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Tiramisu Cake with Coffee Soak

Tiramisu Cake with Coffee Soak

Tiramisu Cake with Coffee Soak is a decadent layered dessert that blends moist coffee-soaked cake layers with creamy mascarpone custard. This elegant cake captures the classic Italian tiramisu flavors in a cake format, featuring layers of espresso-infused sponge or ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder. Perfect for celebrations or cozy evenings, it offers a luscious balance of bold coffee and sweet creaminess with versatile options for dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Cake and Soak

  • Espresso or strong brewed coffee – 1½ cups, cooled
  • Granulated sugar – ⅓ cup (for soak and custard)
  • Rum or coffee liqueur (optional) – 2 tablespoons
  • Ladyfingers or sponge cake layers – enough for 3 layers (approx. 24 ladyfingers or 3 cake layers of 8 inches)

Mascarpone Cream

  • Mascarpone cheese – 16 oz (450 g), room temperature
  • Egg yolks – 4 large
  • Heavy cream – 1 cup, chilled
  • Granulated sugar – ⅓ cup (for custard)

Topping

  • Cocoa powder – for dusting
  • Chocolate shavings or finely ground coffee (optional) – for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Coffee Soak: Brew a strong cup of espresso or dark coffee. Stir in granulated sugar and, if using, add rum or coffee liqueur. Allow the mixture to cool completely so it can soak into the cake layers without making them soggy.
  2. Make the Mascarpone Cream: Whisk the egg yolks and sugar over gentle heat until the mixture becomes thick and pale, forming a smooth custard. Remove from heat and let cool. Fold in the mascarpone cheese until the texture is silky and smooth. Separately, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks and gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture to create a light and airy cream.
  3. Assemble the Layers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger or sponge cake layer into the coffee soak so they absorb just enough liquid. Arrange the soaked layers in your cake pan. Spread a generous layer of mascarpone cream over each coffee-soaked layer. Repeat layering, finishing with a thick layer of cream on top.
  4. Chill to Set: Cover the assembled cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up for clean slicing.
  5. Finish and Serve: Before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu cake generously with cocoa powder. Optionally, garnish with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of finely ground coffee for an elegant presentation.

Notes

  • Use high-quality espresso for the best flavor impact.
  • Do not over-soak the cake layers; a quick dip is enough to keep the texture moist but not soggy.
  • Chilling the cake overnight enhances flavor and texture.
  • Whip the cream to soft peaks only to avoid grainy texture.
  • Use a flat spatula to apply mascarpone cream evenly for balanced layers and a beautiful appearance.

Nutrition

Keywords: tiramisu cake, coffee soak, mascarpone, Italian dessert, layered cake, no-bake cake, coffee dessert