If you’re looking for a dessert that brilliantly marries the rich, creamy indulgence of cheesecake with the classic, aromatic allure of Italian tiramisu, then this Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe is your ticket to dessert heaven. Imagine a crunchy biscuit base layered with a luscious mascarpone cheesecake filling, enveloped by coffee-soaked sponge fingers, and topped off with fluffy whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder. It’s an impressive yet surprisingly simple treat that will have friends and family begging for your secret.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a round layered dessert on a white plate with ridged edges, placed on a white marbled surface. The dessert has three layers: a light brown base layer that looks soft and crumbly, a thick middle white creamy layer, and a top layer of piped white cream dollops evenly spaced to cover the surface. The cream dollops are dusted generously with reddish-brown cocoa powder. Next to the plate is a black fine mesh sieve with cocoa powder spilled out on the surface. In the background, there is a metal whisk slightly out of focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients, each essential to building layers of flavor and texture that make this dessert special. From the crunchy biscuit base to the creamy mascarpone filling and that perfect coffee-soaked sponge, every component plays a delicious role.

Digestive biscuits (200 g): These provide a buttery, crumbly foundation that holds the cheesecake together beautifully.
Unsalted butter (90 g, melted): Adds richness and helps bind the biscuit base for the perfect texture.
Sponge fingers (200 g): Essential for soaking up the coffee mixture, lending a soft, spongy layer that echoes traditional tiramisu.
Instant strong coffee (1 tbsp): The backbone of the coffee soak, its robust flavor infuses the sponge fingers wonderfully.
Coffee liqueur (75 ml): Adds a subtle boozy kick to the coffee soak and cheesecake filling for an authentic touch.
Boiling water (200-300 ml): Used to dissolve the coffee, creating the perfect soak for the sponge fingers.
Mascarpone (500 g): The star of the cheesecake filling, delivering that luscious, creamy texture and classic tiramisu flavor.
Icing sugar (75 g): Sweetens the mascarpone filling and whipped cream without any graininess.
Vanilla bean extract (1 tsp): Brings warmth and depth to the creamy filling and topping.
Double cream (600 ml, divided): Whipped into the filling and for the topping, it adds lightness and a dreamy finish.
Cocoa powder (1-2 tbsp): For that iconic dusting on top, adding slightly bitter contrast to the sweet cream.

How to Make Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Crafting the Biscuit Base

Start by blitzing the digestives into fine crumbs using a food processor, or bash them in a bowl until you achieve that sandy texture. Mix in the melted butter thoroughly to create a wet sand consistency, then press this mix firmly into the base of an 8-inch springform tin. This base sets the stage with a satisfying crunch that will hold all your layers beautifully.

Step 2: Preparing the Coffee Soak

In a fresh bowl, dissolve the instant strong coffee in boiling water, then stir in the coffee liqueur. Allow this mixture to cool completely. This soak is crucial for hydrating the sponge fingers with deep coffee flavor, making every bite authentically tiramisu.

Step 3: Whipping Up the Cheesecake Filling

Place the mascarpone, icing sugar, vanilla bean extract, and coffee liqueur into a mixing bowl. Whip them together until smooth and combined. Next, add in the double cream and whip again until the mixture thickens to a creamy, luscious consistency. This filling is the heart of your cheesecake, balancing light creaminess with rich coffee notes.

Step 4: Assembling the Layers

Spread half of the mascarpone cheesecake filling evenly over the set biscuit base, creating a smooth surface. Dip each sponge finger briefly into the cooled coffee soak, soaking just enough without making them soggy. Arrange a layer of these coffee-soaked sponge fingers on top of the filling. Top this sponge finger layer with the remaining cheesecake mixture, smoothing it out for a flawless finish.

Step 5: Chilling to Perfection

Place the assembled cheesecake in the fridge and let it set for at least 5 to 6 hours, but preferably overnight. This waiting time allows all the flavors to marry beautifully and the texture to firm up just right. When ready, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform tin to reveal those enticing layers.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Whip the remaining double cream with icing sugar and vanilla bean extract until soft peaks form. Pipe this whipped cream generously over the top of the cheesecake for a cloud-like finish. Finally, dust the top with cocoa powder to bring that signature tiramisu look and a hint of bitterness that complements the sweet creaminess perfectly.

How to Serve Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe

The image shows a slice of layered cake placed on a white plate with a black base section, accompanied by a white and gold fork. The cake has four distinct layers: the bottom layer is a light brown biscuit base, followed by a creamy white layer with a slightly grainy texture, then a dark brown layer with a rough texture that looks like soaked sponge, and finally topped with a thick smooth white cream layer. The very top of the cake is decorated with dollops of white cream dusted with a rich cocoa powder, giving a soft, velvety look. In the background, the remaining whole cake mirrors the same layers and decoration, set on a white marbled texture surface. A woman's hand is not present in this image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an elegant presentation, stick to classic garnishes like a dusting of cocoa powder or a sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings. Fresh mint leaves or a few coffee beans scattered around can add both a pop of color and reinforce the coffee theme delightfully.

Side Dishes

This Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe shines as the grand finale to any meal, but if you want to serve it alongside something, consider fresh berries or a light fruit coulis. These fresh accents provide a slightly tangy counterpoint to the rich dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving individual portions in clear glasses, layering the biscuit crumbs, mascarpone filling, and soaked sponge fingers for a fun twist. Or place small dollops of coffee-spiked whipped cream and a dust of cocoa on each slice to make the presentation even more striking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This cheesecake keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors while retaining moisture and freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze this cheesecake to extend its lifespan. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge to preserve that creamy texture without compromising the delicate coffee flavors.

Reheating

Reheating isn’t recommended for this chilled dessert because its creamy layers are best enjoyed cold. Let the cheesecake come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving if you find it too firm straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use regular coffee instead of instant coffee in the recipe?

Absolutely! Brewed strong coffee can be substituted for instant coffee; just make sure it’s concentrated enough to infuse the sponge fingers with bold flavor.

Is it necessary to use coffee liqueur?

The coffee liqueur adds an authentic flavor and a subtle kick, but if you prefer to keep it non-alcoholic, you can replace it with additional strong coffee or coffee extract.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

While the traditional Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe relies on dairy mascarpone and cream, you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and coconut cream for a vegan-friendly version, though the texture and flavor will vary.

What size cake tin should I use?

An 8-inch (20 cm) springform cake tin is ideal for this recipe, giving you sturdy layers with the perfect balance between thickness and ease of slicing.

How long should I let the cheesecake chill?

Chilling for at least 5-6 hours is necessary, but leaving it overnight is best. This resting time helps firm up the cheesecake while allowing flavors to deepen and harmonize.

Final Thoughts

I promise, once you try this Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe, it will become a cherished favorite in your dessert repertoire. It’s a lovely fusion of textures and tastes that is sure to impress everyone who takes a bite. So gather your ingredients, enjoy the process, and get ready for a slice of pure joy!