Decadent Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe

Indulge in the heavenly fusion of two beloved desserts with this tantalizing tiramisu cheesecake recipe. Combining the rich flavors of espresso, Kahlua, and velvety mascarpone cheese, this cheesecake is a decadent treat that mirrors the classic taste of tiramisu.

As a devoted fan of tiramisu, I couldn’t resist creating this delightful cheesecake variation that captures the essence of the beloved Italian dessert. The anticipation of waiting for this cheesecake to set is the ultimate test of patience, but the reward is beyond satisfying.

Prepare to have your taste buds dazzled as you savor the luscious layers of this tiramisu cheesecake, where every bite is a harmonious blend of creamy cheesecake and robust coffee flavors. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that promises to fulfill all your tiramisu dreams in a single slice.

Ingredients

Creating a mouthwatering tiramisu cheesecake requires a perfect balance of ingredients. Let’s delve into the key components that make this dessert a true showstopper.

Chocolate Crust

• 35 chocolate creme cookies (455 g)
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (85 g)

Cheesecake Filling

• 24 oz full-fat cream cheese, room temperature (3 8 oz blocks, 680 g)
• 8 oz good-quality mascarpone (e.g., Galbani), room temperature (226 g)
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (325 g)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• ½ cup heavy cream (120 g)
• 1 cup sour cream (240 g)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Assembly

• 12 ladyfinger biscuits
• ½ cup strong black coffee

Coffee Mascarpone Cream

• 4 oz good-quality mascarpone, cold (113 g)
• 2–4 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon instant coffee + 1 teaspoon water
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled (240 g)

Decoration

• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder for dusting

Equipment Needed

For this tiramisu cheesecake recipe, you will need the following equipment to ensure a smooth and successful baking experience:

1. Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer
   Essential for blending the cheesecake filling and coffee mascarpone cream to a creamy consistency.
2. 10-inch Springform Pan (3 inches tall)
   This ensures the batter fits perfectly without overflow.
3. Mixing Bowls
   Keep multiple mixing bowls ready for preparing each component.
4. Whisk and Spatula
   Indispensable tools for gently folding ingredients and achieving a smooth texture.
5. Measuring Cups and Spoons
   Accuracy is key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
6. Coffee Maker or Strong Brewed Coffee Setup
   A rich coffee base is essential for infusing authentic tiramisu flavor into the dessert.

Preparation Steps

Preparing the Chocolate Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grind the chocolate creme cookies and melted butter in a food processor until a fine crumb forms.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a lightly buttered 10-inch springform pan. Pack it tightly, bringing the crumbs slightly up the edges while keeping most of it on the bottom.
4. Bake for 7–8 minutes, then set aside to cool while preparing the filling.

Mixing the Cheesecake Filling

1. Adjust the oven temperature to 320°F (160°C).
2. Beat cream cheese, mascarpone, granulated sugar, vanilla, and salt in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment for 2–3 minutes on medium-low speed until smooth. Scrape the bowl as needed.
3. In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the eggs (do not overbeat). Slowly add eggs to the cheese mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
4. Add heavy cream, sour cream, and sifted cornstarch. Mix on low speed until fully incorporated, scraping the bowl occasionally to ensure even mixing.

Assembling & Baking

1. Seal the outside of your springform pan tightly with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in.
2. Pour half of the filling into the cooled crust, gently smoothing it out. Tap the pan on the counter to remove air bubbles.
3. Quickly dip the ladyfingers into the coffee, ensuring they don’t soak too much, and layer them closely over the cheesecake batter. Cut smaller pieces to fill any gaps.
4. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter on top, filling the pan just beneath the brim. Smooth out the surface and tap again to release air bubbles.
5. Place a large tray in your oven and fill it with 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) of boiling water. Place the cheesecake pan inside the tray for a water bath.
6. Bake for ~80 minutes, keeping the oven closed for at least 75 minutes. The cheesecake is ready when the edges are firm, but the center is still slightly jiggly.
7. Cool at room temperature for 15 minutes. Run a butter knife along the edge to loosen the cheesecake but do not open the pan. Cool for 2–3 hours, then refrigerate overnight (no cover needed during this time).

