No Coffee Tiramisu Recipe That Everyone Will Love

Updated On: October 14, 2025

Tiramisu is one of those iconic desserts that instantly transports you to a cozy Italian café, with its luscious layers of creamy mascarpone and delicate ladyfingers. But what if you want to enjoy this classic treat without the coffee that traditionally soaks the biscuits?

Whether you’re avoiding caffeine, catering to kids, or simply looking for a fresh twist on a beloved dessert, this no coffee tiramisu recipe is the perfect solution. It keeps all the indulgent creaminess and texture you love, with a subtle, sweet flavor that everyone can enjoy.

Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it ideal for both novice bakers and tiramisu enthusiasts alike.

In this recipe, we’ll replace the coffee with a fragrant vanilla and cocoa mixture that complements the mascarpone beautifully. So, get ready to delight your taste buds with a smooth, dreamy dessert that’s as elegant as it is comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This no coffee tiramisu is a game changer for several reasons. First, it’s caffeine-free, so everyone from kids to those sensitive to coffee can enjoy it.

The classic coffee flavor is swapped for a subtle blend of vanilla and cocoa, which adds a gentle richness without overpowering the delicate layers.

The recipe stays true to the traditional tiramisu’s texture — creamy mascarpone, soft ladyfingers, and a dusting of cocoa powder — but introduces a fresh, light flavor profile that’s perfect for any occasion.

It’s also incredibly easy to make ahead, letting the flavors meld overnight for the best experience. If you love desserts that feel indulgent but are surprisingly straightforward, you’ll find this recipe a keeper.

Ingredients

  • 3 large eggs, separated
  • 100 grams (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
  • 250 grams (1 cup) mascarpone cheese, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 pack (about 200 grams) ladyfinger biscuits
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur or rum (for a boozy kick, can be omitted)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (at least two)
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Spatula
  • 9×9 inch (23×23 cm) square dish or similar-sized serving dish
  • Sieve for dusting cocoa powder
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

  1. Separate the eggs into two bowls: yolks in one, whites in another. Make sure no yolk gets into the whites.
  2. Beat the egg yolks and sugar together using an electric mixer or whisk until the mixture is pale and creamy, about 5 minutes.
  3. Gently fold in the mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract to the yolk mixture until smooth and well combined. This will form your rich, creamy base.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This will lighten your mascarpone mixture, giving the tiramisu its signature airy texture.
  5. Carefully fold the egg whites into the mascarpone mixture in two batches, using a spatula to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
  6. Prepare the vanilla-cocoa soak: In a shallow dish, combine the milk, cocoa powder, and if using, coffee liqueur or rum. Stir until the cocoa is fully dissolved.
  7. Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the vanilla-cocoa milk mixture. Do not soak them too long — just a quick dip so they absorb some flavor but remain firm.
  8. Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers evenly on the bottom of your serving dish.
  9. Spread half the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, smoothing the surface with your spatula.
  10. Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers on top of the mascarpone layer, then spread the remaining mascarpone mixture evenly over them.
  11. Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
  12. Before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder using a sieve for a beautiful finish.

Tips & Variations

“For a nutty twist, sprinkle finely chopped toasted hazelnuts or almonds between the layers before refrigerating.”

  • Egg safety: Since this recipe uses raw eggs, ensure you use the freshest eggs possible or pasteurized eggs for safety.
  • Dairy-free option: Substitute mascarpone with a blend of vegan cream cheese and coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
  • Flavor twists: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the mascarpone mixture for a citrusy note or swap vanilla extract with almond extract.
  • Alcohol-free: Simply omit the coffee liqueur or rum for a family-friendly dessert.
  • Presentation: Serve in individual glasses for elegant single portions, layering ladyfingers and mascarpone cream in smaller amounts.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1/8th)
Calories 320 kcal
Fat 22 g
Saturated Fat 13 g
Carbohydrates 24 g
Sugars 16 g
Protein 6 g
Cholesterol 125 mg
Sodium 85 mg

Serving Suggestions

This no coffee tiramisu is a versatile dessert that pairs wonderfully with a variety of occasions and accompaniments. Serve it chilled as a perfect finale to an Italian-inspired meal or a sweet treat at brunch.

For a festive touch, garnish with fresh berries or a sprig of mint to add a pop of color and freshness.

For those who enjoy a little crunch, add a side of biscotti or almond cookies. If you want to complement the dessert with a beverage, consider a glass of sparkling water with lemon or a light herbal tea to balance the richness of the tiramisu.

Looking for more delicious and easy recipes to try? Check out these favorites: Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide, Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals, and Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

Conclusion

This no coffee tiramisu recipe is an excellent way to enjoy the timeless flavors and textures of tiramisu without the coffee. It’s a delightful alternative for those who prefer a milder, caffeine-free dessert or want to share this Italian classic with family members who might avoid coffee for various reasons.

With its luscious mascarpone cream, soft ladyfingers, and gentle vanilla-cocoa soak, it satisfies every craving for a rich yet refreshing dessert.

By following the simple steps outlined above, you’ll create a dessert that’s impressive enough for special occasions but easy enough for a midweek treat. Plus, the recipe’s flexibility allows you to customize it to your taste and dietary needs.

Whether you’re a tiramisu aficionado or a dessert novice, this coffee-free version is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

📖 Recipe Card: No Coffee Tiramisu

Description: A delicious tiramisu recipe without coffee, using chocolate milk for a rich and creamy flavor. Perfect for those who prefer a caffeine-free dessert.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT4H20M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup chocolate milk
  • 24 ladyfinger cookies
  • 8 oz mascarpone cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions

  1. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
  2. In a separate bowl, blend mascarpone cheese with granulated sugar until smooth.
  3. Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture.
  4. Dip ladyfingers quickly into chocolate milk and layer them in a dish.
  5. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over ladyfingers.
  6. Repeat dipping ladyfingers and layering with remaining mascarpone mixture.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
  8. Before serving, dust with cocoa powder and sprinkle chocolate shavings.

Nutrition: Calories: 320 | Protein: 6g | Fat: 22g | Carbs: 24g

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Marta K

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