If you’re looking for a showstopping dessert that combines the best of two worlds, this Tiramisu Cheesecake is a dream come true! Creamy cheesecake meets the iconic flavors of rich espresso, sweet mascarpone, and cocoa-dusted ladyfingers. Every bite is decadently smooth, deeply layered, and so impressive that your friends will think you learned some secrets from a pastry chef in Rome. Whether you’re a cheesecake fanatic or a tiramisu devotee, you’ll fall in love with this unforgettable treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Good news: making Tiramisu Cheesecake calls for simple yet indispensable ingredients, each playing a starring role in the final dessert. It’s the way these elements harmonize that delivers the incredible flavors and textures that set this cheesecake apart.
- Graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups): The classic buttery foundation for our cheesecake, adding crunch and a toasty flavor.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup + 1 cup): Sweetens both the crust and the creamy filling, balancing the bold coffee notes.
- Melted butter (1/3 cup): Binds the crust together and imparts delicious richness.
- Cream cheese (3 packages, 8 oz each): The essential building block for our ultra-smooth, classic cheesecake texture.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Adds a gentle tang and silkiness to the filling.
- Eggs (3 large): Provide structure and contribute to the luscious, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Helps thicken the batter so every slice holds its shape.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors with its sweet aroma.
- Strong brewed espresso or coffee (1/2 cup): Steeps the cheesecake with that deep, unmistakable coffee flavor.
- Coffee liqueur (2 tablespoons, optional): For adults craving a more intense tiramisu kick.
- Ladyfinger cookies (12, broken into pieces): Give the dessert its authentic tiramisu personality and a delightful texture surprise.
- Cocoa powder (1/4 cup, for dusting): A finishing flourish that brings the whole slice together visually and flavor-wise.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Whipped for a light, fluffy topping that elevates every forkful.
- Powdered sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the whipped mascarpone layer without grittiness.
- Mascarpone cheese (8 oz): The heart of classic tiramisu—its creamy, subtle richness makes the topping irresistible.
How to Make Tiramisu Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter until every crumb is moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure you reach the edges for even coverage. Pop it in the oven and bake for 10 minutes to set the crust—this little step guarantees a crunch that holds up beneath all that creamy filling. Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool while you work on the next layers.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy—no one likes lumps in their cheesecake! Add in the sour cream, eggs (one at a time is best), flour, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until just combined. Over-mixing can make your cheesecake dense or cause cracks, so stop once everything’s beautifully blended and silky.
Step 3: Assemble the Tiramisu Layers
Pour half of your cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, using a spatula to gently spread it to all the edges. In a small bowl, combine the cooled espresso or coffee with the coffee liqueur, if you’re using it. Quickly dip each ladyfinger piece into the coffee mixture—just a second or two so they don’t dissolve—and arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers right over the cheesecake batter. This step is where the signature tiramisu flavors shine through. Pour the remaining batter carefully on top, smoothing it out for even baking.
Step 4: Bake and Cool
Bake your masterpiece in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. The center should be set but still a little wobbly—think of the gentle jiggle of a panna cotta. Turn off the oven, crack open the door, and leave the cheesecake inside for an hour. This slow cooling helps prevent cracks and lets the flavors come together. Afterward, move the cheesecake to the fridge to chill for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better). This patience pays off with the creamiest Tiramisu Cheesecake imaginable.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Once fully chilled, you’re ready to finish with the most irresistible topping. In a bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form (when you lift the beaters, the peaks should gently curl down). Fold in the mascarpone cheese—it’ll turn pillowy and light, yet wonderfully rich. Spread this cloud of mascarpone cream over your cheesecake, then dust generously with cocoa powder right before serving for that true tiramisu look and taste.
How to Serve Tiramisu Cheesecake
Garnishes
A generous dusting of cocoa powder is classic, but why stop there? Try shaving a little dark chocolate on top, add espresso beans for a pretty accent, or even swirl a bit of chocolate sauce over each slice. A few delicate curls of white or bittersweet chocolate can also make every piece look positively bakery-worthy.
Side Dishes
Because Tiramisu Cheesecake is so rich and flavorful, you’ll want simple sidekicks. Serve each slice with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a bright, tart contrast. A small glass of cold milk or a short pour of amaretto can complement the flavors without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve individual slices topped with a piped rosette of mascarpone cream and a coffee bean. Alternatively, try cutting the whole cheesecake into elegant squares, perfect for a dessert buffet. For parties, layer cubes of cheesecake into glasses with extra espresso-soaked ladyfingers for a dramatic parfait twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the Tiramisu Cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container before refrigerating. It will stay creamy and delicious for up to 5 days—though it rarely lasts that long in my house!
Freezing
Absolutely! You can freeze either the whole cheesecake or individual slices. Wrap in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, add the mascarpone topping and cocoa powder after thawing.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so there’s no need to reheat it. If you do want to take the chill off after freezing, just let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the texture to soften and flavors to bloom.
FAQs
Can I make Tiramisu Cheesecake without coffee liqueur?
Absolutely—you can simply skip the liqueur. The coffee or espresso will still give your Tiramisu Cheesecake that iconic flavor, and it’ll be perfectly family-friendly.
Why do I need to let the cheesecake cool in the oven?
Cooling the cheesecake gradually helps prevent cracks and keeps the filling creamy. That hour in the turned-off oven allows the filling to settle gently, giving you picture-perfect slices.
Can I use chocolate graham crackers instead of plain?
Definitely! Chocolate graham crackers will give your Tiramisu Cheesecake a delicious cocoa undertone and make it even more decadent.
Is it okay to use instant coffee instead of brewed espresso?
Yes, instant espresso powder works in a pinch—just dissolve a teaspoon in half a cup of hot water. The flavor will still be robust and “espresso-like.”
How long should I chill Tiramisu Cheesecake before serving?
You’ll want at least 4 hours in the fridge, but overnight chilling is ideal. The extra time gives the flavors a chance to meld and makes slicing much easier.
Final Thoughts
If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that will wow everyone at the table, look no further than this unforgettable Tiramisu Cheesecake. Each forkful is a luscious, coffee-kissed celebration of the very best parts of two iconic sweets. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself making this treat again and again—once you taste it, there’s simply no going back!
Print
Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 6 hours
- Yield: 12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the best of two worlds with this decadent Tiramisu Cheesecake recipe. Creamy cheesecake meets the rich flavors of traditional tiramisu, creating a delightful fusion dessert that will impress any crowd.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup melted butter
Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Tiramisu Layer:
- 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 12 ladyfinger cookies, broken into pieces
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder for dusting
Topping:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a springform pan and bake.
- Prepare cheesecake filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar, add sour cream, eggs, flour, and vanilla. Pour half over crust.
- Layer tiramisu ingredients: Dip ladyfingers in coffee mixture, layer over batter. Pour remaining batter on top.
- Bake and cool: Bake until set, then cool in the oven. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Make topping: Beat cream and sugar, fold in mascarpone. Spread over cheesecake and dust with cocoa.
Notes
- For a stronger coffee flavor, add instant espresso powder to the batter.
- Cheesecake can be made up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated.
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