Name: Tiramisu Cake Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 large eggs (at room temperature); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 cup cake flour (sifted); 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled); 1 1/2 cups hot water; 2 1/2 tablespoons instant espresso powder; 2 1/2 tablespoons brandy; 2 1/2 teaspoons powdered sugar; 4 large egg yolks; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup dry Marsala wine; 16 ounces mascarpone cheese (cold); 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold); 6 ounces cream cheese (brick style); 3/4 cup powdered sugar; 2 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream (cold); 2 teaspoons cocoa powder (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 37 reviews

If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that marries delicate cake layers with rich, creamy mascarpone and the irresistible kick of espresso, then this Tiramisu Cake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Each bite offers a heavenly balance of textures and flavors—from the moist genoise sponge soaked in espresso and brandy syrup to the luscious mascarpone filling and airy whipped cream frosting, all crowned with a dusting of cocoa. This recipe takes the classic Italian tiramisu and transforms it into an elegant, sliceable cake that’s perfect for celebrations or any time you want to treat yourself and your guests to something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large clear glass bowl filled with a smooth, creamy light yellow batter that has soft, swirling textures on the surface. A golden whisk is partly submerged in the batter, showing creamy traces on its wires. The bowl sits on a dark textured surface with a light beige cloth featuring black stripes casually placed next to it. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Trust me, this Tiramisu Cake Recipe shines because of the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each component plays an essential role in building the complex flavors and textures that make this cake an unforgettable dessert experience.

6 large eggs (room temperature): Eggs are the base of the genoise, giving it structure, volume, and a delicate crumb.
1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create the luscious texture in both the cake and fillings.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cake with warm, aromatic notes.
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and deepens flavor complexity.
1 cup cake flour (sifted): Provides the perfect lightness needed for the genoise sponge layers.
1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled): Adds richness and tenderness to the cake layers.
1 1/2 cups hot water: Used to dissolve espresso powder and make the soaking syrup.
2 1/2 tablespoons instant espresso powder: Imparts that signature robust coffee flavor that tiramisu is famous for.
2 1/2 tablespoons brandy: Infuses the espresso syrup with a warm, slightly boozy depth.
2 1/2 teaspoons powdered sugar: Sweetens the espresso syrup gently while dissolving quickly.
4 large egg yolks: The creamy base for the mascarpone filling that gives luxurious texture.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone filling while allowing the cheese to shine.
1/3 cup dry Marsala wine: A classic flavor enhancer for the mascarpone custard layer.
16 ounces mascarpone cheese (cold): The star of the filling, creamy and rich with a subtle tang.
1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold): Folded into the mascarpone mixture for lightness and silkiness.
6 ounces cream cheese (brick): Adds body and tang to the whipped cream frosting finishing the cake.
3/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting without grittiness.
2 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream (cold): Whipped to stiff peaks to make the final frosting light but stable.
2 teaspoons cocoa powder (for garnish): Sprinkled on top to give a visually stunning and flavorful finish.

How to Make Tiramisu Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Genoise Cake Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and preparing three 6-inch cake pans—spray them with non-stick spray, dust with flour, and line with parchment rounds. Whip the eggs, sugar, vanilla, and salt until the mixture triples in volume. This aeration is what creates the glorious lightness in your cake. Next, sift half of the cake flour and fold it gently into the eggs, followed by half the melted butter. Repeat with the remaining flour and butter. Pour the batter evenly into your pans and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes until the cakes are golden, springy, and a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool completely before moving on.

Step 2: Make the Espresso Soaking Syrup

While the cakes bake and cool, whisk together hot water, instant espresso powder, brandy, and powdered sugar to create a luxurious soaking syrup. This syrup will infuse the genoise layers with that unmistakable coffee warmth and subtle sweetness that’s essential to the Tiramisu Cake Recipe.

