Simple Homemade Chocolate Tiramisu: Classic Italian Dessert Recipe

Indulge in this luscious chocolate tiramisu that’s both simple to make and irresistibly delicious. With a perfect balance of rich chocolate, creamy mascarpone, and a hint of coffee liqueur, this dessert is sure to impress.

Tiramisu, meaning ‘pick me up’ in Italian, is a beloved dessert that never fails to satisfy. This chocolate twist on the classic recipe combines the traditional coffee-soaked ladyfingers with a velvety chocolate mascarpone cream, creating a heavenly treat that’s impossible to resist.

What sets this chocolate tiramisu apart is its perfect moisture level and the harmonious blend of chocolate and coffee flavors. The addition of Kahlúa gives it an extra kick, making it an ideal dessert for both casual gatherings and special occasions.

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between ease and indulgence. Store-bought ladyfingers simplify the process, while the homemade chocolate mascarpone cream adds a touch of luxury. The result? A dessert that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare, but can be whipped up in no time.

For the best results, allow the tiramisu to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the ladyfingers to fully soften, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture that tiramisu is famous for.

Irresistible Chocolate Tiramisu Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups strong brewed coffee (see note)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, divided
• 5 tablespoons coffee liquor such as Kahlua (optional), divided (see note)
• 28 ladyfinger cookies
• 2 cups (about 17 1/2 ounces) mascarpone, slightly softened
• 3 ounces bittersweet chocolate, melted
• 6 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar, divided
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract, divided
• 2 cups heavy cream, very cold
• Cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

1. Prepare the coffee mixture by combining coffee, granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon cocoa, and 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) coffee liquor in a liquid measuring cup. Arrange 14 ladyfinger cookies in a single layer at the bottom of the pan. Generously soak the ladyfingers with half of the coffee mixture using a pastry brush or spoon.
2. In a large bowl, gently whisk together mascarpone, melted chocolate, 3 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar, remaining 1 tablespoon coffee liquor (if using), and 1 teaspoon vanilla until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix. Spread this mixture evenly over the soaked ladyfingers and smooth the top. Place another layer of 14 ladyfingers over the mascarpone mixture and soak with the remaining coffee mixture.
3. Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer, whip the cream with the remaining 3 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar, remaining tablespoon cocoa, and remaining 2 teaspoons vanilla until medium peaks form. Spread this chocolate whipped cream over the soaked ladyfingers, creating a smooth top layer.
4. Refrigerate the tiramisu for 1 to 2 hours to allow the ladyfingers to soften completely. Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder and cut into squares.

Recipe Notes

If you prefer not to use coffee liquor, increase the amount of coffee to 1 3/4 cups for the perfect moisture balance.