If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the creamy luxury of cheesecake with the classic coffee-soaked flavors of Italy, this Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe will absolutely blow your mind. It’s an irresistible dessert that brings together rich cream cheese and mascarpone, a luscious coffee-soaked ladyfinger layer, and a delicate cocoa-infused crust. Every bite feels like a celebration of smooth textures and deep, warm flavors that comfort and delight, making it a must-make dessert for gatherings or whenever you crave something truly spectacular.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a round, layered tiramisu cake on a white marble surface. The bottom layer is a thin, crumbly brown crust that holds the dessert together. Above it is a thick, creamy white layer, followed by a soaked light beige layer of sponge fingers. Another thick creamy white layer sits on top, covered with a dusting of dark brown cocoa powder spread unevenly with soft swirls. In the background, there is a clear glass with dark coffee and a slice of the same tiramisu on a white plate. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe calls for simple yet wonderfully harmonious ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in crafting the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and that irresistible coffee-kissed aroma we all love.

250 g graham or Digestive cookies: These form the crunchy base that perfectly supports the creamy layers.
2 tablespoons Dutch processed unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a deep, chocolatey note to the crust for richness.
75 g butter: Melts into the cookie crumbs to bind everything together into a sturdy crust.
250 ml strong black coffee: The bold coffee flavor is essential for soaking the ladyfingers and infusing the dessert.
1 tablespoon Amaretto (optional): Adds a subtle almond warmth that elevates the tiramisu character.
600 g cream cheese: Provides the smooth, creamy base of the cheesecake filling.
165 g mascarpone cheese: A silky Italian cheese that perfectly complements the cream cheese for richness.
150 g powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling delicately without overpowering.
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla paste: Infuses the cheesecake with warm, fragrant notes.
360 g heavy cream (380 ml): Whipped into the filling for lightness and fluffy texture.
½ pack ladyfingers: Light and absorbent, these soak up coffee beautifully, adding texture and flavor.
230 g heavy cream (250 ml) for topping: Creates a luscious whipped cream topping.
2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for topping): Sweetens the whipped cream for a perfect finish.
½ teaspoon vanilla paste (for topping): Adds flavor depth to the topping.
Dutch processed unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting): Dust over the top as a final elegant touch.

How to Make Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Crust

Start by brewing a strong black coffee and mixing in Amaretto if you like that extra almond hint. Let it cool at room temperature while you prepare the crust. Blend the graham or digestive cookies with cocoa powder until you get fine, sandy crumbs. Melt the butter and add it to the mixture, pulsing until everything is combined and moist. Press this crumbly mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan lined with parchment paper, creating an even, solid base. Pop it in the fridge to chill while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Filling

Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with a paddle attachment, cream the cream cheese on low speed for about a minute to get it smooth. Add mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla paste, then mix on medium-high until silky and uniform. Remember to scrape down the sides to keep everything well incorporated. Next, slowly add the heavy cream and whip until stiff peaks form. This creates a luxuriously light yet creamy filling for your cheesecake.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust and smooth it out with an offset spatula. Quickly dip ladyfingers into the cooled coffee — just once per side to avoid sogginess — and arrange them neatly over the filling in straight rows. You may need to cut some to fit perfectly. Pour the rest of the filling over the ladyfingers and level the top. Cover the pan with cling film and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld and the filling set.

Step 4: Decorate and Chill

Once chilled and set, transfer the cheesecake to a serving plate. Whip the remaining heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla paste until stiff peaks form. Spread this whipped topping evenly over the cheesecake and return it to the fridge. Just before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder for that classic tiramisu look. For clean slices, warm your knife under hot water and dry it before cutting.

How to Serve Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe

A round cake with thick dark brown cocoa crust at the bottom and sides forming the base and edges, topped with a thick smooth white cream layer, followed by a middle layer of light beige soft biscuit visible inside, then another thick white cream layer on top, finished with a dusting of fine dark brown cocoa powder spread unevenly in swirls on the top. One slice is cut and slightly pulled out, showing the clear layers inside. The cake sits on a white plate on a white marbled surface, with a glass of dark coffee and stacked white plates with forks blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe truly shine on the table, classic cocoa powder dusting is a must. For an extra touch, sprinkle a few shaved dark chocolate curls or finely chopped toasted almonds on top. Fresh mint leaves can add a lovely pop of color and a subtle freshness.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla gelato or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for anyone wanting an extra creamy indulgence. A small cup of espresso or a coffee-based cocktail will complement the coffee flavors perfectly, rounding the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive occasion, serve individual portions in clear glass jars, layering crust, filling, and ladyfingers for a stunning effect. You can also turn this cheesecake into mini parfaits or decorate each slice with edible flowers to impress guests with edible art.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Tiramisu Cheesecake keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep it tightly covered with cling film or in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.

Freezing

You can freeze this cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving to preserve its delicate texture and flavors.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed cold, so reheating is not recommended. If you wish to soften it slightly, letting it rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving works beautifully without compromising taste or texture.

FAQs

Can I make the Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe without alcohol?

Absolutely! The Amaretto is optional and primarily adds a subtle almond flavor. Your cheesecake will still taste incredible without it, with the coffee flavor shining through beautifully.

What kind of coffee works best for this recipe?

Use a freshly brewed, strong black coffee for the richest flavor. Espresso works great, but even a good quality brewed coffee will add the perfect depth and bitterness.

Can I substitute the ladyfingers with something else?

Ladyfingers are traditional for tiramisu and their airy texture soaks up coffee beautifully. If you cannot find them, sponge cake slices can work as an alternative, though texture and absorption might vary.

How do I prevent the ladyfingers from making the cheesecake soggy?

Dip the ladyfingers briefly just once on each side in the coffee. Over-soaking causes them to release too much liquid and turn soggy, which can affect the cheesecake’s structure.

Can I prepare this cheesecake vegan or dairy-free?

This recipe relies heavily on dairy for its creamy texture, but you can experiment with vegan cream cheeses, plant-based heavy cream, and dairy-free cookies. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will be different, but it can still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

Trying this Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe is like giving yourself a little gift of pure joy and indulgence. It’s the perfect dessert to impress your loved ones or simply savor on a quiet night in. Creamy, coffee-flavored, and delightfully textured, it’s a recipe you’ll want to come back to again and again. So go ahead, dive into this delicious adventure!