Coffee Tiramisu Cake Recipe

If you’re searching for an elegant yet irresistibly comforting dessert that will delight both coffee lovers and cake enthusiasts, look no further than this Coffee Tiramisu Cake. Picture vanilla-scented cake layers bathed in a rich coffee soak and enveloped in light, espresso-mascarpone frosting—a decadent twist on the beloved Italian classic, all in layer cake form. Whether you want to impress guests or simply spoil yourself, each bite is perfumed with aromatic coffee and sweet vanilla, destined to become your next showstopper bake!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple but vivid ingredients, each one bringing its own magic to the finished Coffee Tiramisu Cake. Together, they weave a tapestry of soft textures, bold flavors, and just the right hint of sophistication.

• All-purpose flour: Gives your cake its structure while keeping every crumb tender and light.
• Baking powder: Ensures the cake rises beautifully for a fluffy, delicate result.
• Kosher salt: Just a little for balance—it amplifies sweetness and enhances the complexity of flavors.
• Buttermilk, at room temperature: Adds richness, tang, and helps the cake stay incredibly moist.
• Vanilla bean paste: Supplies an authentic vanilla flavor and gorgeous specks throughout the layers.
• Unsalted butter, at room temperature: Provides a creamy foundation, creating a dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and ensures a delicate, golden finish.
• Large eggs, at room temperature: Bind the batter and contribute luscious richness.
• Strong coffee, cold: This coffee soak infuses the cake with genuine tiramisu flair—choose your favorite intense brew!
• Mascarpone, cold: Classic tiramisu filling ingredient, providing silky texture and a rich, creamy tang.
• Espresso powder or fine instant coffee: Boosts the depth of coffee flavor in the frosting.
• Powdered sugar, sifted: Sweetens and aerates the mascarpone frosting for a dreamy finish.
• Heavy cream, cold: Whipped in for a light, luscious frosting with structure.
• Pinch of salt: Balances out the sweetness for a truly satisfying bite.
• Cocoa powder, for dusting: The traditional tiramisu signature and a delightful snap of chocolate flavor.

How to Make Coffee Tiramisu Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take two 8-inch round cake pans, grease them thoroughly, and dust them with flour. This helps your vanilla cake layers release easily after baking for neat, picture-perfect results.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. This little step ensures even distribution, so every bite of your Coffee Tiramisu Cake is soft and rises evenly in the oven.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy—this is the secret to a cloud-like cake crumb. The mixture should look pale and almost doubled in volume before moving on.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in your eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in that glorious vanilla bean paste; those little specks give both flavor and style to our cake layers.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix just until everything comes together—overmixing is the enemy of a tender cake!

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans and smooth the tops gently. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. When a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, they’re done. Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. This pause allows the crumb to set up perfectly.

Step 7: Soak with Coffee

Once the cakes are completely cool, brush the tops with your prepared strong coffee. This is where the tiramisu magic really happens—don’t be shy, but don’t flood it either. The cake will happily soak up the rich coffee flavor.

Step 8: Whip up the Espresso Mascarpone Frosting

Combine cold mascarpone, espresso powder, sifted powdered sugar, vanilla bean paste, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and whisk until luscious, thick, and spreadable. The frosting should hold soft peaks—the perfect balance between creamy and fluffy.

Step 9: Assemble and Frost

Set one cake layer on your serving plate. Slather on half the mascarpone frosting, top with the second cake layer, then finish with the remaining frosting. For that finishing tiramisu flourish, dust the top liberally with cocoa powder. Your Coffee Tiramisu Cake is now ready to steal the show!

How to Serve Coffee Tiramisu Cake

Garnishes

A broad dusting of cocoa powder is a must, but try adding chocolate curls, chocolate-covered espresso beans, or delicate mocha drizzle for flair. Each bite becomes an artful celebration of coffee and cream.

Side Dishes

This cake shines alongside fresh berries or a bright fruit salad. If you really want to elevate the Coffee Tiramisu Cake experience, serve with a scoop of vanilla gelato or a dollop of barely sweetened whipped cream—divine pairings for coffee and mascarpone’s deep flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the cake into elegant rectangles, dusting each with cocoa powder, and topping with a single espresso bean for a playful nod to classic tiramisu. Or present it in individual jars for a modern, portable take—perfect for gatherings or picnics.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Coffee Tiramisu Cake covered in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight as the coffee and mascarpone meld with the cake, making it even more delicious for the next few days.

Freezing

You can freeze individual slices (or the whole cake, unfrosted) wrapped tightly in plastic and foil for up to two months. If freezing fully assembled, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge for optimal texture and flavor.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed cold or at cool room temperature, just like traditional tiramisu. If you prefer a softer mascarpone layer, let slices sit at room temp for about 15 minutes before serving—no microwaving required!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought cake to save time?

Absolutely! If you’re in a pinch, a good-quality plain vanilla sponge from the bakery will work. Just focus on the coffee soak and espresso mascarpone frosting to transform it into a true Coffee Tiramisu Cake experience.

Can I substitute the mascarpone?

If mascarpone is hard to find, you can use full-fat cream cheese softened at room temperature—expect a tangier flavor, but still creamy and delicious. Just be sure to whip it well for a light texture.

What’s the best coffee to use for the soak?

Go for a robust, bittersweet brew—think fresh espresso, strong drip coffee, or even cold brew concentrate. The stronger the coffee, the more pronounced the tiramisu flavor will be in your Coffee Tiramisu Cake.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend, ensuring there’s a bit of xanthan gum for structure. The recipe otherwise stays the same for a just-as-delicious gluten-free treat.

How long will Coffee Tiramisu Cake keep?

Stored properly in the refrigerator, the cake will stay dreamy and moist for up to four days—if it lasts that long. The flavors only improve as it sits, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert.

Final Thoughts

I can’t tell you enough how magical this Coffee Tiramisu Cake turns out—where classic Italian dessert meets rich, fluffy cake in the most delightful way. Make it for a cozy afternoon treat or your next celebration, and watch it become everyone’s new favorite. Go ahead, brew that pot of coffee and get baking—you’ll be so glad you did!

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