Name: Coffee Tiramisu Cake
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 large eggs (264 g), at room temperature; 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar; 1 tsp (4 g) vanilla extract; ¼ tsp (1.5 g) kosher salt; 1 cup (125 g) cake flour, sifted; ¼ cup (56.75 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled; 1½ cups (354.88 g) hot water; 2½ tbsp (12.5 g) instant espresso powder; 2½ tbsp (37.5 g) brandy; 2½ tsp (5 g) powdered sugar Prospre; 4 large egg yolks (72 g); ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar; ⅓ cup (80 g) dry Marsala wine; 16 oz (453.59 g) cold mascarpone cheese; 1 cup (238 g) cold heavy whipping cream; 6 oz (170.1 g) cream cheese (brick-style); ¾ cup (90 g) powdered sugar; 2¼ cups (535.5 g) cold heavy whipping cream; 2 tsp (2 g) cocoa powder (for garnish)

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Coffee Tiramisu Cake is an elegant, decadent twist on the classic Italian dessert. Combining the fluffy texture of a genoise sponge cake with the rich, creamy layers of a traditional tiramisu, this cake is perfect for any special occasion—or simply when you’re craving something spectacular. Soaked in a coffee-brandy syrup and layered with a mascarpone-based filling, this dessert captures the beloved flavors of tiramisu while adding the structure and visual appeal of a layered cake.

This recipe showcases multiple textures: the light and airy sponge, the smooth and velvety mascarpone layer, and a cloud-like whipped cream frosting. It’s finished with a dusting of cocoa powder for a beautiful and bittersweet garnish. Each bite is a blend of sweet, creamy, and subtly bitter notes, creating a balanced dessert that appeals to both coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts. Though it involves several components, the steps are straightforward and well worth the effort. Once assembled, it’s a show-stopper that impresses on both flavor and presentation. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or celebrating a milestone, Coffee Tiramisu Cake offers a luxurious treat that’s both nostalgic and innovative.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tiramisu in Cake Form: All the classic tiramisu flavors reimagined into a show-stopping cake.
Perfect for Celebrations: A sophisticated dessert ideal for holidays, birthdays, and special events.
Balanced Flavor: Not too sweet, with notes of espresso, cocoa, and brandy.
Texture Heaven: Fluffy cake, creamy mascarpone, and light whipped topping make every bite dynamic.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Best served chilled, so you can prepare it in advance.

Ingredients

For the Genoise Cake

Eggs
Granulated sugar
Vanilla extract
Kosher salt
Cake flour
Unsalted butter

For the Espresso Simple Syrup

Hot water
Instant espresso powder
Brandy
Powdered sugar

For the Mascarpone Filling

Egg yolks
Granulated sugar
Dry Marsala wine
Mascarpone cheese
Heavy whipping cream

For the Whipped Cream Frosting

Cream cheese (brick-style)
Powdered sugar
Heavy whipping cream
Cocoa powder (for garnish)

Variations

Alcohol-Free: Omit the brandy and Marsala wine, replacing them with more coffee or a bit of vanilla extract.
Chocolate Addition: Add a layer of shaved chocolate or chocolate ganache between layers.
Individual Servings: Make in ramekins or cupcake molds for single-serve desserts.
Different Liqueurs: Try coffee liqueur, amaretto, or Frangelico for a twist.
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mascarpone filling.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Make the Genoise Cake

Preheat the oven. Beat eggs, sugar, vanilla, and salt until light and tripled in volume. Fold in sifted cake flour gently, then fold in cooled melted butter. Divide the batter into cake pans and bake until golden. Let cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Espresso Syrup

Combine hot water with espresso powder, powdered sugar, and brandy. Stir until dissolved. Let cool.

Step 3: Make the Mascarpone Filling

Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and Marsala over a double boiler until thick. Let cool. Fold in cold mascarpone, then gently fold in whipped cream until smooth and fluffy.

Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream Frosting

Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, then slowly beat in cold cream until soft peaks form.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Slice cake layers if needed. Brush each layer generously with espresso syrup. Spread mascarpone filling between layers. Frost the top and sides with whipped cream frosting.

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

Dust the top with cocoa powder and chill for at least 4 hours before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use room temperature eggs for better volume in the cake.
Sift flour to prevent clumps and maintain a light sponge.
Allow syrup and fillings to cool before using to prevent melting layers.
Chill the mixing bowl before whipping cream for best results.
Let the assembled cake rest overnight for flavors to meld.

How to Serve

Serve chilled for best flavor and texture.
Dust with extra cocoa or add chocolate curls for garnish.
Pair with espresso or dessert wine.
Cut with a hot, clean knife for neat slices.
Serve on a decorative cake stand for presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

This cake is not meant to be reheated. Always serve chilled.

FAQs

1. Can I make the cake layers ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the sponge up to two days ahead. Wrap tightly and store at room temperature.

2. Is it safe to use raw eggs in the filling?

The egg yolks are cooked gently over a double boiler, which makes them safe to eat.

3. Can I substitute cream cheese for mascarpone?

You can, but the flavor and texture will differ. Try blending cream cheese with a bit of heavy cream.

4. How long does the cake need to chill?

At least 4 hours, but overnight is best for flavor development and texture.

5. Can I skip the alcohol?

Yes, use more coffee or a flavored syrup instead.

6. What if I don’t have cake flour?

You can substitute with all-purpose flour mixed with a little cornstarch (about 1 cup minus 2 tablespoons flour + 2 tablespoons cornstarch).

7. Can I use brewed espresso instead of powder?

Yes, but reduce the water accordingly so the syrup isn’t too diluted.

8. How do I prevent the cake from becoming soggy?

Brush, don’t soak. Use just enough syrup to moisten, not drench.

9. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free cake flour blend and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.

10. Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, with the alcohol omitted or replaced by non-alcoholic options.

Conclusion

Coffee Tiramisu Cake is a luxurious dessert that marries the best of classic tiramisu and elegant layer cake. With its espresso-infused sponge, velvety mascarpone cream, and fluffy whipped frosting, this cake is guaranteed to impress guests and delight taste buds. Though it involves a few steps, the end result is well worth the effort, offering a restaurant-quality treat right from your kitchen. Make it ahead, serve it chilled, and enjoy every beautifully balanced bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser.