If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that captures the cozy warmth of the holidays with a twist of Italian charm, then this Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines the spicy allure of gingerbread cookies with the luscious creaminess of classic tiramisu, creating a dessert that is both familiar and delightfully unexpected. Rich mascarpone layered with softly spiced whipped cream and soaked gingerbread will make every bite melt perfectly in your mouth. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or simply craving a comforting treat, this Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: from the robust coffee that adds depth, to the spices that bring warmth and holiday cheer, and the mascarpone that delivers that signature creamy texture. These straightforward ingredients come together to create a dessert that looks as stunning as it tastes.
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee: Use freshly brewed for a rich and bold flavor that perfectly soaks the gingerbread.
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur: Adds a subtle kick and enhances the coffee notes beautifully.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Whipped to soft peaks for a light, airy texture in the cream layers.
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese: The cornerstone of any tiramisu, lending a luxurious creaminess.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone mixture just right without overpowering it.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a delicate warmth and ties all the flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger: A star spice in this recipe, giving that classic gingerbread zing.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds comforting spice that complements the ginger perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Just a pinch to deepen the festive spice notes.
- 24 gingerbread cookies: These act as the base, soaked with coffee liqueur to soften and meld with the cream.
- Cocoa powder for dusting: The finishing touch for an elegant look and a hint of chocolate bitterness.
How to Make Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Brew and Cool the Coffee Mixture
Start by brewing a strong cup of coffee, then blend it with coffee liqueur to amplify the rich flavors. Allow this mixture to cool completely, since using warm liquid can melt your creamy layers and throw off the texture. This coffee-liqueur combo is what gives the tiramisu that unmistakable coffee aroma and a subtle boozy warmth that pairs perfectly with the spices.
Step 2: Whip the Heavy Cream
Next, whip your heavy cream until it forms soft peaks. This step is crucial for creating a light and fluffy cream that balances the density of the mascarpone. Be sure not to over-whip, as you want a smooth, creamy texture that will fold beautifully into the mascarpone mixture.
Step 3: Prepare the Mascarpone Mixture
In a separate bowl, blend the mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. This blend is where all the festive spice flavors really come together, creating a cozy, aromatic base that is both sweet and warmly spiced. Mixing these ingredients until smooth ensures a silky, flavorful filling.
Step 4: Fold in the Whipped Cream
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined. This technique keeps the texture airy and light, ensuring your tiramisu won’t feel heavy but instead melts softness with every bite. Folding rather than stirring preserves the airiness that makes this dessert so special.
Step 5: Soak and Layer the Gingerbread Cookies
Dunk each gingerbread cookie quickly into the cooled coffee mixture—don’t soak them too long or they’ll become soggy. Layer the soaked cookies in your chosen dish as the first base layer. These cookies absorb the coffee spices beautifully, transforming into a soft yet flavorful foundation for your tiramisu layers.
Step 6: Add the Mascarpone Cream Layer
Spread a generous layer of the mascarpone and whipped cream mixture evenly over the gingerbread layer. This creamy topping contrasts perfectly with the spicy cookie base, adding richness and balancing flavors delightfully.
Step 7: Repeat the Layers
Continue alternating layers of soaked gingerbread cookies and mascarpone cream until you run out of ingredients, making sure to finish with a thick mascarpone layer on top. This layering is key for that classic tiramisu look and texture, letting each bite deliver that perfect harmony of spice, sweetness, and creaminess.
Step 8: Refrigerate to Set
Chill your tiramisu in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. This downtime allows the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften fully, resulting in a creamy, cohesive dessert that slices and serves beautifully.
Step 9: Dust with Cocoa Powder Before Serving
Just before serving, sprinkle a generous dusting of cocoa powder over the top for a classic finish. This subtle bitter note complements the sweetness and spice of the layers beneath, adding a bit of drama and elegance to your Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe.
