Tiramisu is a world-famous Italian dessert, known for its layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and dusting of cocoa. But what if you could enjoy that iconic flavor in a bite-sized, no-bake format—ready in just 10 minutes?
Enter: 10-Minute Tiramisu Balls.
These no-bake dessert bites pack all the flavor of traditional tiramisu—espresso, cocoa, mascarpone (or cream cheese), and a hint of liqueur—into a convenient, poppable treat. Whether you need a quick dessert for a party, an after-dinner indulgence, or a make-ahead gift for the holidays, these tiramisu truffles deliver elegance with ease.
🛠️ Recommended Kitchen Tools
These are the only tools you’ll need for this recipe:
- Medium mixing bowl
- Silicone spatula or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Food processor or ziplock bag with rolling pin (for crushing cookies)
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon (for uniform size)
- Plate or tray for setting the balls
- Fine mesh sieve (for dusting cocoa)
🧾 Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make about 18–20 tiramisu balls:
Base Ingredients:
- 1½ cups crushed ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi) or graham crackers
- ½ cup mascarpone cheese (or cream cheese if preferred)
- 3 tablespoons brewed espresso or strong coffee (cooled)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (like Kahlua) – optional
Coating:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Optional: Melted chocolate or chocolate sprinkles for variation
👨🍳 Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Crush the Cookies
Place your ladyfinger cookies in a food processor and pulse until they form fine crumbs. If using a bag and rolling pin, make sure they are finely crushed for smooth mixing.
Step 2: Combine the Filling
In a medium bowl, mix mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar, espresso, vanilla extract, and coffee liqueur (if using). Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add Crushed Cookies
Add the cookie crumbs to the mascarpone mixture and fold until a soft dough forms. If the mixture feels too wet, add a few extra cookie crumbs until you can roll it easily.
Step 4: Roll the Balls
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the mixture and roll into 1-inch balls with your hands. Place them on a parchment-lined tray or plate.
Step 5: Dust with Cocoa
Using a fine sieve, dust each ball generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. For an extra fancy touch, drizzle with melted chocolate or roll in chocolate shavings.
Step 6: Chill (Optional)
These can be served immediately, but they taste even better after 20–30 minutes in the fridge to set.
💡 Tips for Success
- Use room-temperature mascarpone or cream cheese to make mixing smooth and easy.
- Cool the coffee before adding it to avoid melting the cheese or making the mixture too runny.
- Adjust consistency by adding more cookie crumbs if the dough is too wet or a splash of espresso if too dry.
- Uniform sizing helps with presentation and consistent serving.
🔄 Recipe Variations
🍫 Chocolate-Dipped Tiramisu Balls
Dip the finished balls in melted dark or milk chocolate for a decadent coating. Let them set on wax paper.
🌰 Nutty Crunch
Roll each ball in finely chopped toasted hazelnuts or almonds for extra texture.
🥥 Coconut Tiramisu Balls
Roll them in unsweetened shredded coconut instead of cocoa powder for a different take.
🥃 Boozy Kick
Add a little extra liqueur (Kahlua, Baileys, or Amaretto) to the dough for adults-only indulgence. Just reduce espresso slightly to maintain consistency.
🥗 Make It Fit Your Diet
Gluten-Free
Use gluten-free ladyfinger cookies or graham crackers.
Dairy-Free
Use a dairy-free cream cheese substitute and ensure your cookies are also dairy-free.
Low-Sugar
Use a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol and low-carb cookies or almond flour for the base.
Vegan
Use vegan cream cheese and pair it with dairy-free and egg-free cookies or biscuits. Skip any liqueurs that contain dairy.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! Store them in the fridge for up to 5 days. They also freeze well for up to 1 month.
Q: What can I use instead of mascarpone?
A: Cream cheese is the most common substitute. It’s slightly tangier but works beautifully.
Q: Do I need coffee liqueur?
A: Not at all—it’s optional. The espresso alone gives enough tiramisu flavor.
Q: Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso?
A: Yes! Just mix 1 tablespoon of instant coffee with 3 tablespoons of hot water and let it cool.
Q: How do I keep the dough from sticking to my hands?
A: Lightly grease your hands with a little butter or neutral oil when rolling.
🧁 Conclusion
10-Minute Tiramisu Balls are the no-bake dessert you didn’t know you needed. Fast, fancy, and full of flavor, they transform the classic tiramisu into a modern treat that’s easy to make and even easier to eat. Perfect for coffee lovers, dessert lovers, and busy hosts alike, these little delights are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Serve them at a holiday party, pack them in gift boxes, or simply enjoy them with your afternoon coffee. One bite, and you’ll be hooked.
