If you’re a fan of tiramisu and cheesecake, prepare to fall in love with this irresistible fusion: Tiramisu Cheesecake. It’s the best of both worlds—a rich, creamy cheesecake layered with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and dusted with cocoa powder for that authentic Italian finish.
Imagine the bold espresso flavor of traditional tiramisu, paired with the smooth, tangy texture of a New York-style cheesecake. This no-compromise dessert is a showstopper for any dinner party, holiday table, or cozy night at home.
Why You’ll Love This Tiramisu Cheesecake
- ☕ Coffee Lover’s Dream – Infused with espresso and coffee liqueur.
- 🍫 Elegant Layers – Cheesecake meets soaked ladyfingers.
- 🎂 Make-Ahead Friendly – Best served chilled, perfect for prepping in advance.
- 🤍 Creamy & Balanced – Not too sweet, with a velvety texture and bold flavor.
- 🇮🇹 Classic Italian Flair – Authentic tiramisu elements elevated into a cake.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 200g (7 oz) crushed graham crackers or ladyfingers
- 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
Filling:
- 900g (2 lbs) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Coffee Mixture:
- 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee (cooled)
- 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa or optional)
- 12–15 ladyfingers (savoiardi)
Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Cocoa powder for dusting
- Chocolate curls or espresso beans (optional)
Instructions
1. Make the Crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Mix crushed graham crackers or ladyfingers with melted butter.
- Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla. Mix until combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating lightly between each addition.
3. Assemble Layers
- Pour half the cheesecake batter over the crust.
- Dip ladyfingers quickly into the coffee mixture and layer over the batter.
- Pour the remaining batter on top and smooth the surface.
4. Bake the Cheesecake
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off oven and leave cheesecake inside with door ajar for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
5. Prepare the Topping
- Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Spread over the chilled cheesecake.
- Dust generously with cocoa powder and decorate as desired.
Tips for Success
- Don’t soak the ladyfingers too long – A quick dip keeps them from becoming mushy.
- Room temperature ingredients – This ensures a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Avoid overbaking – Slight jiggle in the center is perfect.
- Use a water bath if you want – It’s optional but can help prevent cracking.
- Chill thoroughly – Flavors and texture improve after several hours in the fridge.
Recipe Variations
- No-Bake Version: Use gelatin in the cream cheese mixture and layer with soaked ladyfingers, then chill to set.
- Mini Tiramisu Cheesecakes: Make in a muffin tin with paper liners for single-serving desserts.
- Boozy Boost: Add extra coffee liqueur to the filling or drizzle on top before serving.
- Chocolate Twist: Add a thin layer of melted chocolate between layers or use a chocolate cookie crust.
Make It Fit Your Diet
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cookies or ladyfingers.
- Alcohol-Free: Omit the liqueur or replace it with vanilla extract.
- Lower Sugar: Use reduced-sugar cream cheese and sweeten with erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream alternatives.
Storage & Serving
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Freeze without the whipped cream topping for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight.
- Best Served Cold: Tiramisu cheesecake tastes best fully chilled and dusted just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Tiramisu Cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it’s best made a day ahead to allow flavors to develop.
Can I skip the coffee liqueur?
Absolutely. Just use strong brewed coffee instead for a non-alcoholic version.
Why does my cheesecake crack?
This can happen due to overbaking or rapid temperature changes. Letting it cool slowly and not overmixing the batter helps prevent cracks.
Final Thoughts
This Tiramisu Cheesecake is more than a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and indulgence. Perfectly layered, beautifully balanced, and full of Italian charm, it’s sure to become a favorite for birthdays, holidays, and special gatherings.
Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned home chef, this easy-to-follow recipe delivers big on taste and presentation. One bite, and you’ll understand why tiramisu cheesecake is a dessert worth repeating.
