Tiramisu Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Alright, picture this: the heavenly marriage of two all-time favorites-tiramisu, that iconic Italian dessert with its luscious layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream, and coffee cake, the cozy, crumbly treat that pairs perfectly with your morning cup of joe. Now, what if I told you these two delights could come together in one glorious, slice-worthy dessert? Enter the Tiramisu Coffee Cake-a heavenly hybrid that’s equal parts rich, tender, and bursting with coffee and cocoa flavors.

• This cake brings the essence of tiramisu right into your coffee break or brunch table.
• Think moist layers infused with espresso, a creamy mascarpone filling, and a crumbly, buttery streusel topping.
• It’s like your morning coffee and dessert had a love child-and trust me, it’s worth every bite.

So whether you’re a tiramisu fanatic looking for a twist, a coffee cake lover wanting a little flair, or just someone craving something decadent but not fussy, this recipe’s got you covered!

Tiramisu Coffee Cake Recipe

Here’s the big picture of what we’re creating: a tender, moist coffee cake layered with a mascarpone cream reminiscent of tiramisu, lightly soaked with espresso, and finished with a crunchy cocoa streusel topping. It’s rich, but balanced, with that unforgettable espresso punch.

• The base is a buttery, fluffy coffee cake that’s subtly spiced.
• Between the cake layers, a mascarpone filling infused with vanilla and a hint of coffee.
• A coffee-espresso soak to add that signature tiramisu coffee flavor.
• Topped with a crunchy, cocoa-laden streusel for texture and a chocolate hit.
• Finished with a dusting of cocoa powder for that classic tiramisu look.

This recipe is perfect for brunches, dessert tables, or even as a special treat with your afternoon coffee.

Ingredients Needed

Okay, time to gather the magic ingredients that bring this cake to life. Every single one plays a role in the complex flavor and texture profile!

For The Cake

• All-purpose flour – for that tender crumb structure
• Baking powder & baking soda – to give the cake a nice rise and lightness
• Salt – to enhance all the sweet flavors
• Granulated sugar – for sweetness and moisture
• Unsalted butter – the fat that makes the cake rich and buttery
• Eggs – for structure and moisture
• Whole milk or buttermilk – adds moisture and a slight tanginess for balance
• Vanilla extract – for warmth and aroma
• Espresso or very strong brewed coffee – the star flavor of tiramisu here

For The Mascarpone Filling

• Mascarpone cheese – the creamy, dreamy centerpiece
• Heavy cream – to whip and add fluffiness
• Powdered sugar – for gentle sweetness
• Vanilla extract – to deepen the flavor

For The Coffee Soak

• Brewed espresso or strong coffee – to soak the cake layers, imparting that classic tiramisu flavor
• Optional: a splash of coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa or Tia Maria) for an adult twist

For The Streusel Topping

• All-purpose flour – for the crumb base
• Brown sugar – adds a deep molasses sweetness
• Cocoa powder – to give that chocolate-coffee vibe
• Unsalted butter – cold and cubed, for that perfect crumbly texture
• Ground cinnamon – a hint of spice to complement the coffee

How To Make Tiramisu Coffee Cake

Alright, let’s get hands-on! I’ll break this down into easy, chatty steps to make sure you nail this cake without breaking a sweat.

1. Prep The Streusel Topping

   • Mix flour, brown sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon in a bowl.
   • Cut in cold butter with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
   • Set aside in the fridge while you make the rest-this keeps the butter cold for a perfect crunch!

2. Make The Coffee Soak

   • Brew strong espresso or coffee and mix with a little coffee liqueur if you want that extra oomph.
   • Set aside to cool.

3. Prepare The Cake Batter

   • Whisk together dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy.
   • Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
   • Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, mixing gently to keep it light and airy.
   • Fold in the espresso coffee carefully to infuse that mocha goodness.

4. Make The Mascarpone Filling

   • Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
   • In another bowl, mix mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
   • Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture to keep it airy.

5. Assemble The Cake

   • Pour half the cake batter into your prepared pan.
   • Dollop and gently spread half of the mascarpone filling on top.
   • Drizzle half of the coffee soak over this layer, letting it sink in but not drown the cake.
   • Add the remaining cake batter on top and smooth out.
   • Sprinkle generously with the streusel topping.

6. Bake

   • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean (don’t worry if some mascarpone peeks through-it’s supposed to be moist).
   • Let cool slightly, then drizzle remaining coffee soak and add the rest of the mascarpone on top as a spread or dollop.
   • Dust with cocoa powder before serving for that classic tiramisu finish.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Let’s geek out a little here-because the beauty of baking is in understanding how these ingredients interact!

