Tiramisu Layer Cake Recipe | How to make One

Posted on Jul 7th, 2024

by Warm Oven

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The luxurious, soft, and creamy dessert that you often see in the patisserie, Tiramisu cakes are the most loved dessert by all. The creamy blend of mascarpone cheese, sugar, and occasionally eggs or cream alternates between these layers. Tiramisu cakes are mostly loved by Coffee lovers and others, too.

People adore Tiramisu layer cake for its rich blend of coffee-soaked layers, creamy mascarpone filling, and cocoa dusting. It offers a luxurious, indulgent experience that’s perfect for celebrations. Its appealing textures and bold flavours make it a favourite among dessert enthusiasts and coffee lovers.

Understanding Tiramisu Cake: What is a Tiramisu cake?

Originating in the Veneto region in the 1960s, Tiramisu cake offers a contemporary take on the traditional Italian delicacy. It’s suitable for larger parties and special occasions, preserving classic flavours with bits of coffee and creamy mascarpone. It is suitable for individuals who enjoy espresso undertones and the structured elegance of a cake.

Then what is a Tiramisu cake made of?

Tiramisu Cake features layers of Genoise or vanilla sponge cake soaked in espresso syrup for a robust coffee flavour. Between these layers is a creamy filling of mascarpone cheese, sugar, and sometimes whipped cream, offering a rich texture akin to traditional Tiramisu. Cocoa powder or chocolate shavings top it off, balancing sweetness with a touch of bitterness for a decadent dessert experience.

Tiramisu Cake Profile

Flavour: The rich, powerful coffee flavour of tiramisu cake is a harmonic blend with hints of chocolate and the subtle sweetness of marsala wine. Together, these tastes produce a complex and well-rounded flavour experience.

Texture: The layers of Genoise, or vanilla sponge soaked in coffee syrup, give the cake a rich but airy texture. Each mouthful is given an opulent touch thanks to the exquisite contrast between the silky smoothness of the creamy mascarpone icing and this base.

Now, let’s dive into the recipe quickly, shall we? But before that, let’s find out the necessary baking tools and the most required ingredients.

Necessary Baking Equipment

Measuring Tools: Measuring cups and spoons (for accurate ingredient measurements) and Kitchen scale (optional but useful for precise measurements)
Mixing and Preparation: Whisk (for mixing ingredients and whipping cream and Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer) for beating eggs, whipping cream, and mixing frosting.
Baking Pan: Springform pan (typically used for layer cakes like Tiramisu Cake) Alternatively, round cake pans if not using a springform.
Other Essential Tools: Spatula (for folding ingredients and smoothing frosting), Offset spatula (for spreading frosting), Pastry brush (for brushing espresso syrup onto cake layers), Fine-mesh sieve (for dusting cocoa powder on top), and Parchment paper (for lining cake pans, if needed)
Optional but Useful: Kitchen thermometer (for checking syrup or custard temperatures), Cake lifter or large flat spatula (for transferring cake layers), and Cooling rack (for cooling cake layers before assembly)

These tools ensure that you can accurately measure ingredients, mix them effectively, bake the cake layers evenly, and assemble the Tiramisu Cake with finesse.

Comprehensive Ingredients List for Tiramisu Cake

The below-mentioned quantity is used to prepare 750 g-1 kg of Tiramisu cake at home. You can skip a few ingredients or add ingredients according to your needs.

Basics for Genoise or Vanilla Cake:

All-purpose flour: 1 cup (120 grams)
Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200 grams)
Eggs: 4 large
Unsalted butter (melted): 1/4 cup (60 grams)

Flavour Enhancers:

Espresso powder: 2 tablespoons
Brandy (for making the coffee-infused syrup)* optional
Marsala wine (for enriching the mascarpone filling)* optional

Core Ingredients:

Mascarpone cheese: 1 cup (225 grams) – Substitute with cream cheese if needed
Heavy whipping cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
Cocoa powder: 2 tablespoons (for dusting)
Strong brewed coffee (cooled): 1 Cup
Coffee liqueur (optional) : ¼ cup

These ingredients combine to create the distinctive flavours and textures of Tiramisu Cake, blending coffee-infused elements with creamy mascarpone and delicate wine notes for a decadent dessert experience.

Step-By-Step Recipe Instructions for Tiramisu Cake

Prep time – 45 mins

Cook time – 20 mins

Additional time– 4 hours

Total time – 5 hours 5 mins

Preparation of Cake Layers:

Genoise or Vanilla Cake: Preheat the oven to 350F (177C) convection (325F/163C conventional), grease and line four 8-inch pans with baking spray and parchment paper, and prepare the cake pans. Cream the eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy. Gently fold in the sifted dry ingredients. Bake until golden and springy to the touch. Cool completely on wire racks.

Creating Mascarpone Filling:

Ensure mascarpone and heavy cream are chilled. Beat the mascarpone at low-medium speed until combined, then increase the speed to medium-high for 2 minutes, scraping the edge of the bowl halfway through. In a separate bowl, whip cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Crafting Coffee Syrup:

Dissolve sugar in hot water. Stir in espresso powder and brandy or Marsala wine to taste. Adjust sweetness and coffee strength to preference. Set aside to cool.

Assembly Directions:
- Layering: Gently brush cake layers with prepared coffee syrup to impart flavour and moisture. Spread a thick layer of mascarpone, filling evenly between each cake layer.
- Frosting Application: Cover the assembled cake with the remaining mascarpone filling, smoothing the sides and top with an offset spatula for a neat finish.
Decorative Finishes:

Cocoa Powder Dusting: Just before serving, generously dust the top of the cake with cocoa powder using a fine-mesh sieve. This adds the final touch of traditional Tiramisu’s visual appeal.

