to cool completely before layering. Trying to assemble while warm can lead to melting ganache or mascarpone cream, making the cake difficult to manage.
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Layering Technique: When dabbing the espresso soak on the cake layers, do so generously but not excessively; this ensures flavor without making the cake soggy.
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Chill for Ease: After decorating, let your assembled cake chill in the refrigerator for about an hour. This helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing easier.
How to Store and Freeze Tiramisu Cake
Room Temperature: This cake is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to leave it out, cover it with plastic wrap or a cake dome for up to 1 day.
Fridge: Store your Tiramisu Cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s covered or placed in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor.
Freezer: You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap each layer separately in plastic wrap, then foil, or place it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For the best texture, avoid reheating; simply enjoy it cold, accentuating that creamy mascarpone and espresso ganache experience.
Tiramisu Cake Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients for my Tiramisu Cake?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, particularly the eggs and dairy, look for freshness. Choose eggs with uncracked shells, and check the expiration date on the buttermilk. As for the vanilla bean paste, opt for a brand with a rich aroma as it will significantly enhance the flavor of your cake.
How should I store leftover Tiramisu Cake?
You can store your Tiramisu Cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just ensure it’s well-covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to keep it moist and prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods. Although it’s tempting to dig in immediately, chilling it for an hour after assembly can let those flavors meld beautifully!
Can I freeze Tiramisu Cake? If so, how?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze your Tiramisu Cake! To do so, wrap each cake layer separately in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to protect it from freezer burn. It should last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw the layers in the refrigerator overnight. You can then assemble it fresh for a special treat!
What if my whipped mascarpone cream doesn’t thicken enough?
Very importantly, if your mascarpone cream isn’t thickening, ensure your heavy cream is very cold and that you’re beating it to soft peaks, not stiff peaks. Also, check that you didn’t overmix the mascarpone beforehand, as it can become too runny if mixed too long. If it’s still too soft, you can refrigerate it briefly, then whip it again for a few more seconds.
Are there any dietary considerations for making Tiramisu Cake?
Definitely! If you’re concerned about allergies, check for any specific ingredient sensitivities. For those avoiding gluten, substituting the cake flour with a gluten-free blend that is designed for baking can work well, though it may slightly alter the texture. Vegans can try plant-based replacements for eggs and dairy, using recipes that accommodate those preferences. Always feel free to ask about alternatives to make it suitable for everyone at your dining table!
Heavenly Tiramisu Cake with Decadent Espresso Ganache
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Whisk together the cake flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and Diamond Kosher salt until evenly combined.
- Combine the wet ingredients. Add the vanilla bean paste, almond extract, buttermilk, eggs, and avocado oil to the flour mixture, mixing gently until just combined.
- Incorporate the melted butter. Stir in melted salted butter and hot water until the batter is smooth.
- Distribute the batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Cut the butter into pieces and place it in a bowl with chopped dark chocolate, salt, and vanilla.
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream and sugar until hot, then mix in the instant espresso powder.
- Pour the cream mixture over chocolate and butter, letting it sit for 1 minute before whisking until smooth.
- Cool the ganache in the fridge until spreadable, stirring every 15-20 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together mascarpone cheese and heavy cream on medium speed.
- Mix in sugar, vanilla bean paste, and salt, then beat until soft peaks form.
- Chill until ready to use.
- Create the espresso soak by whisking together hot water and instant espresso powder, then stir in Grand Marnier.
- Level the cakes by trimming the tops, then place the first layer on a serving plate.
- Generously apply half of the espresso soak on the first layer.
- Spread a thin layer of ganache over the soaked cake, followed by mascarpone cream and a dusting of cocoa powder.
- Place the second layer on top and repeat the soaking, ganache, and cream application.
- Finish with the third layer and coat the top and sides with the remaining ganache.
- Dust the top with cocoa powder and optionally add chocolate shavings for decoration.