If you have a soft spot for classic Italian desserts and creamy, dreamy cheesecakes, you are going to fall head over heels for this Italian Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe. It magically marries the rich flavors of traditional tiramisu—espresso, mascarpone, and cocoa—with the indulgent creaminess of cheesecake. Each forkful offers a luscious, velvety texture infused with coffee-infused goodness and a hint of chocolate, making it a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for celebrations or just a special treat to brighten any day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Italian Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe lies in its simple but powerful ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, from the crunchy graham cracker crust to the silky mascarpone cream, creating layers of texture and flavor that sing together perfectly.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provide a buttery, crunchy foundation that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust crumbs together while adding richness without overpowering the taste.
- Cream cheese, softened: Adds a smooth and tangy base for the cheesecake’s luxurious filling.
- Mascarpone cheese: The star of tiramisu, this soft cheese delivers authentic Italian creaminess and depth.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling seamlessly without graininess.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to fluffy perfection, it lightens the cheesecake filling into a cloud-like texture.
- Strong brewed espresso, cooled: Imparts that unmistakable coffee kick crucial to tiramisu’s character.
- Coffee liqueur (optional): Boosts the coffee flavor while adding an adult-friendly twist.
- Cocoa powder: Sprinkled on top, it introduces a bittersweet contrast and classic tiramisu look.
- Dark chocolate shavings: A final elegant garnish that adds texture and richness.
How to Make Italian Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter in a medium bowl until every crumb is coated and the mixture looks like wet sand. This simple step creates the perfect buttery, crunchy base that holds your cheesecake together with a delightful texture contrast.
Step 2: Press the Crust into the Pan
Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer. This step is essential for that signature cheesecake foundation that supports the creamy layers above. Pop the crust into the refrigerator while you whip up the filling.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth, creamy, and utterly luscious. This blend is the heart of the cheesecake, combining tangy and sweet notes that melt on your tongue.
Step 4: Whip the Cream and Fold Gently
Whip the heavy cream in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form, then fold it gently into the cheese mixture. This step lightens the filling, transforming it into a fluffy, airy layer that maintains the creamy richness but feels delicate and melt-in-your-mouth perfect.
Step 5: Add the Espresso Mixture to the Crust
Mix cooled espresso with coffee liqueur if using, then brush this flavorful coffee liquid lightly over the chilled graham cracker crust. This coffee soak infuses the crust with essential tiramisu flavor without making it soggy, creating that wonderful coffee kiss under every bite.
Step 6: Assemble the Layers
Pour half of the cheese filling over the espresso-soaked crust, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula. Then dust a light layer of cocoa powder on top—this adds that classic tiramisu look and a hint of bitterness to balance the sweet. Repeat with the remaining cheese filling and another dusting of cocoa powder to complete the look.
Step 7: Chill and Garnish
Refrigerate the entire cheesecake for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to fully set. Just before serving, garnish with dark chocolate shavings for an elegant, chocolatey finish that will wow anyone lucky enough to dig in.
How to Serve Italian Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
For a picture-perfect presentation, dust the top with more cocoa powder or freshly grated dark chocolate just before serving. You can also add a few coffee beans or a sprig of fresh mint to elevate the visual appeal while complementing the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a simple espresso or a glass of dessert wine like Vin Santo. A fresh berry compote or lightly whipped cream on the side also adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness with a pop of brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in clear glasses layered with crumbled crust, creamy filling, and espresso drizzle for a fun twist. Or use a delicate dusting of edible gold powder on top if you want to make the occasion extra special and show-stopping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Italian Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it keeps its fresh flavor and creamy texture for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic make-ahead dessert for busy weeks or gatherings.
Freezing
You can freeze this cheesecake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to maintain its luscious texture without becoming watery or grainy.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled no-bake dessert, reheating is not recommended. Instead, let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to release its full creamy flavor and make slicing easier.
FAQs
Can I make the Italian Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe without coffee liqueur?
Absolutely! The coffee liqueur is optional and just adds an extra depth of flavor for adults. The espresso alone provides plenty of rich coffee taste, so your dessert will still be delicious without it.
What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?
If you don’t have graham crackers, digestive biscuits or even ladyfingers work wonderfully for the crust, lending a slightly different but equally tasty base for your cheesecake.
How long does the cheesecake need to chill?
It’s best to refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours to ensure it sets perfectly and the flavors meld well. For even better results, overnight chilling is ideal.
Is mascarpone cheese necessary for this recipe?
Mascarpone is traditional for tiramisu and adds that distinctive creamy texture and flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, extra cream cheese can be substituted, though the taste and texture might be a bit different.
Can I turn this into individual servings?
Definitely! Use small jars or ramekins and layer the crust, espresso, and cheese mixture for charming individual tiramisu cheesecakes that are perfect for parties or gifts.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe is a perfect marriage of two beloved desserts, easy enough to make at home yet elegant enough to impress anyone at your table. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience that creamy, coffee-kissed bliss that makes every bite unforgettable. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a new favorite to keep in your dessert rotation!
Print
Italian Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 8 to 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Italian Tiramisu Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the classic flavors of tiramisu. Featuring a crisp graham cracker crust soaked lightly in espresso and coffee liqueur, layered with a smooth mascarpone and cream cheese filling, and finished with dustings of cocoa powder and dark chocolate shavings, this no-bake dessert is perfect for coffee lovers seeking an indulgent yet elegant treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Espresso Mixture
- 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
Topping and Garnish
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder, for dusting
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate shavings, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter thoroughly until combined to create the crust base.
- Form the Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to evenly form the crust layer.
- Refrigerate the Crust: Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling, ensuring it firms up properly.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks to create a light and airy texture, then gently fold it into the cheese mixture to maintain the fluffiness.
- Prepare Espresso Mixture: Combine cooled espresso and coffee liqueur (if using) in a small bowl, mixing well for brushing onto the crust.
- Brush the Crust: Lightly brush the espresso mixture over the chilled graham cracker crust to infuse coffee flavor.
- First Layer of Filling: Pour half of the cheese mixture over the soaked crust, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula.
- Cocoa Dusting: Lightly dust the surface with cocoa powder to add a classic tiramisu touch.
- Second Layer of Filling: Pour the remaining cheese mixture over the cocoa-dusted layer and smooth the top again for an even finish.
- Final Cocoa Dusting: Dust the top layer generously with cocoa powder for garnish and flavor.
- Chill the Cheesecake: Refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for at least 4 hours or until fully set to allow flavors to meld and firmness to develop.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, decorate the top with dark chocolate shavings to add texture and enhance the appearance.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly brewed espresso and ensure it is completely cooled before applying to the crust.
- The coffee liqueur is optional but adds a deeper coffee flavor; you can omit it or substitute with a coffee extract if desired.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up well.
- If you don’t have a springform pan, you can use a regular 9-inch cake pan lined with parchment paper for easier removal.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cheese mixture to keep the filling light and airy rather than dense.
