Tiramisu Cheesecake
A rich and elegant dessert that combines the creamy texture of classic cheesecake with the bold flavors of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone, inspired by the beloved Italian tiramisu.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1½ cups crushed ladyfingers or graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- For the filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese softened
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup strong brewed espresso or coffee cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur optional
- For the topping:
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
- Optional: additional ladyfingers chocolate shavings, or espresso drizzle for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Mix crushed ladyfingers with sugar and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and mascarpone until smooth. Add sugar and mix until well incorporated. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed. Stir in flour, vanilla, espresso, and coffee liqueur until just combined.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Tap the pan gently to release air bubbles. Bake for 55–65 minutes or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the door ajar; let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
- Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Make the Topping: Beat heavy cream and powdered sugar to stiff peaks. Fold in mascarpone until smooth. Spread evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
- Dust and Serve: Dust the top with cocoa powder before serving. Optionally garnish with crushed ladyfingers or chocolate shavings.
Notes
- To prevent cracking, bake the cheesecake in a water bath or place a pan of water on the oven rack beneath it.
- Coffee liqueur adds depth, but can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
- Cheesecake slices best when chilled thoroughly.