Step 3: Create the Mascarpone Filling

Set a medium bowl over simmering water and whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and Marsala wine until pale and doubled in volume. This slow cooking helps to create a rich, custard-like base. Remove from heat and gently fold in the mascarpone cheese. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks and carefully fold it into the mascarpone mixture to maintain that perfect light, creamy texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Place one layer of cooled genoise at the bottom of an 8-inch springform pan with tall sides. Generously soak the cake with one-third of the espresso syrup to keep it moist and flavorful. Spread half of the mascarpone filling evenly over the first layer. Repeat the process: add the second cake layer, soak it with espresso mixture, and top with the remaining mascarpone filling. Finish with the final genoise layer and soak once more with syrup.

Step 5: Prepare and Apply the Whipped Cream Frosting

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Slowly drizzle in the heavy cream on a lower mixer speed, then whip at medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Frost the assembled cake evenly, then dust the top with cocoa powder. For an extra touch, add dollops of your whipped cream frosting on top, turning this Tiramisu Cake Recipe into a showstopper worthy of any occasion.

How to Serve Tiramisu Cake Recipe

A round layered cake with four visible layers, alternating light cream and darker cake layers, topped with a smooth cream layer dusted with cocoa powder. One slice is removed, showing the neat layers. On top of the cake, there are multiple dollops of white cream, varying in size, and also dusted lightly with cocoa powder, arranged around one side of the cake’s edge. The cake sits on a wooden cake stand set on a dark surface with a striped cloth nearby. Two black plates hold slices of the same cake, with shiny forks placed beside them on the dark surface and a light-colored cloth underneath one plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A dusting of cocoa powder is classic, but feel free to add chocolate shavings, a sprinkle of finely chopped espresso beans, or even fresh raspberries for a pop of color and tartness. These simple garnishes make each slice look as delightful as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a light fruit salad to balance its richness. If you’re serving coffee alongside your Tiramisu Cake Recipe, try something smooth and mild like a latte or a sweet dessert wine like Vin Santo to complement the flavors without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve individual slices layered on dessert plates with a drizzle of chocolate or espresso sauce around. Alternatively, try creating mini tiramisu cakes in jars for a charming, portable treat that’s perfect for parties or picnics.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because this cake relies on fresh cream and mascarpone, store leftover slices tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days without losing its delicate texture or flavor.

Freezing

Freezing tiramisu cake can be tricky since the whipped cream and mascarpone are delicate. If you must freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place them in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes if you find it too cold straight from the fridge, to fully enjoy the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of cake flour?

While regular all-purpose flour can be substituted, cake flour’s lower protein content creates a lighter and more tender genoise, which is ideal for this recipe. If you use all-purpose, try sifting it well and possibly removing a tablespoon or two to maintain a lighter texture.

Is it necessary to use raw egg yolks in the mascarpone filling?

The egg yolks are gently cooked over simmering water to create a safe, thick custard base. This step is important both for texture and safety, so avoid skipping it. If you prefer, you can use pasteurized eggs for extra peace of mind.

Can I replace the brandy and Marsala wine with something else?

Yes! If you want a non-alcoholic version, use an equal amount of brewed espresso or a flavored coffee syrup. For the Marsala, a vanilla extract or almond extract can be delicious alternatives, just use sparingly to avoid overpowering flavors.

Can I make this cake in a larger pan?

Absolutely. If you don’t have three 6-inch pans, you can bake in larger pans and adjust the layering accordingly. Just watch the baking time closely since thicker cakes may require longer baking.

How long should I chill the cake before serving?

For the best flavor and set texture, chill the assembled tiramisu cake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. This resting period allows the layers to meld beautifully and ensures a smooth, creamy finish with every bite.

Final Thoughts

I can’t encourage you enough to dive into this Tiramisu Cake Recipe. It’s a wonderful way to elevate a beloved dessert into something that’s both elegant and approachable in your own kitchen. Once you make it, you’ll find that the creamy mascarpone filling, coffee-soaked genoise layers, and fluffy frosting come together in a dream-worthy harmony. Give it a try, share with friends, and watch as it quickly becomes a cherished favorite!