Tiramisu Cheesecake – A Heavenly Fusion of Two Classics

Tiramisu and cheesecake are two beloved desserts, each with their own devoted fan base. But what happens when you combine them? Pure magic. This Tiramisu Cheesecake is the perfect blend of creamy, velvety cheesecake and the rich, coffee-soaked flavors of classic tiramisu. It’s an indulgent dessert that brings together the best of both worlds.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something decadent, this cheesecake will impress. Each bite is a luscious mix of espresso-infused layers, mascarpone goodness, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Topped with a dusting of cocoa powder, it’s elegant enough for a dinner party yet easy enough for a weekend treat.

Let’s dive into this incredible recipe and bring a little café-style indulgence to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The Best of Both Worlds – Classic tiramisu flavors meet the rich texture of cheesecake.
• Perfect for Special Occasions – This dessert looks and tastes gourmet, making it ideal for celebrations.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Cheesecake always tastes better the next day, so you can prepare it in advance.
• No Water Bath Needed – This recipe keeps things simple while still delivering a creamy, smooth texture.
• Coffee Lovers’ Dream – With espresso-soaked ladyfingers and a hint of coffee in the filling, it’s the ultimate treat for caffeine enthusiasts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz (3 blocks) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mascarpone cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon espresso powder

For the Tiramisu Layer:

• ½ cup strongly brewed coffee, cooled
• 10-12 ladyfingers
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Topping:

• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

How to Make Tiramisu Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crumbs firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, mascarpone cheese, sour cream, and espresso powder. Beat until fully combined and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Tiramisu Layer

Dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee for about 1-2 seconds. You want them soaked but not overly soggy. Arrange the coffee-soaked ladyfingers in a single layer over the baked crust. Sprinkle with sugar to enhance the sweetness and help them slightly caramelize while baking.

Step 4: Pour and Bake

Gently pour the cheesecake filling over the ladyfinger layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 55-65 minutes or until the center is slightly jiggly but set around the edges. Turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually for about an hour.

Step 5: Chill the Cheesecake

Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, cover it and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or, ideally, overnight. This helps the flavors develop and ensures a firm texture.

Step 6: Make the Whipped Cream Topping

Just before serving, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the cheesecake and finish with a generous dusting of cocoa powder.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice it into generous portions, and enjoy every creamy, coffee-kissed bite!

Helpful Tips

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This helps the cheesecake mixture blend smoothly, preventing lumps.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in the cheesecake.
• Cool Gradually – Letting the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open prevents sudden temperature changes that can cause cracking.
• Make It Ahead – Cheesecake tastes even better after chilling overnight, so plan ahead for the best flavor.
• Perfect Slices – Dip a knife in hot water and wipe it clean between slices for picture-perfect servings.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 7+ hours (including chilling time)
• Yield: 10-12 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

• Make-Ahead Dessert: This cheesecake is best when chilled overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Crust Alternatives: Instead of graham crackers, you can use crushed vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or even chocolate cookies for a unique twist.
• Ladyfinger Soaking Tip: Be careful not to over-soak the ladyfingers in coffee. A quick dip (1-2 seconds) is enough to soften them without making them mushy.
• Chilling Time is Key: The longer the cheesecake chills, the better the texture and flavor. Six hours is the minimum, but overnight is ideal.
• Cocoa Powder Dusting: For a picture-perfect finish, use a fine mesh sieve to evenly dust the cocoa powder on top before serving.
• Serving Suggestion: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle a bit of chocolate or caramel sauce over each slice.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator:

Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezer:

For longer storage, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of mascarpone?

Yes! While mascarpone adds an authentic tiramisu flavor, you can substitute it with more cream cheese if needed.

What can I use instead of ladyfingers?

If you don’t have ladyfingers, a layer of sponge cake or vanilla wafers can work as an alternative.

Can I make this cheesecake without coffee?

You can, but it won’t have that classic tiramisu taste. Try using a coffee substitute like chicory or a mild hot cocoa for a different flavor twist.

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Avoid overmixing the batter, don’t overbake, and let it cool slowly in the oven before refrigerating.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Tiramisu Cheesecake, here are a few more desserts you might enjoy:

• Vegan Tiramisu Cheesecake: A Decadent Dessert Worth Savoring
• Cherry Tiramisu – A Delightful Twist on a Classic
• Decadent Chocolate Tiramisu
• Cottage Cheese Protein Brownies

Conclusion

This Tiramisu Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for coffee lovers and cheesecake enthusiasts alike. With its smooth, creamy texture and deep espresso-infused flavor, it’s a showstopper that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or just because you deserve a treat, this cheesecake is guaranteed to be a hit.

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