Dessert

Tiramisu Trifle Recipe – Treat Indulgently

Name: Tiramisu Trifle Recipe – Treat Indulgently
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 3 packs of soft ladyfingers, sponge biscuits; 3 cups of chilled espresso or strong brewed coffee; 1 1/2 tablespoons dark rum or coffee liqueur; 1 tbsp of dark chocolate syrup; 6 large egg yolks; 1 cup of superfine sugar, sifted to remove lumps; 1 1/4 cups of creamy Mascarpone cheese; 1 3/4 cups of heavy whipping cream; 1/8 teaspoon of cream of tartar; 1 tsp of pure vanilla extract; 1 tbsp of coffee extract; 2 cups of heavy whipping cream; 2 tbsp of powdered sugar; 1/8 teaspoon of cream of tartar; 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting; Semi-sweet or dark chocolate curls; 1 tbsp of instant espresso powder

Rachel Ortiz February 2, 2025

Servings: 12 Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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When it comes to serving tiramisu trifle, the key is to balance the rich, creamy, and coffee-infused layers with light and refreshing accompaniments. A vibrant fruit salad, made with seasonal berries or citrus fruits like strawberries and blueberries, can cut through the richness of the trifle, offering a refreshing contrast.

A splash of fresh mint adds an aromatic touch that enhances the fruity sweetness. To complement the flavors of the dessert, consider pairing it with a glass of sparkling wine. The bubbles add a festive touch and provide a nice contrast to the creaminess of the tiramisu.

Alternatively, a strong espresso can enhance the coffee notes in the trifle, deepening the dessert’s flavors. For a savory prelude to your sweet finale, a light antipasto platter with marinated olives, fresh mozzarella, and thin slices of prosciutto can provide a delightful counterpoint, setting the stage for the indulgent tiramisu trifle to follow.

These pairings ensure a balanced and satisfying meal from start to finish.

Why This Recipe Works?

When I first tried out this recipe, it just clicked. I could see why it had become a favorite. Here’s why it’s a sure bet:

1. Layered Flavor Experience: The interplay between the coffee-soaked ladyfingers and the creamy mascarpone is pure bliss. Each forkful delivers a balance of sweet and robust flavors, making it memorable.

2. Texture Contrast: Soft and creamy meets light and airy. The whipped cream on top adds a delightful fluffiness that contrasts with the firmer ladyfinger base. This textural variety keeps every bite interesting.

3. Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble most of this dessert a day in advance. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it frees up your time on the day of your gathering, which is a major win in my book.

4. Visual Appeal: Let’s not forget how stunning this trifle looks. The clear glass dishes allow those lovely layers to shine. It’s an eye-catching dessert that adds elegance to any table.

How Does It Taste?

Tasting this tiramisu trifle is an experience. You’ll find the coffee flavors dance on your palate, woven together with smooth mascarpone. Imagine biting into a layer where the rich espresso meets the soft cream, creating a hug of flavors that is both comforting and indulgent.

The hint of dark rum or coffee liqueur adds depth, while a dusting of cocoa powder on top provides a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness. It’s a multifaceted tasting experience—comforting yet sophisticated.

What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Tiramisu Trifle Variations?

While you can find numerous tiramisu trifle recipes, this one stands out for a few reasons.

The Ingredients: The inclusion of dark chocolate syrup in the coffee-soaking mixture adds a rich layer of flavor that you won’t often find. It enhances not only the taste but also the overall experience.

Whipped Cream Magic: This recipe calls for whipping the heavy cream until soft peaks form and then folding it into the mascarpone. This technique creates a remarkably light texture, leading to a trifle that isn’t too dense but delivers a satisfying creaminess.

Chocolate Curls and Instant Espresso: Adding chocolate curls on top doesn’t just look pretty; it adds an extra layer of flavor and sophistication. Instant espresso powder sprinkled on top provides a welcome coffee kick that highlights the dessert’s foundation.

When you put all these elements together, what you have isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience wrapped in a glass.

The Ingredients

Ready to create this masterpiece? Here’s what you’ll need:

Ladyfinger Layer

3 packs of soft ladyfingers, sponge biscuits
3 cups of chilled espresso or strong brewed coffee
1 ½ tbsp dark rum or coffee liqueur
1 tbsp of dark chocolate syrup

Tiramisu Cream

6 large egg yolks
1 cup of superfine sugar, sifted to remove lumps
1 ¼ cups of creamy Mascarpone cheese
1 ¾ cups of heavy whipping cream
⅛ tsp of cream of tartar (optional)
1 tsp of pure vanilla extract
1 tbsp of coffee extract

Topping

2 cups of heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp of powdered sugar
⅛ tsp of cream of tartar
3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate curls
1 tbsp of instant espresso powder

Instructions

Let’s walk through the steps to make this delicious trifle.

Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Mixture

In a bowl, combine the chilled espresso (or strong brewed coffee) with dark rum and dark chocolate syrup. Give it a good stir and set it aside. This mixture is the soul of your tiramisu trifle, so don’t skimp on quality ingredients. Use fresh coffee for the best flavor.

Step 2: Assemble the Ladyfinger Layer

Take out a trifle dish or individual serving cups. Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, ensuring they soak up flavor but don’t become too soggy. Place a layer of the soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of your dish.

Step 3: Make the Tiramisu Cream

In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until it becomes pale and thick. This step is crucial; it provides the base of your cream. Next, fold in the mascarpone cheese until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture. This folding creates a light, airy texture.

Step 4: Layer the Cream Mixture

Spread a generous layer of the tiramisu cream over the ladyfingers. Repeat the process, creating additional layers of dipped ladyfingers and tiramisu cream until the dish is full. Leave some space at the top for the whipped cream topping.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form. Spread this whipped cream over the final layer of tiramisu cream.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

Dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder, adding a touch of elegance. For a delightful extra, sprinkle instant espresso powder and add chocolate curls.

Step 7: Chill

Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait. This allows flavors to develop and meld perfectly.

Notes: Tips for Success

Quality Matters: Use high-quality coffee and mascarpone cheese. These two ingredients are key for achieving the best flavor.
Egg Safety: If you’re concerned about using raw egg yolks, consider pasteurized eggs for your tiramisu cream.
Ladyfinger Soaking: Don’t dip the ladyfingers for too long. They should be moist, not mushy.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with liqueurs based on your preference. Hazelnut liqueur can add a wonderful twist.
Serving: This dessert works well in both individual cups or a large trifle dish, making it flexible for gatherings.

How Do You Store This Tiramisu Trifle?

If somehow you have leftovers (which is rare for this enticing dessert!), here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerate: Store the trifle covered in the refrigerator. It will stay good for about 3 to 4 days.
Avoid Freezing: I do not recommend freezing this trifle. The creamy textures may not hold up well after thawing.

Sides for Tiramisu Trifle

The perfect dessert deserves the right sides. Here are a few ideas:

1. Zesty Italian Salad: A salad with crisp greens, tomatoes, and a tangy homemade dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the rich trifle.

2. Classic Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with a mix of diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil is a great starter that doesn’t overwhelm the palate.

3. Grilled Veggies: A platter of lightly seasoned grilled vegetables adds a smoky flavor that balances sweetness from the dessert.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?

Not all kitchens are stocked the same! Here are some substitutes you can opt for:

1. Ladyfingers: If you can’t find ladyfingers, you might use pound cake or vanilla sponge cake cut into strips.

2. Mascarpone Cheese: Cream cheese can work in a pinch, but mix it with a bit of heavy cream to mimic mascarpone’s texture and flavor.

3. Espresso: If you’re out of espresso, brew a strong cup of regular coffee. Add an extra scoop of coffee extract for more punch.

4. Heavy Whipping Cream: In the absence of heavy cream, you can use coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Just chill it first, then whip it for fluffiness.

Conclusion

In the end, making a tiramisu trifle isn’t just about preparing a dessert; it’s about creating a centerpiece for enjoyment. This delightful trifle speaks to anyone who loves coffee and cream. It showcases ingredients and techniques that come together to deliver something more than just a sweet treat.

You’re not just serving a dessert; you’re offering an experience that invites people to slow down. So, whether you’re hosting friends or having a quiet night in, this tiramisu trifle is a fantastic addition to the table.

Go ahead and make this scrumptious treat, and watch as it becomes a favorite for everyone who tries it!

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Print Recipe

Tiramisu Trifle Recipe – Treat Indulgently

Author: Rachel Ortiz Cuisine: Italian Courses: Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 1 hr Total Time 1 hr 10 mins

Servings: 12 Calories: 650 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

So, let me take you on a journey through layers of coffee and cream. Tiramisu trifle is not your everyday dessert; it’s like a little celebration in a glass.

Imagine digging into a trifle loaded with airy mascarpone, ladyfingers soaked in rich espresso, and topped with creamy whipped goodness. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time, and it brings joy with every bite.

The origins of tiramisu trace back to Italy, a country renowned for its culinary creativity. Though the traditional tiramisu is a delightful concoction on its own, this trifle version takes that favorite dessert and gives it a fresh twist—perfect for gatherings or an indulgent treat after dinner.

Why is this recipe special? Let’s explore some intriguing insights.