If you have a soft spot for creamy, coffee-infused desserts that feel like a warm hug, then this Tiramisu Cake with Coffee Rum Syrup and Mascarpone Frosting Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine layers of tender, moist cake soaked generously in a coffee rum syrup, embraced by a luscious mascarpone frosting that’s light, yet decadently rich. Each bite bursts with classic tiramisu flavors, but in a stunning cake form that’s perfect for celebrations or whenever you need a slice of pure joy. Trust me, this recipe transforms a beloved dessert into an unforgettable cake experience you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an organized layout of baking ingredients on a white marbled surface. Starting from the top left, there is a carton with six brown and beige eggs side by side; next to it are salt and vanilla extract bottles. Below these are small glass bowls filled with brown spice powder and white powder. To the right is a large white bowl filled with white sugar. In the center, there is a square glass bowl full of cocoa powder. Below it to the left is a partially unwrapped block of butter placed on wax paper. Next to that are two containers of mascarpone cheese stacked on top of each other. A small white bowl filled with powdered sugar is placed slightly below. On the bottom right side, a round white bowl of flour sits next to a bottle of dark rum. Several glass measuring cups with milk, cream, and vegetable oil fill the remaining spaces around the ingredients. The whole setup is neat and clean, with all items clearly visible, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Tiramisu Cake with Coffee Rum Syrup and Mascarpone Frosting Recipe plays a vital role, combining simplicity and quality to deliver incredible depth of flavor, luscious texture, and that signature creamy look. Here’s what you’ll gather before diving in:

Egg yolks: Provide richness and are the base for the zabaglione, adding silky texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and syrup, balancing the coffee’s bitter notes.
Table salt: Enhances all flavors and keeps the sweetness from becoming cloying.
Rum: Brings warmth and that iconic tiramisu boozy touch, infusing both cake and syrup.
Vanilla extract: Adds a floral sweetness that softens coffee’s sharpness beautifully.
Unsalted butter: Gives the cake tenderness and a rich mouthfeel without overshadowing other flavors.
Neutral cooking oil: Keeps the cake moist and light, making it irresistibly tender.
All-purpose flour: The foundation for the cake’s structure, delicate yet sturdy enough to hold layers.
Baking powder: Leavens the cake, ensuring it rises perfectly soft and fluffy.
Milk: Adds moisture and helps blend ingredients smoothly for an even crumb.
Egg whites: Whipped to stiff peaks, they lighten the cake batter for an airy texture.
Coffee: The star flavor component that soaks into the layers, giving the cake its signature bitter-sweet punch.
Heavy cream: Whipped into the frosting to create that light, dreamy mascarpone blend.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting delicately without grit, perfect for smooth consistency.
Mascarpone cheese: The creamy heart of the frosting — smooth, tangy, and utterly luscious.
Natural cocoa powder: For dusting the finished cake, adding that classic tiramisu finish and a hint of bittersweet chocolate flavor.

How to Make Tiramisu Cake with Coffee Rum Syrup and Mascarpone Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Zabaglione

Start by lovingly creating the zabaglione, a custard-like base that infuses this cake with that silky mascarpone richness you dream of. Using a double boiler keeps everything gentle and smooth as you whisk egg yolks with sugar, salt, rum, and vanilla until it thickens and becomes luscious. This step is a little meditation, building flavor and texture that will set your Tiramisu Cake with Coffee Rum Syrup and Mascarpone Frosting Recipe apart from anything store-bought.

Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers

Next up, time to make the tender cake layers! Beat the butter until creamy, then blend in oil, sugar, and vanilla for a moist, flavorful batter. The clever trick here is folding whipped egg whites gently into the mix, which keeps each layer light as air. Baking every layer in perfect 8-inch pans ensures even thickness, and once cooled, they’re primed for soaking in the luscious syrup that follows.

Step 3: Make the Coffee Rum Syrup

This is where the magic happens — a simple, aromatic syrup made of brewed coffee, sugar, and rum. Warm the coffee with sugar until dissolved, then stir in the rum off heat so it stays bright and fragrant. This syrup is the soul of your tiramisu cake, soaking directly into layers and adding moistness as well as that addictive coffee kick.

