Can I make tiramisu without coffee?

Yes, you can substitute the coffee with hot chocolate, chai tea, or even a coffee-flavored alternative like chicory root. This works especially well for children or caffeine-sensitive guests.

How long does tiramisu need to chill before serving?

A minimum of 3 hours is recommended for the layers to set and the flavors to blend. However, overnight chilling yields the best texture and taste.

Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?

Absolutely. Blend equal parts of softened cream cheese and heavy cream to mimic the texture and flavor of mascarpone.

Is tiramisu safe to eat if it’s made without baking?

Yes, this version is made without raw eggs, making it safe to enjoy straight from the fridge after chilling. There’s no baking required at all.

Lazy Girl’s Tiramisu

Name: Lazy Girl’s Tiramisu
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup mascarpone cheese; 1 cup cold heavy cream; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1.5 cups cooled strong brewed coffee or espresso; 24 ladyfingers (savoiardi); 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting

Description

This Lazy Girl’s Tiramisu is a creamy, no-bake dessert layered with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and a rich mascarpone whipped cream, finished with a dusting of cocoa powder. It’s an easy sheet pan dinner alternative for dessert, perfect for quick and healthy meals when you’re short on time but crave indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup mascarpone cheese
1 cup cold heavy cream
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1.5 cups cooled strong brewed coffee or espresso
24 ladyfingers (savoiardi)
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Whip the Cream Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat together the mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form and the mixture is light and airy.
Soak the Ladyfingers: Pour the brewed coffee into a shallow bowl and briefly dip each ladyfinger into the liquid for 1–2 seconds on each side. Do not over-soak, or they’ll fall apart.
Layer the Base: Arrange half of the soaked ladyfingers in a single layer in an 8×8 inch dish, covering the entire bottom.
Add the Cream Layer: Spread half of the whipped mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers using a spatula, smoothing it out evenly.
Repeat the Layers: Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers followed by the remaining mascarpone cream, smoothing the top to finish.
Dust and Chill: Sift cocoa powder evenly over the top layer and cover the dish with plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight.

Notes

For a fun variation, add a tablespoon of coffee liqueur or rum to the brewed coffee before dipping the ladyfingers. To make it dairy-free, swap mascarpone and cream for plant-based alternatives. Chill your mixing bowl before whipping the cream for best results.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 360
Sugar: 17g
Sodium: 90mg
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 110mg