Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that has captured the hearts of dessert lovers around the world. Traditionally made with mascarpone cheese, eggs, and coffee-soaked ladyfingers, it’s a luscious treat with layers of creamy, coffee-infused goodness.
But did you know you can create a vegetarian version that’s just as delightful and satisfying? Whether you follow a vegetarian lifestyle or want to try a meat-free twist on this beloved dessert, this tiramisu recipe will impress your taste buds and guests alike.
This vegetarian tiramisu recipe uses fresh ingredients and simple substitutions to keep all the richness and flavor intact without using any animal-derived gelatin or non-vegetarian additives. It’s perfect for special occasions or a comforting weekend treat.
Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, so you can spend more time enjoying and less time in the kitchen. Ready to dive into this creamy, dreamy, and vegetarian-friendly tiramisu?
Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetarian tiramisu is a delicious twist on the traditional recipe, ensuring everyone can enjoy it regardless of dietary preferences. It’s made with vegetarian-friendly mascarpone cheese and uses egg yolks or substitutes to keep the texture creamy and indulgent.
Not only is it rich in flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. The layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers combined with the smooth mascarpone cream create a perfect balance of bitter and sweet.
Plus, it’s a no-bake dessert, which means less fuss and faster assembly.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a comforting dessert, this tiramisu recipe is sure to impress. And if you love exploring vegetarian dishes, check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for another fantastic treat!
Ingredients
- 250g mascarpone cheese (ensure vegetarian-friendly)
- 3 large egg yolks (or vegan egg substitute if preferred)
- 100g granulated sugar
- 1 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
- 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
- 200g ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or plant-based cream for vegan version)
- Cocoa powder for dusting
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Spatula
- 9×9 inch (23×23 cm) square dish or similar serving container
- Sifter or fine mesh sieve for cocoa powder
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Prepare the coffee mixture: Brew a strong cup of espresso or coffee and let it cool completely. Stir in the coffee liqueur if using and set aside.
- Whisk egg yolks and sugar: In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until light and creamy. For safety, you can gently heat this mixture over a double boiler, whisking continuously until it thickens slightly and reaches about 160°F (71°C). Remove from heat and let cool.
- Beat the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Combine mascarpone and egg yolk mixture: Gently fold the mascarpone cheese into the cooled egg yolk mixture until smooth and well combined.
- Fold in whipped cream: Carefully fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, ensuring it remains light and airy.
- Dip ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture. Be careful not to soak them too long or they will become soggy. Lay them in a single layer at the bottom of your serving dish.
- Layer the tiramisu: Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers. Repeat the process with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and top with the remaining cream.
- Chill and set: Cover the tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Dust with cocoa powder: Just before serving, sift a generous layer of cocoa powder over the top for that classic finish.
Tips & Variations
“For a vegan-friendly tiramisu, substitute mascarpone with a blend of soaked cashews and coconut cream, and use a plant-based cream to whip. Use vegan-friendly ladyfingers or sponge cake.”
- Egg safety: If you prefer not to use raw eggs, you can find pasteurized egg yolks or try vegan substitutes like silken tofu blended smooth.
- Flavor twists: Add a hint of orange zest or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the mascarpone cream for a unique flavor profile.
- Alcohol alternatives: If you want to avoid alcohol, simply skip the coffee liqueur or replace it with a few drops of vanilla extract.
- Presentation: Serve in individual glasses or jars for an elegant touch, perfect for dinner parties.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 350 kcal |
Protein | 6g |
Fat | 22g |
Carbohydrates | 30g |
Sugar | 22g |
Fiber | 1g |
Serving Suggestions
This tiramisu pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or an espresso shot to enhance the coffee flavors in the dessert itself. For a refreshing contrast, serve with fresh berries such as raspberries or strawberries on the side.
To keep the theme of Italian-inspired vegetarian meals, you might also enjoy exploring our Best Italian Vegetarian Recipes for Delicious Meatless. For a light, creamy pasta to accompany your meal, try our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes as well.
Conclusion
Creating a vegetarian tiramisu is both rewarding and delicious, allowing you to enjoy this iconic dessert with a mindful approach to ingredients. With simple swaps and easy steps, you can produce a creamy, coffee-infused treat that stays true to its Italian roots while accommodating a vegetarian diet.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or indulging on a quiet evening at home, this tiramisu recipe will quickly become a favorite. Don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors and presentation to make it your own.
And if you’re hungry for more vegetarian delights, be sure to explore our extensive collection of recipes, including the Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes Indian Food Lovers Adore for flavorful dinner ideas.
📖 Recipe Card: Tiramisu Recipe Vegetarian
Description: A classic Italian dessert made vegetarian by using mascarpone and no gelatin. This creamy, coffee-flavored treat is perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT20M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 3 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 24 ladyfinger biscuits
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
- Mix coffee and coffee liqueur in a shallow dish.
- Whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy.
- Fold mascarpone cheese into the egg yolk mixture.
- Whip heavy cream with vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture.
- Dip ladyfingers briefly into coffee mixture and layer in a dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over ladyfingers.
- Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and mascarpone.
- Dust the top with cocoa powder and add chocolate shavings if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 7 g | Fat: 25 g | Carbs: 20 g
{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Tiramisu Recipe Vegetarian”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A classic Italian dessert made vegetarian by using mascarpone and no gelatin. This creamy, coffee-flavored treat is perfect for any occasion.”, “prepTime”: “PT20M”, “cookTime”: “PT0M”, “totalTime”: “PT20M”, “recipeYield”: “6 servings”, “recipeIngredient”: [“1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled”, “3 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)”, “3 large eggs, separated”, “1/2 cup granulated sugar”, “8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened”, “1 cup heavy cream”, “1 teaspoon vanilla extract”, “24 ladyfinger biscuits”, “Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting”, “Dark chocolate shavings (optional)”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Mix coffee and coffee liqueur in a shallow dish.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Fold mascarpone cheese into the egg yolk mixture.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Whip heavy cream with vanilla until stiff peaks form.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Dip ladyfingers briefly into coffee mixture and layer in a dish.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over ladyfingers.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and mascarpone.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Dust the top with cocoa powder and add chocolate shavings if desired.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “350 kcal”, “proteinContent”: “7 g”, “fatContent”: “25 g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “20 g”}}