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Chocolate Tiramisu Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 84 reviews
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

This easy Chocolate Tiramisu is a decadent twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining rich chocolate ganache, creamy mascarpone, and espresso-soaked ladyfingers. Perfect for chocolate lovers, this no-bake layered dessert requires minimal preparation and yields a smooth, luscious finish ideal for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale

Ganache

  • 180g heavy cream (3/4 cup)
  • 160g dark or semi sweet chocolate

Mascarpone Cream

  • 2 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled (600g)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (110g)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 8 to 12 ounces good quality mascarpone cheese, slightly cooler than room temperature (225-340g)

Assembly

  • ~30-35 ladyfingers
  • 1 1/2 cups espresso or strong coffee, cooled
  • 1 tbsp cocoa powder, plus more for dusting

Instructions

  1. Make the Ganache: Bring 180g of heavy cream to a boil in a saucepan. Immediately pour the hot cream over 160g chopped dark or semi-sweet chocolate placed in a heat-safe bowl. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir gently until the chocolate fully melts and forms a smooth, shiny ganache.
  2. Prepare the Mascarpone Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the chilled 2 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream with 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until the cream thickens and forms soft peaks. Gradually add 8 to 12 ounces of mascarpone cheese in 2-3 additions, mixing on low speed until well combined and smooth. Adjust mascarpone quantity for desired thickness and flavor.
  3. Assemble the Tiramisu: Mix 1 tablespoon cocoa powder into the cooled espresso or strong coffee and pour into a deep plate. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso for about 2 seconds per side, ensuring they don’t get soggy, and arrange them tightly in the bottom of a 9×9 inch pan or dish to form the first layer.
  4. Add Cream Layers: Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers using an offset spatula. Then pour over half of the ganache, spreading it gently to cover the cream layer.
  5. Create Second Layer: Repeat the process by dipping and arranging another layer of ladyfingers soaked in espresso. Spread the remaining mascarpone cream over this second layer, followed by the remaining ganache.
  6. Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate the assembled tiramisu for at least 4 hours to allow flavors to meld and dessert to set, although overnight refrigeration is preferred for best results.
  7. Serve: Just before serving, dust the top generously with additional cocoa powder for an elegant finish.

Notes

  • Use good quality espresso or very strong brewed coffee for the best flavor.
  • Do not over-soak the ladyfingers to prevent sogginess; a quick dip of about 2 seconds per side is ideal.
  • Mascarpone should be slightly cooler than room temperature to blend smoothly.
  • The dessert improves in flavor and texture if chilled overnight.
  • This recipe can be prepared a day ahead, making it great for entertaining.