Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe: A Decadent Coffee-Infused Dessert!

There’s something undeniably satisfying about taking two classic desserts—tiramisu and cheesecake—and combining them into one indulgent creation.

This Tiramisu Cheesecake takes everything you love about the creamy, coffee-infused layers of traditional tiramisu and wraps it in a rich, velvety cheesecake base.

The result? An elegant dessert that’s just as comforting as it is show-stopping. It’s a perfect pairing with other sweet treats, like Chocolate Sugar Cookies or Sourdough Peanut Butter Cookies, if you’re looking to offer a variety of flavors.

I first stumbled upon this hybrid treat during a dinner party, and let me tell you, it was an absolute hit. The contrast between the smooth cheesecake and the coffee-soaked ladyfingers is a flavor experience you won’t soon forget.

What’s So Great About This Dish?

• Decadent and satisfying: It’s like the best of both worlds—tiramisu’s bold coffee flavor and the creamy goodness of cheesecake.
• Perfect for entertaining: This dessert looks and tastes impressive, making it ideal for holidays or dinner parties.
• Make-ahead magic: It’s even better the next day, so you can prepare it in advance and relax.

Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe

This Tiramisu Cheesecake combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the classic flavors of tiramisu. With layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and a smooth mascarpone filling, it's the perfect dessert for coffee lovers. A decadent twist on a beloved classic!

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Prep Time 5 hours hrs

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 5 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Equipment

• 9-inch springform pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Spatula
• Sifter
• Oven

Ingredients

  

crust

• 1 1/4 cup vanilla wafer crumbs
• 1/4 cup salted butter melted
• 1 1/2 tbsp sugar

CHEESECAKE FILLING

• 8 oz cream cheese room temperature
• 16 oz mascarpone cheese room temperature
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream cold
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

KAHLUA MIXTURE*

• 3 tbsp warm water
• 2 tbsp instant espresso powder
• 1 cup Kahlua
• 12 ladyfingers

KAHLUA WHIPPED CREAM

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream cold
• 1/4 cup Kahlua mixture remaining from above, cold
• 10 tbsp powdered sugar
• Cocoa optional

Instructions

 

CRUST

• Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and grease the sides.
• Mix crust ingredients well and press into the bottom of the pan.
  
• Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
  

FILLING

• Beat cream cheese, mascarpone, and sugar together on medium-low speed until smooth. Set aside.
  
• Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form, then fold into the mascarpone mixture.
  
• Combine warm water and espresso powder with Kahlua. Dip ladyfingers in the mixture and arrange over the cooled crust.
  
• Spread the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
  
• Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for 5-6 hours or overnight.

FINISHING

• Whip heavy cream, remaining Kahlua mixture, and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
  
• Remove cheesecake from the pan, smooth the sides, and top with Kahlua whipped cream.
  
• Sprinkle with cocoa powder and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  

Nutrition Info:

Variations that Will Help You Customize Your Dish

• Substitute Ladyfingers with Oreos or Chocolate Cookies: For a rich, chocolatey crust and filling, swap the traditional ladyfingers for crushed Oreos or any chocolate cookies. This adds a more decadent chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling. You can even soak the Oreos in the Kahlua mixture to create a stronger flavor base.
• Use Flavored Liqueurs: If you want to change the flavor profile, swap Kahlua with a different coffee liqueur or even a flavored liqueur like Baileys Irish Cream or Amaretto. Each liqueur will add a unique twist—Baileys brings a creamy, slightly sweet edge, while Amaretto offers a nutty undertone.
• Add Cocoa Powder to the Filling: For a more chocolate-forward cheesecake, you can add unsweetened cocoa powder directly into the filling mixture. Start with 2-3 tablespoons and adjust to taste. This will enhance the chocolate flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Make It Dairy-Free or Vegan: For a dairy-free or vegan version, use vegan cream cheese and mascarpone alternatives. Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or another non-dairy whipping cream. Be sure to check that the powdered sugar you use is vegan-friendly, as some brands may use bone char in processing.
• Incorporate Crushed Espresso Beans or Chocolate Shavings: For added texture and flavor, sprinkle crushed espresso beans or chocolate shavings between layers or on top of the cheesecake. This complements the rich, creamy filling while adding a satisfying crunch and an extra burst of flavor.
• Add a Layer of Chocolate Ganache: For a more indulgent treat, drizzle a layer of chocolate ganache on top of the cheesecake before adding the Kahlua whipped cream. The ganache will add a smooth, glossy finish and a rich chocolatey flavor.
• Infuse the Crust with Flavors: Mix in a dash of cinnamon or coffee grounds to the crust mixture for a more complex flavor profile. A little ground cinnamon or finely ground espresso will create a subtle spice and deepen the flavors of the crust.
• Make a No-Bake Version: If you’re looking for a quicker version, you can skip the baking step for the crust and simply chill it in the fridge for an hour to firm up. This is especially helpful if you’re in a time crunch or want to avoid using the oven.