How to Serve Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your presentation by adding a few festive garnishes like a sprig of fresh mint or a couple of whole gingerbread cookies on the side. You can also sprinkle some finely chopped crystallized ginger or a light dusting of cinnamon for a little extra pep and holiday sparkle.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with robust drinks such as espresso, spiced chai, or even a glass of dessert wine like Vin Santo. If you want to keep it simple, a cup of hot cocoa or mulled cider will echo the warm spices and round out your meal with ease.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more personalized touch, try layering the tiramisu in individual glasses or mason jars. This not only looks charming but makes serving easier at parties or gatherings. You can also drizzle a little caramel or chocolate sauce over each serving to add a delicious twist to your Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your tiramisu will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days, tightly covered to maintain moisture and prevent it from absorbing any unwanted flavors. The layers may continue to meld and get even more flavorful with a little extra time.
Freezing
While tiramisu can be frozen, it’s best to do so before dusting with cocoa powder. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to protect it from freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture and taste.
Reheating
This dessert is traditionally served chilled, so reheating is not recommended. Letting it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving can soften the cold chill without compromising the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gingerbread cookies for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using store-bought gingerbread cookies is a great time-saver and still delivers wonderful flavor. Just make sure the cookies are firm enough to hold up when dipped in coffee without falling apart.
What can I substitute for coffee liqueur if I prefer a non-alcoholic option?
You can simply omit the coffee liqueur and replace it with an equal amount of cooled brewed coffee or a coffee-flavored syrup for a similar taste without the alcohol.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
This version of Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe relies on mascarpone and heavy cream, so it’s not naturally vegan. However, you could experiment with dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and coconut cream to create a dairy-free version, keeping in mind adjustments in texture and flavor.
How spicy is the gingerbread flavor in this tiramisu?
The spices are well balanced to provide a warm, cozy aroma and gentle heat without being overpowering. Adjust the amounts of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves to suit your personal taste for more or less intensity.
Can I prepare this tiramisu completely in advance for a party?
Definitely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to deepen and the texture to perfect itself, making it a stress-free and impressive dessert choice for entertaining.
Final Thoughts
This Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe is one of those rare finds that brings together comfort, elegance, and festive cheer in every bite. It’s ideal for anyone wanting to wow their friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen. I truly hope you give this recipe a try soon — once you do, it might just become your new favorite holiday indulgence.
Print
Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Gingerbread Tiramisu is a festive twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring spiced gingerbread cookies soaked in coffee and coffee liqueur, layered with a creamy mascarpone mixture infused with warming spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter nights, this no-bake dessert marries rich creaminess with the cozy flavors of gingerbread and a hint of cocoa dusting on top.
Ingredients
Liquid Ingredients
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dairy Ingredients
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
Dry Ingredients & Spices
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Cocoa powder for dusting
Other
- 24 gingerbread cookies
Instructions
- Brew Coffee and Prepare Soaking Liquid: Brew 1 cup of strong coffee and mix it with 2 tablespoons of coffee liqueur. Set aside and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
- Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream until soft peaks form, creating a light and airy texture essential for the mascarpone filling.
- Mix Mascarpone and Spices: In a separate bowl, combine 8 ounces of mascarpone cheese with 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves. Stir until smooth and well incorporated.
- Fold in Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined, ensuring the filling remains light and fluffy.
- Dip Gingerbread Cookies: Quickly dip each of the 24 gingerbread cookies into the cooled coffee and liqueur mixture. The cookies should be soaked but not soggy to maintain texture.
- Layer the Dessert: Arrange a layer of the soaked gingerbread cookies in the bottom of a serving dish. Spread a layer of the mascarpone cream mixture evenly over the cookies.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering soaked cookies and mascarpone mixture until all ingredients are used, ensuring the final layer is mascarpone cream.
- Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder to add a decorative touch and a hint of chocolate flavor.
Notes
- Use strong brewed coffee for the best flavor impact. Espresso works well too.
- Dip the gingerbread cookies quickly to prevent them from becoming overly soggy and falling apart.
- Chilling overnight enhances the melding of flavors and improves texture.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the coffee liqueur or substitute it with an equal amount of coffee or a coffee-flavored syrup.
- If you prefer a sweeter dessert, adjust the powdered sugar to taste.