Step 4: Whip Up the Mascarpone Frosting

The frosting brings it all home: softened mascarpone cheese folded gently with chilled zabaglione, powdered sugar, and whipped heavy cream for a frosting that is both creamy and airy. The key is a gentle hand so the mixture stays smooth and avoids curdling. This frosting isn’t just a topping — it’s what makes the cake feel like a dreamy tiramisu experience with every bite.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Now for the fun part—layering! Begin with the first cake round, poke holes using a fork, and generously brush on the coffee rum syrup to soak in. Spread a thick layer of mascarpone frosting, then repeat for the next two layers. Finish by smoothing a semi-naked frosting layer on the sides and decorating the top with frosting dollops. A delicate dusting of natural cocoa powder over the top gives your Tiramisu Cake with Coffee Rum Syrup and Mascarpone Frosting Recipe that iconic final flourish.

How to Serve Tiramisu Cake with Coffee Rum Syrup and Mascarpone Frosting Recipe

A slice of light cream-colored layered cake sits on a white patterned plate with a rope-like edge, resting on a red cloth over a white marbled surface. The cake has four layers of soft, pale yellow sponge separated by creamy white frosting layers. The outside edge has a thick swirl of cream topped with a dusting of brown powder, likely cinnamon or cocoa. In the blurry background, a full cake with similar cream and sponge layers and brown powder on top is visible, along with a gold utensil at the bottom left. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For that picture-perfect presentation, a dusting of cocoa powder is classic, but feel free to sprinkle shaved dark chocolate or coffee beans on top for extra drama. A few fresh mint leaves or edible flowers can brighten the plate with a fresh pop of color and subtle fragrance.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with light accompaniments like fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. A small espresso on the side complements the coffee notes in the cake and elevates the indulgence to a full sensory experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this tiramisu cake in elegant individual clear glass trifle cups for a sophisticated look that shows off the gorgeous layers. You could also cut it into petite squares and decorate each with a tiny dollop of frosting and a dusting of cocoa for a crowd-pleasing dessert table centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once assembled, cover your cake tightly with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, giving you plenty of time to savor every delightful morsel of this Tiramisu Cake with Coffee Rum Syrup and Mascarpone Frosting Recipe.

Freezing

This cake freezes well if you want to plan ahead. Wrap it securely in several layers of plastic wrap, then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator overnight before serving to maintain the frosting’s creamy texture perfectly.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled, delicate dessert, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before slicing to bring out the full flavor and soften the frosting without losing its structure.

FAQs

Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee for the syrup?

Yes! Instant coffee works well if you don’t have brewed coffee on hand. Just dissolve the instant coffee granules with hot water and then proceed with making the syrup. It won’t compromise the rich coffee flavor you want in this recipe.

What if I don’t have mascarpone cheese?

Mascarpone is key for the authentic creamy texture, but if unavailable, you can substitute a combination of cream cheese and heavy cream whipped together. Keep in mind, the flavor will be a bit tangier and less smooth, but still delicious.

How important is the rum in this recipe?

Rum adds signature depth and warmth to both the syrup and zabaglione. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute rum with brewed coffee or a coffee-flavored syrup, though the flavor profile will be somewhat different.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely, but you’ll need a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum or another binder. The texture might be a touch different, but with proper folding and gentle mixing, it’s possible!

How do I know when the zabaglione is done cooking?

You’ll know it’s ready when it thickens to a pudding-like consistency and reaches about 160°F (71°C) to ensure the eggs are safely cooked. The mixture should be smooth and coat the back of a spoon without graininess.

Final Thoughts

This Tiramisu Cake with Coffee Rum Syrup and Mascarpone Frosting Recipe is truly a celebration of classic flavors reinvented as a stunning cake. It’s the perfect dessert to wow guests or treat yourself on a cozy evening. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll be hooked on the interplay of moist coffee-soaked layers and rich, airy mascarpone frosting—so go ahead and bake this beauty, because it absolutely deserves a spot in your recipe collection!