What is tiramisu cake made of?

Tiramisu cake is made with light sponge cake layers that are soaked in espresso , then layered with a creamy mascarpone filling and topped with cocoa powder or chocolate shavings . Unlike traditional tiramisu, which uses ladyfingers , this version replaces them with sponge cake for a more structured yet airy texture. The key ingredients include: Sponge cake (flour, eggs, sugar, vanilla) Espresso or strong coffee Mascarpone cheese Heavy cream Powdered sugar Cocoa powder for dusting

What is the difference between tiramisu and tiramisu cake?

The main difference lies in the base layers used: Traditional tiramisu is a no-bake dessert that uses coffee-soaked ladyfingers layered with mascarpone cream. Tiramisu cake uses baked sponge cake instead of ladyfingers, making it more structured and sliceable while keeping the same flavors. Both versions feature espresso-soaked layers, mascarpone filling, and cocoa topping , but the texture of tiramisu cake is slightly firmer than the soft, pudding-like consistency of classic tiramisu.

Traditional tiramisu is not considered a classic cake because it does not require baking and is made with layered ladyfingers instead of cake layers. However, tiramisu cake is a baked version that closely resembles a traditional cake in structure while keeping the classic tiramisu flavors.

Can you freeze tiramisu cake?

Yes, tiramisu cake can be frozen , but there are some things to keep in mind: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 month . Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Note: While freezing works well for the sponge cake layers, the mascarpone cream may become slightly grainy after thawing.

What does a tiramisu cake taste like?

Tiramisu cake has a rich, creamy, and slightly bitter-sweet flavor from the combination of espresso, mascarpone, and cocoa. The taste is light yet indulgent , with a balance of coffee depth, creamy sweetness, and a subtle hint of vanilla . The texture is airy yet moist, with the sponge cake absorbing just enough espresso to give a flavorful but not soggy bite. The mascarpone filling adds a smooth, velvety contrast , making each forkful incredibly satisfying.

Does all tiramisu cake have alcohol?

No, not all tiramisu cakes contain alcohol. While some traditional tiramisu recipes include Marsala wine or coffee liqueur , it is completely optional. For an alcohol-free version: Simply use espresso or coffee without any added liqueur. If you want a bit of depth in flavor, add vanilla extract or almond extract to the coffee soak instead. Many homemade and bakery versions of tiramisu cake are made without alcohol, making them suitable for all ages.

Tiramisu Cake Recipe: A Scrumptious & Easy 5-Layer Delight

Description

A scrumptious and easy tiramisu cake with espresso-soaked sponge layers, creamy mascarpone filling, and a cocoa-dusted top. A perfect dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
4 large eggs, room temperature
½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**For the Coffee Mixture:**
1 cup brewed espresso (or strong coffee), cooled
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**For the Mascarpone Cream:**
1 cup mascarpone cheese
1 cup heavy cream, chilled
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**For the Topping:**
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
Dark chocolate shavings (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch round cake pan and line it with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until thick and pale. Add vanilla extract and gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.

4. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 20-22 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.

5. Brew espresso and let it cool. Stir in sugar and vanilla extract.

6. In a large bowl, beat mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

7. Whip heavy cream separately until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the mascarpone mixture.

8. Slice the cooled sponge cake in half. Brush both layers with the espresso mixture.

9. Spread half the mascarpone cream over the bottom layer. Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining mascarpone cream.

10. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

11. Dust with cocoa powder before serving. Garnish with chocolate shavings if desired.

Notes

Avoid over-soaking the cake layers to prevent sogginess.
Use high-quality espresso for the best flavor.
Refrigerate overnight for the best texture and flavor development.
For a caffeine-free version, substitute espresso with hot chocolate or vanilla milk.
Gluten-free and egg-free variations are possible using appropriate substitutes.

Prep Time: 20
Cook Time: 20-22
Category: Dessert, Cake
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian, European

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 of the cake
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 60mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 90mg