Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tiramisu Cheesecake is a wonderful fusion of two Italian favorites, offering the best of both worlds. The rich cheesecake is balanced by the coffee-soaked ladyfingers and the creamy mascarpone topping, making every bite an indulgent experience. This dessert is perfect for those who love tiramisu but want to try it in a new and exciting form.
Ingredients
For the Coffee Mixture:
- Instant espresso or strong brewed coffee
- Sugar
- Coffee-flavored liqueur (optional)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- Cream cheese
- Sugar
- Cornstarch
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Heavy cream
For the Tiramisu Layer:
- Heavy cream
- Mascarpone cheese
- Sugar
- Vanilla extract
For the Assembly:
- Ladyfingers
- Cocoa powder or chocolate curls for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Coffee Mixture: Dissolve instant espresso in water, then add sugar and coffee liqueur (if using). Bring to a boil, then simmer for 3 minutes.
- Prepare the Cheesecake: Beat cream cheese, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla, followed by the heavy cream. Bake in a water bath for 1 hour and 10 minutes, then cool.
- Top with Ladyfingers: After cooling, dip ladyfingers in the coffee mixture and layer them on top of the cheesecake.
- Make the Tiramisu Layer: Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form, then fold in mascarpone cheese and sugar. Spread the mascarpone mixture over the cheesecake.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cheesecake for several hours or overnight. Before serving, garnish with cocoa powder or chocolate curls.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe makes 12 slices.
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours to overnight
- Total Time: 5 hours 40 minutes
Variations
- Flavor Variations: Add a hint of cinnamon or chocolate to the mascarpone cream for a unique twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep the tiramisu cheesecake covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This cheesecake is best served chilled and does not need reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this cheesecake without a water bath?
While a water bath ensures even baking and prevents cracks, you can skip it if you turn off the oven early and let the cheesecake cool slowly.
Can I use store-bought mascarpone cheese?
Yes, store-bought mascarpone will work perfectly for the tiramisu layer.
How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
Ensure the cheesecake is baked at a low temperature and allowed to cool slowly. A water bath helps with even baking and prevents cracks.
Can I use a different type of coffee?
You can substitute espresso with brewed coffee or any strong coffee you prefer.
Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze it before adding the tiramisu layer for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw in the fridge overnight before adding the topping.
How long should I refrigerate the cheesecake before serving?
The cheesecake should be refrigerated for at least 4 hours, but overnight refrigeration will yield the best results.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake is perfect for making a day or two ahead of time, which allows the flavors to fully develop.
How do I garnish the cheesecake?
You can garnish with cocoa powder, chocolate curls, or even a dusting of grated chocolate for added elegance.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but low-fat cream cheese can be substituted for a lighter version.
Can I add more layers to this cheesecake?
You can experiment by adding a layer of chocolate ganache or whipped cream for extra richness.
Conclusion
Tiramisu Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for coffee and cheesecake lovers alike. This delicious fusion brings the best of tiramisu’s coffee flavors and cheesecake’s creamy texture into one stunning dessert. Perfect for any occasion, this cheesecake will become a favorite at your next dinner party or holiday gathering.
Print
Tiramisu Cheesecake
- Total Time: 5 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tiramisu Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the bold coffee flavors of tiramisu. With a layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, a smooth cheesecake base, and a mascarpone cream topping, this decadent dessert is perfect for impressing guests at any special occasion or dinner party.
Ingredients
For the Coffee Mixture:
1 cup instant espresso or strong brewed coffee
¼ cup sugar
2 tablespoons coffee-flavored liqueur (optional)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy cream
For the Tiramisu Layer:
1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces mascarpone cheese
¼ cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Assembly:
24 ladyfingers
Cocoa powder or chocolate curls for garnish
Instructions
-
Prepare the Coffee Mixture: Dissolve the instant espresso in water, add sugar and coffee liqueur (if using). Bring to a boil, then simmer for 3 minutes. Set aside to cool.
-
Prepare the Cheesecake: Beat cream cheese, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla, followed by heavy cream. Mix until smooth and well-combined. Pour into a springform pan and bake in a water bath at 325°F for 1 hour and 10 minutes, then cool.
-
Top with Ladyfingers: After the cheesecake has cooled, dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, then layer them on top of the cheesecake.
-
Make the Tiramisu Layer: Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then fold in mascarpone cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Spread this mascarpone mixture over the cheesecake.
-
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight. Before serving, garnish with cocoa powder or chocolate curls.
Notes
Flavor Variations: Add cinnamon or cocoa powder to the mascarpone cream for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