Coffee Mascarpone Cream

The next day, whisk mascarpone, sugar, and coffee (dissolved in water) in a bowl until smooth.

Gradually add chilled heavy cream and whisk on low speed until stiff peaks form.

Decoration & Serving

Decoration

1. Transfer the Cheesecake: Once your tiramisu cheesecake has chilled overnight, carefully remove it from the springform pan. Use a flat spatula to gently loosen the edges before transferring it to a serving platter. A cake lifter can also be helpful to maintain integrity while transferring.
2. Spread Coffee Mascarpone Cream: Apply a thin, even layer of coffee mascarpone cream over the top of the cheesecake. This not only enhances flavor but also provides a smooth base for additional decorations.
3. Piping and Patterning: Fill a piping bag with the remaining coffee mascarpone cream. Use a star tip or any decorative nozzle you prefer to pipe patterns across the top of the cheesecake. Consider a spiral, zigzag, or rosette design to add visual appeal.
4. Dusting with Cocoa Powder: Use a fine-mesh sieve to dust the top of the cheesecake with cocoa powder. Hold the sieve about 6 inches above the surface for an even dusting. This final touch adds a classic tiramisu aesthetic.
5. Garnishing Options: For added flair, consider garnishing with chocolate curls, espresso beans, or shavings of dark chocolate. A sprig of mint can also add a touch of color and freshness.

Serving

1. Slicing Techniques: For clean slices, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it clean before each cut. This helps achieve smooth, neat slices that maintain the layer distinction between crust, filling, and topping.
2. Plating Suggestions: Serve slices on individual dessert plates. For an elegant presentation, drizzle each plate with chocolate or coffee sauce before placing the cheesecake slice. Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed chocolate cookies for texture contrast.
3. Pairing Recommendations: Pair your tiramisu cheesecake with a rich espresso or a sweet dessert wine. The bitterness of coffee contrasts beautifully with the creamy sweetness of the dessert.

Final Tips

• Use a 10-inch pan (3 inches tall). If using a 9-inch pan, expect leftover batter. Avoid overfilling the pan to prevent spills.
• Dip ladyfingers briefly—just enough to coat the surface—since they’ll absorb moisture during baking.
• For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped between cuts.

Storage Tips

Refrigerating

1. Covering: After serving, cover the remaining cheesecake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Make sure the covering is tight to prevent any refrigerator odors from affecting the cheesecake’s delicate flavors.
2. Placement: Store the cheesecake on a flat, stable shelf in the refrigerator. Avoid stacking anything on top to maintain the layered structure.
3. Duration: When refrigerated, the cheesecake remains fresh and flavorful for up to 5 days. The structure and taste improve as the flavors meld.

Freezing Options

1. Initial Wrapping: For longer storage, wrap the entire cheesecake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap. Ensure no part of the cheesecake is exposed.
2. Secondary Wrapping: Follow the plastic wrap with a layer of aluminum foil or place it in an airtight, freezer-safe container. This double wrapping protects against freezer burn and maintains quality.
3. Freezer Storage: The cheesecake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label the wrap with the date to keep track of storage time.
4. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the cheesecake in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent texture loss. Once thawed, it will be just as delicious as the day it was made.

Following these steps ensures that every serving of your tiramisu cheesecake is as delightful as the first, whether enjoyed immediately or saved for later indulgence.

Conclusion

Creating a tiramisu cheesecake is a delightful culinary adventure that blends the best of two beloved desserts. With its rich coffee flavor, delicate layers, and creamy mascarpone filling, each bite is a little piece of dessert heaven. Whether for a special occasion or a sweet indulgence, this tiramisu cheesecake promises an unforgettable experience for your taste buds.

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