Christmas Tiramisu
Christmas Tiramisu is a festive twist on the classic Italian dessert that everyone knows and loves. It layers soft, coffee-soaked ladyfingers with creamy mascarpone filling, and this version adds a…
Tip: save now, cook later.Christmas Tiramisu is a festive twist on the classic Italian dessert that everyone knows and loves. It layers soft, coffee-soaked ladyfingers with creamy mascarpone filling, and this version adds a holiday sparkle with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and maybe a touch of peppermint or orange zest. The dusting of cocoa powder on top looks like a snowy finish, making it perfect for a Christmas table.
I love making Christmas Tiramisu because it feels special but isn’t complicated. It’s a crowd-pleaser and often gets everyone asking for seconds. My favorite part is how the flavors mix and mellow as it sits in the fridge overnight, so I always try to prepare it a day before the big meal. It’s like a little gift from me to my family, full of cozy holiday vibes.
One fun tip I like is to add some crushed peppermint candies or a drizzle of chocolate sauce when serving. It adds a playful touch that kids and adults enjoy alike. This tiramisu brings a warm, festive feeling and is a lovely way to wrap up any Christmas dinner or gathering with friends and family.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mascarpone Cheese: This creamy cheese is essential for tiramisu’s smooth texture. If you can’t find it, try mixing cream cheese with a bit of heavy cream to mimic the softness.
Ladyfingers: These light biscuits soak up the coffee well without getting mushy quickly. You could use sponge cake slices if ladyfingers aren’t available, but soak them briefly.
Coffee & Liqueur: Strong brewed coffee sets the base flavor. You can skip the coffee liqueur to keep it non-alcoholic or replace it with flavored extracts like almond or vanilla.
Spices & Orange Zest: Cinnamon and nutmeg add warm holiday notes. Orange zest brightens the mix. If you prefer, try peppermint extract or ground cloves for a different Christmas twist.
How Do You Make Creamy, Fluffy Mascarpone Filling Without It Breaking?
The key to a smooth mascarpone filling is folding whipped cream gently into the mascarpone mixture to keep it airy.
- Make sure mascarpone is room temperature to avoid lumps.
- Whip the cream to soft peaks before folding. Overwhipped cream can become grainy.
- Use a spatula, and fold carefully with a gentle sweeping motion to keep air in.
- Avoid overmixing, which can cause the mixture to split.
Following these tips gives you a light, fluffy filling that holds its shape nicely in the tiramisu layers.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – for whipping cream and combining mascarpone filling; having two helps keep things organized.
- Whisk or electric mixer – makes whipping cream and egg yolk mixture easy and smooth.
- Heatproof bowl – for the double boiler step to gently cook the egg yolks without scrambling.
- Small sieve – perfect for dusting cocoa powder evenly over the top.
- 9×9 inch (or similar) serving dish – holds the layered tiramisu nicely and is easy to refrigerate.
- Spatula – for folding whipped cream into the mascarpone without losing air.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a splash of peppermint extract instead of coffee liqueur for a minty holiday twist.
- Swap orange zest for lemon zest for a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs well with the creamy layers.
- Mix in crushed gingerbread cookies with the ladyfingers for extra spice and crunch.
- Stir a handful of mini chocolate chips into the mascarpone filling for a surprise chocolate bite.
How to Make Christmas Tiramisu?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Creamy Filling:
- 6 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp orange zest (optional for festive flavor)
For The Ladyfinger Layers:
- 30-36 ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 3 tbsp coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa) or rum
For The Topping:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Fresh holly leaves and red berries for decoration (optional)
Time Needed
To prepare Christmas Tiramisu, expect about 25-30 minutes to mix and assemble everything. Then, refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to let it set beautifully and develop rich flavors. Plan ahead to enjoy this festive treat without rush!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Egg Yolks Mixture:
In a medium heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until well blended. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water to create a double boiler. Keep whisking constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes pale, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool just a bit.
2. Make the Mascarpone Cream:
To the cooled egg yolk mixture, add mascarpone cheese, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and orange zest. Whisk until everything is smooth and well combined. Set aside.
3. Whip the Heavy Cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form—this means the cream holds its shape when the whisk is lifted. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, using a spatula and a light hand to keep the filling fluffy and airy.
4. Soak the Ladyfingers:
Mix the cooled coffee with the coffee liqueur in a shallow dish. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for just 1-2 seconds to soak without becoming soggy.
5. Assemble the Layers:
Arrange the dipped ladyfingers in a single layer on the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish (or similar size). Spread half of the creamy mascarpone filling evenly over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, then top with the remaining mascarpone cream.
6. Finish with Cocoa Topping and Chill:
Using a fine sieve, dust the whole top surface generously with cocoa powder for a soft, lovely look. You can pipe cream dollops before dusting for extra texture if you like. Cover and refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 6 hours or overnight, so the flavors marry and the dessert sets perfectly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Just before serving, decorate with fresh holly leaves and bright red berries for a joyful Christmas touch. Slice and enjoy your delicious, festive tiramisu!
Can I Make Christmas Tiramisu Ahead of Time?
Yes! In fact, it’s best to prepare it at least 6 hours to overnight ahead so the flavors meld and the dessert sets nicely. Just cover it tightly and keep refrigerated until serving.
Can I Use Instant Coffee Instead of Brewed Coffee?
Absolutely! Dissolve strong instant coffee granules in hot water and let it cool before dipping the ladyfingers. Just be sure the coffee flavor is rich for the best taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Christmas Tiramisu?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep it covered to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors.
Can I Substitute Alcohol in This Recipe?
Yes! If you prefer to skip alcohol, simply omit the coffee liqueur or rum. You can replace it with an equal amount of brewed coffee or a little vanilla or almond extract for flavor.
