Tiramisu Cheesecake (Alcohol-Free): How to Make a Rich and Satisfying Dessert
The Tiramisu Cheesecake (Alcohol-Free) is a rich and satisfying dessert that combines the best of two worlds: the creamy, tangy texture of classic cheesecake and the coffee-flavored layers of the beloved Italian dessert, tiramisu.
This version omits the alcohol, making it perfect for family-friendly gatherings or those who prefer to enjoy the flavors of tiramisu without the liqueur. It’s a luxurious dessert with layers of coffee-soaked cookies, mascarpone-infused cheesecake filling, and a dusting of cocoa powder, offering the perfect combination of sweetness and coffee’s bold depth.
The origins of tiramisu date back to the 1960s in Italy, where it was created in the Veneto region. Tiramisu, which translates to "pick me up" in Italian, became popular for its energizing blend of coffee, mascarpone, and cocoa. Traditionally, tiramisu includes a splash of coffee liqueur or Marsala wine to add a slight alcoholic warmth, but this cheesecake version maintains the essence of tiramisu without the alcohol, making it more versatile.
Cheesecake, meanwhile, has a much longer history, with roots that go back to ancient Greece. The combination of tiramisu and cheesecake is a more recent culinary innovation, likely emerging in the late 20th century as chefs began to experiment with blending classic desserts. The creamy mascarpone and tangy cheesecake filling in this recipe, paired with coffee-soaked layers, create a rich yet light dessert that feels indulgent but is balanced by the depth of coffee.
A fun fact about tiramisu is that it was initially regarded as an aphrodisiac due to its caffeine content and energizing ingredients, which is reflected in its playful name. In this alcohol-free version, you still get the richness and satisfaction of tiramisu, but with a lighter, family-friendly twist.
This tiramisu cheesecake combines the best of two beloved desserts—cheesecake and tiramisu.
With layers of creamy mascarpone, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and a rich cheesecake filling, this alcohol-free version is perfect for everyone, including kids and those avoiding alcohol.
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened (680 g)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 10 ladyfinger 10-12 cookies
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- Cocoa powder for dusting
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the springform pan to form the crust.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool while preparing the filling.
- In a shallow dish, pour the cooled brewed coffee. Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the coffee mixture, allowing it to soak for just a few seconds.
- Arrange the soaked ladyfingers over the cooled crust, forming an even layer.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and beat until creamy.
- Add the vanilla extract, sour cream, and mascarpone cheese, and mix well until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated. Add the flour and mix until just combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers in the springform pan.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Once chilled, top with whipped cream. In a bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, then spread or pipe it over the cheesecake.
- Dust with cocoa powder before serving.
Ensure that the ladyfingers are dipped briefly in the coffee mixture; over-soaking will make them too mushy.
For extra sweetness, drizzle some chocolate syrup over the top before serving.
With a foundation in French culinary tradition and a flair for fusion cuisine, Chef Isabelle Laurent brings gourmet techniques to everyday meals. Trained in a virtual culinary institute, Isabelle specializes in elevating simple recipes with refined methods, blending classic French techniques with global flavors. Her approachable style and expert guidance make even the most sophisticated dishes accessible to home cooks of all levels. Known for her creativity, Isabelle believes in transforming ordinary ingredients into extraordinary meals, from classic fried chicken to indulgent espresso cheesecake.
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