Chocolate tiramisu is a decadent twist on the classic Italian dessert, bringing together rich cocoa flavors with the beloved layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone. If you love the dreamy texture of tiramisu but crave a chocolate boost, this Chocolate Tiramisu Recipe is your new go-to. It’s an easy, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging in a luscious treat at home. Using strong coffee and a splash of Kahlua, this dessert balances bitterness and sweetness beautifully, while cocoa powder and melted chocolate add that irresistible chocolate depth.

The Upside of Chocolate Tiramisu Recipe

One of the best things about this Chocolate Tiramisu Recipe is how effortlessly it elevates a classic favorite into something special without complicating the process. Unlike many desserts that require baking, this recipe comes together quickly and chills to perfection. The layers of creamy mascarpone filling and coffee-dipped ladyfingers create a texture contrast that’s both silky and spongey. Plus, the chocolate element means it’s a crowd-pleaser for chocoholics and coffee lovers alike.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a dessert to enjoy over the weekend, this recipe is reliable and customizable. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or elevate it with a little garnish for holidays or special occasions. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead dessert, giving you more time to focus on other dishes.

Ingredients at a Glance

1 cup strong coffee or espresso, cooled
½ cup Kahlua (coffee liqueur alternative: use coffee syrup or omit for a non-alcoholic version)
½ cup granulated sugar
3 large egg yolks
1 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
24 ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
3 ounces dark chocolate, melted

Before You Start: Equipment

Mixing bowls: For whipping cream and preparing mascarpone filling.
Electric mixer or whisk: To beat egg yolks and whip cream to soft peaks.
9×9-inch baking dish or trifle bowl: To assemble the tiramisu layers.
Fine mesh sieve: For dusting cocoa powder evenly.
Spatula: For folding ingredients gently.
Measuring cups and spoons: To keep ingredient quantities accurate.

How to Prepare Chocolate Tiramisu Recipe

Step 1: Brew Your Coffee and Prepare the Coffee Mixture

Start by brewing 1 cup of strong coffee or espresso and allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, mix in ½ cup Kahlua and ½ cup sugar until the sugar dissolves. Set this coffee mixture aside—this is what you’ll use to dip your ladyfingers.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Yolks and Sugar

In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 large egg yolks and sugar until the mixture turns pale and slightly thickened. This process usually takes about 3-5 minutes by hand or 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.

Step 3: Add Mascarpone and Vanilla

Fold the softened 1 cup mascarpone cheese and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the egg yolk mixture until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, combining carefully to maintain a light, airy texture.

Step 5: Assemble the Layers

Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture—just a second or two per side so they don’t get soggy—and lay them in a single layer in your dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers. Drizzle half of the melted dark chocolate over the cream, swirling gently with a spatula.

Step 6: Add Second Layer

Repeat the process: dip ladyfingers in coffee mixture and layer on top of the cream. Finish with the remaining mascarpone cream and drizzle the rest of the melted chocolate on top.

Step 7: Dust with Cocoa Powder and Chill

Using a fine mesh sieve, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. Cover the tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and texture.

Holiday-Friendly Variations

Mint Chocolate Tiramisu: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the mascarpone mixture and sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top.
Orange Chocolate Tiramisu: Mix in some orange zest to the mascarpone cream and replace Kahlua with an orange liqueur or orange juice.
Nutty Delight: Layer chopped toasted hazelnuts or almonds between the mascarpone layers for added crunch.
Chocolate Raspberry: Add a layer of fresh raspberries between the ladyfingers and mascarpone for a fruity contrast.

If You’re Curious

This Chocolate Tiramisu Recipe is a great base for experimenting with flavors and textures. You might wonder about some common questions:

Can I use a coffee substitute? Yes, you can use decaf coffee or even a rich black tea for a different twist.
What if I can’t find ladyfingers? You can substitute with sponge cake slices or even store-bought pound cake cut into strips.
Is it safe to use raw eggs? The egg yolks are gently cooked by whisking with sugar, but for extra safety, you can use pasteurized eggs or an eggless mascarpone substitute.
Can I make this dairy-free? Yes, try a dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream in place of mascarpone and heavy cream.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

This dessert tastes best after chilling for several hours to let the flavors meld. Store your chocolate tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing as it can alter the texture of the mascarpone cream and ladyfingers. When ready to serve, you can let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly if desired.

Ask the Chef

Can I make this tiramisu without alcohol?

Absolutely! Simply omit the Kahlua or replace it with a coffee syrup or extra coffee for flavor without the alcohol content. The dessert will still be rich and delicious.

What’s the best way to melt chocolate for the drizzling?

Use a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Melted chocolate should be smooth and pourable but not too hot when drizzling over the mascarpone.

How do I prevent ladyfingers from becoming too soggy?

Dip ladyfingers quickly—just enough to coat them—so they absorb coffee but don’t become mushy. A quick one to two seconds per side usually works well.

Can I prepare this chocolate tiramisu recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it’s even better when made a day ahead. The chilling time allows the flavors to develop fully, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy days or special events.

Similar Recipes

Chocolate Whopper Cookies – Crunchy and chocolaty cookies perfect for pairing with coffee.
Chocolate Macarons – Light and airy macarons with a rich chocolate ganache filling.

The Last Word

If you’re searching for a luscious, chocolate-infused dessert that combines the beloved textures of tiramisu with the rich depth of cocoa, this Chocolate Tiramisu Recipe is a must-try. Simple to prepare, layered with love, and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion. From the coffee-soaked ladyfingers to the creamy mascarpone and the final dusting of cocoa, every bite invites you to savor the harmony of chocolate and coffee in a classic Italian favorite with a delightful twist.

Enjoy the process of layering, chilling, and ultimately indulging in this dessert that’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re making it for a holiday celebration or a quiet evening at home, this chocolate tiramisu will impress and satisfy every sweet tooth.

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