Coffee Tiramisu Cake

If you love the rich, creamy, and coffee-infused flavors of traditional tiramisu but want a cake that’s easier to slice and serve, this Coffee Tiramisu Cake is your new go-to dessert. It combines a moist vanilla cake soaked with strong coffee, layered with a luscious espresso mascarpone frosting that melts in your mouth. This cake captures the essence of tiramisu in a more approachable form, perfect for celebrations, dinner parties, or simply satisfying your coffee dessert cravings.

The texture is light yet indulgent, balancing the airy cake with a silky, rich frosting that delivers the bold taste of espresso without overpowering the sweetness. The addition of cocoa powder dusted on top brings a classic finishing touch, evoking the familiar look and taste of tiramisu. This recipe blends the best of both worlds—cake and tiramisu—offering a delightful twist on a beloved Italian dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Classic Tiramisu Flavors in Cake Form

Enjoy all the traditional tiramisu elements in a simple, layered cake.

2. Moist Cake with Coffee Soak

The vanilla cake soaked in strong coffee ensures every bite is flavorful and tender.

3. Luxurious Espresso Mascarpone Frosting

Creamy and rich with just the right amount of espresso kick.

4. Easy to Slice and Serve

Perfect for parties and gatherings, no spoon needed.

5. Elegant and Impressive Dessert

Makes a beautiful centerpiece that’s sure to impress guests.

this …

Ingredients

Vanilla Cake

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Kosher salt
• Buttermilk
• Vanilla bean paste
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs

Coffee Soak

• Strong coffee, cold

Espresso Mascarpone Frosting

• Mascarpone cheese, cold
• Espresso powder or fine instant coffee
• Powdered sugar, sifted
• Vanilla bean paste
• Salt
• Heavy cream, cold
• Cocoa powder for dusting

Variations

• Chocolate Version: Add cocoa powder to the cake batter for a mocha twist.
• Liqueur Add-In: Mix a tablespoon of coffee liqueur or amaretto into the coffee soak for extra flavor.
• Fruit Garnish: Top with fresh berries for a pop of color and brightness.
• Nutty Crunch: Add toasted almonds or hazelnuts between layers for texture.
• Sugar-Free Option: Substitute sugar with a natural sweetener like erythritol.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare cake pans by greasing and flouring.

Step 2

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 3

In a separate large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla bean paste.

Step 4

Alternate adding flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour, mixing until just combined.

Step 5

Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool completely.

Step 6

Prepare coffee soak by chilling strong coffee. Once cakes are cool, poke holes in the cakes and brush generously with coffee soak.

Step 7

For the frosting, whisk mascarpone, espresso powder, powdered sugar, vanilla paste, and salt until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture.

Step 8

Layer the cake with frosting between layers and on top. Dust with cocoa powder before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
• Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
• Chill the coffee soak well before applying.
• Fold whipped cream gently to maintain frosting fluffiness.
• Use a fine sieve to dust cocoa powder evenly.

How to Serve

Serve this cake chilled or at room temperature. Pair it with a cup of fresh espresso or black coffee to amplify the coffee flavor. Garnish with extra cocoa powder or shaved chocolate for an elegant presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover the cake and refrigerate for up to 3 days to keep it fresh.

Freezing

Freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly for up to 1 month. Frost after thawing.

Reheating

Serve chilled or let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before slicing.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso powder?

Yes, just use finely ground instant coffee for the frosting and strong brewed coffee for soaking.

2. What if I don’t have buttermilk?

Use regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar added and let it sit for 5 minutes.

3. Can I make this cake dairy-free?

You can substitute mascarpone with dairy-free cream cheese and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

4. How long should I soak the cake with coffee?

Brush the coffee on generously but avoid soaking too much to prevent sogginess.

5. Can I prepare this cake a day ahead?

Yes, in fact, chilling overnight improves the flavor as the cake absorbs the coffee.

6. How many layers does this cake have?

Typically two layers, but you can slice the cakes thinner for more layers if desired.

7. Can I add liqueur to the coffee soak?

Yes, coffee liqueur like Kahlúa works wonderfully.

8. What’s the best way to dust cocoa powder?

Use a fine mesh sieve or sifter for an even, delicate dusting.

9. How do I prevent the frosting from becoming runny?

Ensure mascarpone and cream are well chilled and fold gently to keep the texture stable.

10. Can I substitute sugar in the frosting?

Powdered sugar works best for texture, but you can use a powdered sugar alternative if needed.

Conclusion

This Coffee Tiramisu Cake is a stunning dessert that perfectly combines the beloved flavors of tiramisu with the ease and elegance of a layered cake. Its moist coffee-soaked layers paired with a creamy espresso mascarpone frosting make it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a special gathering or indulging in a homemade coffee break, this cake delivers a luxurious and memorable experience.

Print