If you love coffee-flavored desserts, this Tiramisu Layer Cake will be your new favorite. Unlike traditional tiramisu, which is made with ladyfingers, this cake features soft, moist layers infused with espresso and layered with a creamy mascarpone filling.
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, or holiday, or simply craving a decadent treat, this cake is easy to make and delicious.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich coffee flavor – Every layer is infused with espresso for a deep, bold taste.
- Ultra-creamy mascarpone filling – Light, smooth, and not overly sweet.
- Perfectly moist cake – Soft, fluffy texture that absorbs the coffee syrup without getting soggy.
- Elegant yet simple – A great dessert for special occasions or casual indulgence.
Ingredients You Need
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Espresso Syrup:
- 1 cup brewed espresso (or strong coffee)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
For the Mascarpone Cream:
- 2 cups mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnishing:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Chocolate shavings (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Bake the Cake Layers
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch cake pans.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one by one, mixing well. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture and milk, alternating between the two.
- Divide the batter evenly into the pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Let them cool completely before assembling the cake.
2. Prepare the Espresso Syrup
- In a saucepan, heat espresso and sugar over low heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat and stir in coffee liqueur (if using).
- Let it cool completely.
3. Make the Mascarpone Cream
- Beat mascarpone, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Be careful not to overbeat, or it will turn grainy.
- Refrigerate until ready to use.
4. Assemble the Cake
- Place the first cake layer on a plate.
- Brush generously with espresso syrup to infuse coffee flavor.
- Spread a thick layer of mascarpone cream over the top.
- Place the second cake layer and repeat the process.
- Cover the entire cake with the remaining mascarpone cream.
- Dust with cocoa powder and add chocolate shavings for a finishing touch.
5. Let It Set and Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours before slicing.
- This helps the flavors blend and makes it easier to cut.
Pro Tips for the Best Tiramisu Cake
✅ Use freshly brewed espresso – Instant coffee doesn’t deliver the same deep flavor.
✅ Don’t skip the soaking syrup – This keeps the cake moist and flavorful.
✅ Let it chill before serving – The flavors develop even more when refrigerated.
✅ Avoid overbeating mascarpone – Stop mixing once it’s smooth and fluffy.
✅ Use a fine-mesh sieve for cocoa powder – This ensures an even dusting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Not soaking the cake enough – Dry cake layers won’t have the signature tiramisu taste.
❌ Overmixing the mascarpone cream – This can make it grainy.
❌ Skipping the chilling time – The cake won’t have the best texture or flavor.
❌ Using low-quality coffee – The espresso flavor is key, so use high-quality coffee.
How to Store & Serve Tiramisu Layer Cake
- Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Best served cold – The flavors and texture improve when chilled.
FAQs About Tiramisu Layer Cake
1. Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso?
Yes, but it won’t have the same depth of flavor as freshly brewed espresso.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
3. Is there a substitute for mascarpone cheese?
You can mix cream cheese and heavy cream for a similar texture.
4. How do I prevent the cake from becoming soggy?
Use just enough espresso syrup to moisten the cake—don’t drench it.
5. Can I make this cake without alcohol?
Yes! Simply skip the coffee liqueur.
6. What kind of cocoa powder should I use?
Use unsweetened cocoa powder for the best results.
7. Can I add chocolate ganache?
Yes! A thin layer of ganache between cake layers adds extra richness.
8. How can I make a gluten-free version?
Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
9. What’s the best way to slice this cake neatly?
Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for perfect slices.
10. Can I add a layer of coffee-flavored whipped cream?
Yes! A light coffee whipped cream makes a great topping.
Final Thoughts
This Tiramisu Layer Cake is a perfect combination of rich espresso flavor, creamy mascarpone, and moist cake layers. It’s easy to make, looks stunning, and tastes even better than traditional tiramisu.
If you’re looking for a coffee-flavored dessert that stands out, this cake is the ultimate choice. Try it today, and you’ll see why it’s a favorite for special occasions!