• Mascarpone Cheese: Unlike cream cheese, mascarpone is softer and higher in fat (around 60-75%), which gives tiramisu its signature silky texture. It emulsifies beautifully with whipped cream to create a light yet decadent filling.
• Espresso/Coffee: The bitterness from the coffee balances the sweetness of the cake and filling. It also adds moisture to the crumb without making it soggy, thanks to the espresso’s strong flavor intensity.
• Baking Powder & Soda: These two leavening agents work together-baking powder for immediate rise and baking soda reacting with the acidity in the buttermilk/milk to create an extra lift, resulting in a light, tender cake.
• Cold Butter in Streusel: The cold butter creates small pockets in the topping that melt during baking, creating a crunchy yet tender crumb topping-think little buttery bursts.
• Brown Sugar in Streusel: Adds moisture and a rich caramel flavor, which pairs wonderfully with the cocoa and cinnamon.

Expert Tips

Oh, these are the golden nuggets that will make your tiramisu coffee cake next-level:

• Use Freshly Brewed Espresso: Instant coffee can work, but freshly brewed espresso brings a richer, more complex flavor.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Keep it light and fluffy by mixing just until ingredients are combined; overmixing can make the cake dense.
• Chill the Streusel: Always keep the streusel cold until right before baking to ensure it crisps up beautifully.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and mascarpone are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Layering: Be gentle when spreading mascarpone between layers-too much mixing can deflate the airy cream.
• Rest After Baking: Let the cake cool fully or overnight in the fridge-it allows the flavors to meld and the cake to firm up, making slicing easier and the taste more intense.

Recipe Variations

Feel like mixing it up or tailoring the cake to your vibe? Here are some fun twists:

• Chocolate Lovers’ Version: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter or swirl melted chocolate into the mascarpone filling.
• Nutty Delight: Fold toasted hazelnuts or almonds into the streusel topping for extra crunch and nuttiness.
• Alcohol-Free: Skip the coffee liqueur and add a splash of vanilla or almond extract for depth without the booze.
• Vegan Twist: Use plant-based butter, a flaxseed egg substitute, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and vegan mascarpone alternatives.
• Fruit Infusion: Add a layer of fresh raspberries or strawberries between the cake and mascarpone for a fruity surprise.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg into the batter for an exotic twist that complements coffee beautifully.

Final Words

Honestly, this Tiramisu Coffee Cake is one of those recipes that feels fancy but is surprisingly straightforward. It’s perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself on a weekend. The layers of coffee, creamy mascarpone, and crumbly streusel combine to create a flavor profile that’s rich, balanced, and endlessly comforting.

Baking this cake will fill your kitchen with the intoxicating aroma of coffee and vanilla, and serving it will guarantee smiles all around. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile-great warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled with an espresso on the side.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed To Make Tiramisu Coffee Cake?

The main ingredients for tiramisu coffee cake typically include all-purpose flour, sugar, eggs, butter, mascarpone cheese, espresso or strong brewed coffee, cocoa powder, baking powder, vanilla extract, and sometimes cream cheese and powdered sugar for frosting.

Can I Use Instant Coffee Instead Of Espresso In The Recipe?

Yes, instant coffee or strong brewed coffee can be used as a substitute for espresso. Just ensure the coffee is strong enough to impart the classic tiramisu flavor.

How Long Does It Take To Prepare And Bake Tiramisu Coffee Cake?

Preparation usually takes about 20-30 minutes, while baking typically requires 30-40 minutes. Additional chilling time may be needed if the cake includes a mascarpone or cream cheese frosting.

Is Tiramisu Coffee Cake Served Warm Or Chilled?

Tiramisu coffee cake is best served chilled or at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld, especially if it includes mascarpone or coffee-soaked layers.

Can I Make Tiramisu Coffee Cake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, tiramisu coffee cake can be prepared a day in advance. In fact, chilling it overnight enhances the coffee and mascarpone flavors, making the cake more moist and flavorful.

What Is The Best Way To Store Tiramisu Coffee Cake?

Store tiramisu coffee cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. It is best consumed within 3-4 days.

Can I Substitute Mascarpone Cheese With Cream Cheese?

Mascarpone is the traditional ingredient for tiramisu, but cream cheese can be used as a substitute. It will slightly alter the flavor and texture, making it tangier and firmer.

Is Tiramisu Coffee Cake Gluten-free Or Can It Be Made Gluten-free?

Traditional tiramisu coffee cake contains wheat flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, it can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour blends suitable for baking.

How Do I Add The Classic Tiramisu Flavor To The Coffee Cake?

The classic tiramisu flavor comes from espresso or strong coffee, mascarpone cheese, cocoa powder, and sometimes a splash of coffee liqueur like Kahlúa or Marsala wine.

Can I Add Alcohol To The Tiramisu Coffee Cake Recipe?

Yes, adding coffee liqueur, Marsala wine, or rum is common in tiramisu recipes to enhance the authentic flavor. Alcohol can be mixed into the coffee soak or mascarpone filling.