Tips: Chill assembled cake for a few hours or overnight to enhance flavours and allow the layers to set. Serve chilled for the best texture and taste experience. Enjoy your homemade Tiramisu Cake!

Try this delicious Tiramisu Layer Cake recipe and share your creations with us on social media using #WarmovenBakes. Don’t forget to check out our other delightful recipes. Tag us on Instagram and Facebook – WarmOvenIndia

Serving and Presenting Tiramisu Cake Presentation Tips

The trickiest part of the Tiramisu cake Prep is definitely the serving and presentation. Your guests await your recipe to taste, and you can’t wait to hear the compliments, so make sure to serve in the best way possible.

Presentation and Slicing: Use a sharp, serrated knife to cut the tiramisu cake neatly without separating the layers. Wipe the knife in between cuts to ensure smooth slices.

For a sophisticated presentation, place each slice on a cooled dessert dish.

For added flair, feel free to sprinkle some more cocoa powder or chocolate shavings over each slice.

Temperature at Serving: The ideal temperature for tiramisu cake is slightly cool or chilled. This preserves the cake layers’ integrity and improves the mascarpone filling’s texture.

Chilling Time: Before serving, let the completed cake cool in the fridge for at least two to four hours or overnight if feasible. This enables the flavours to combine and the coffee syrup’s flavours to seep into the cake layers.

Bring to Room Temperature: If the slices have been chilled for a long time, let them remain at room temperature for ten to fifteen minutes before serving to improve the flavours and soften them a little.

You can ensure that every slice of tiramisu cake looks as good as it tastes, making it a great treat for any occasion.

Professional Baking Advice for Tiramisu Cake:

Preparing the ingredients and how long they need to chill: Before beginning, accurately measure and prepare the ingredients. Ensure the heavy cream and mascarpone cheese are refrigerated well to obtain a smooth and solid filling.

Flavour Development: Chilling time facilitates flavour blending. The assembled cake should be chilled for several hours or overnight. Letting the cake layers absorb the coffee syrup and the filling set improves the overall flavour and texture.

Handling Typical Difficulties:

Buttercream that curdles: Overmixing or temperature variations could cause curdling buttercream or mascarpone filling.
Fix: Chill the mixture briefly before gently whisking or folding it back together. Make sure the components are at roughly the same temperature.
Extra Tips for Using Ladyfingers Soaked in Coffee: Consider layering or replacing cake layers with coffee-soaked ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi) for an additional or different texture and flavour layer. These give your cake a classic Tiramisu touch and soak coffee syrup nicely.

With these suggestions, you can bake a wonderful Tiramisu Cake that will wow your guests with its flavour, texture, and appearance. With minor adjustments and meticulous preparation, you can achieve a dessert that pleases the baker and the guests alike.

Tiramisu Cake Recipe Modifications & Adjustments:

You can also consider modifications according to your needs and taste. However, you must ensure that the adjustments are made according to the required quantity.

Cupcake Adaptation: Use vanilla or coffee-flavoured cupcake batter to make Tiramisu Cupcakes. After partially filling the cupcake liners, bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
Coffee Soaking: To give the cooled cupcakes a coffee taste, brush them with espresso syrup.
Frosting: Place a dollop of mascarpone frosting on top of each cupcake, and if you’d like, use a piping bag to create a creative swirl. Add a final touch of chocolate powder.

Prepare-Ahead Techniques

It becomes quite important to prepare ahead of time to ensure a good baking experience without any burns or a messed up kitchen, isn’t it? There are certain ingredients that you can prepare ahead of time to keep everything ready before you begin.

Prep for Short Term (1-2 days):

Cake Layers: After baking, allow the layers to cool. Then, securely wrap them in plastic and store them at room temperature.
Mascarpone Filling: After making the filling, cover it and keep it chilled. Let it to room temperature before putting the cake together.
Coffee Syrup: Prepare and put the coffee syrup in an airtight container to keep it chilled.
Assembly: To allow chilling, assemble the cake a few hours before serving.

Extended Preparation (3+ days):

Freezing: Cake layers can be stored for up to a month if well covered. Before using, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Mascarpone Filling: The filling can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to two days in an airtight container.
Coffee Syrup: This can be prepared and kept in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Assembly Hints: When it comes time to assemble everything, follow the original recipe’s icing and layering directions. Chilling the prepared cake for a few hours or overnight enhances the flavours, and the layers can be set correctly.

Thanks to these modifications and make-ahead techniques, you can enjoy Tiramisu Cake in various formats and with different preparation times. This guarantees a tasty dessert that fits your demands and schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I substitute the mascarpone cheese for my tiramisu cake?

A: Yes, you can blend cream cheese and heavy cream for a similar texture and taste.

Q: How do I prevent my Tiramisu cake layers from drying out?

A: Brushing them generously with coffee syrup and wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap helps retain moisture.

Q: What can I use instead of espresso powder in Tiramisu Cake?

A: Strong brewed coffee or instant coffee dissolved in hot water can substitute for espresso powder.

Q: My Tiramisu Cake frosting is too runny. How can I thicken it?

A: Chill the frosting briefly to firm it up, then gently whip or fold to achieve the desired consistency.

Q: Can I make Tiramisu Cake without alcohol?

A: Yes, simply omit the brandy or Marsala wine in the coffee syrup and filling for a non-alcoholic version.

Side Recommendations:

Panna Cotta: Its creamy texture complements Tiramisu Cake’s richness.
Cannoli: Crispy shells filled with sweet ricotta cheese provide a delightful contrast.
Affogato: For a simple yet elegant dessert, serve a scoop of vanilla gelato topped with a shot of espresso.

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