Description
A rich, creamy Irish coffee–inspired tiramisu with espresso-soaked ladyfingers, silky mascarpone filling, and a cocoa-chocolate finish. Includes a family-safe (alcohol-free) version plus an optional adult twist.
Ingredients
4 egg yolks
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup heavy cream
2 tsp vanilla extract
8 oz mascarpone cheese, room temperature
16 oz espresso, brewed and cooled
8 oz ladyfingers
1/2 cup cocoa powder, sifted
1 tsp instant coffee powder
2 oz milk chocolate, grated or shaved
Alcohol-Free Irish Coffee Dip (recommended)
1/2 cup strong espresso (extra), cooled
2 tbsp sweetened condensed milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Adult Variation (replace alcohol-free dip)
3 oz Irish cream (optional)
Instructions
1. Make the egg base: Whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale. Set over gently simmering water and whisk 3–5 minutes until glossy and slightly warm. Remove and cool.
2. Whip the cream: Whip heavy cream to soft peaks.
3. Make the filling: Whisk mascarpone and vanilla into the cooled egg mixture until smooth. Gently fold in whipped cream.
4. Mix the dip: In a shallow dish, combine 16 oz cooled espresso with the alcohol-free Irish coffee dip (espresso + condensed milk + vanilla). (Optional adult: use Irish cream instead of condensed milk mixture.)
5. Dip the ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture (1–2 seconds per side). Do not soak.
6. Layer: Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers in an 8×8-inch (or similar) dish. Spread half the mascarpone filling over top. Repeat with another layer of ladyfingers and the remaining filling.
7. Chill: Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
8. Finish and serve: Dust generously with sifted cocoa powder, then sprinkle instant coffee powder and shaved milk chocolate. Slice and serve cold.
Notes
Mascarpone tip: Keep mascarpone at room temperature (~70°F) for a smooth, lump-free filling.
Ladyfinger tip: A quick dip prevents soggy layers and helps clean slicing.
Chill time matters: Overnight chilling gives the best structure and flavor.
Family-safe default: Use the alcohol-free Irish coffee dip; the Irish cream option is clearly optional.
Storage: Refrigerate covered up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended for best texture.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/9 of dish)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg