Save
This tiramisu dip captures all the classic flavors of tiramisu without the wait. It blends creamy mascarpone and rich cream cheese with espresso and cocoa for an indulgent treat that comes together in just ten minutes. Perfect for when you want something sweet and sophisticated but need it fast.
I first made this dip for a last-minute gathering and was amazed at how everyone loved the familiar tiramisu flavors in such a quick and easy form.
Ingredients
- Heavy cream: whips up into a light base to carry espresso and cocoa pick fresh cream with at least 36 percent fat
- Instant espresso powder: dissolves easily in cream to give authentic coffee flavor without bitterness
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: adds the perfect chocolate depth choose a high-quality Dutch-processed variety for smoother taste
- Mascarpone: the essential creamy and mildly tangy cheese that gives tiramisu its signature richness look for full-fat for best texture
- Cream cheese: balances mascarpone with tang and thickens the dip for immediate dippability use softened to blend smoothly
- Confectioners’ sugar: fine sugar dissolves quickly for smooth sweetness
- Pure vanilla extract: enhances all the flavors with warm sweetness
- Kosher salt: just a pinch to brighten flavors naturally
- Ladyfingers: traditional accompaniment, firm enough to scoop the dip if you can't find them, sturdy cookies or cake work well too
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sift and mix the cream and powders:
- In a small bowl whisk the heavy cream with espresso powder and cocoa powder until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform. This helps avoid clumps and ensures the coffee and chocolate flavors blend evenly into the dip.
- Combine the creamy cheeses and sugar:
- Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened mascarpone, cream cheese, and confectioners’ sugar on medium-high speed for about two minutes until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to maintain even mixing.
- Incorporate the cream mixture and flavorings:
- Add the espresso and cocoa cream mixture, vanilla extract, and salt to the cheese mixture. Start the mixer on low speed so everything combines gently. Then increase to medium-high speed and whip until the dip becomes light, fluffy, and well aerated, about another minute.
- Serve with classic dippers:
- Transfer the dip to your serving bowl, dust generously with a little more cocoa powder for that authentic finishing touch, and bring out ladyfingers or your choice of dippers.
Save
I love using mascarpone in this dip because it brings that luxurious feel tiramisu is known for. One time, I served this at a family brunch and watching everyone dive into it with ladyfingers made me feel like I nailed the perfect balance of classic and quick.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers covered tightly in the fridge and consume within two days. The texture is best fresh but will hold up well chilled if you want to prepare ahead. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about ten minutes to soften slightly for easy dipping.
Ingredient Substitutions
If mascarpone is unavailable, full-fat cream cheese can stand in though the dip will be a bit tangier and less rich. For a dairy-free version, try blending soaked cashews with coconut cream although the flavor will veer from traditional tiramisu. Espresso powder can be swapped for strong brewed espresso concentrate cooled to room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Aside from ladyfingers, try sturdy shortbread cookies, graham crackers, or fresh fruit like strawberries and banana slices for dipping. It also pairs wonderfully with chunks of pound cake or even as a spread on toasted brioche.
Cultural Context
Tiramisu is an Italian classic traditionally made with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream dusted with cocoa. This dip reinvents that layering into a crowd-pleasing spread which lets you enjoy the essence of tiramisu without the fuss of assembly or chilling. This playful twist has become popular for casual gatherings and those who want quick dessert joy.
Pro Tips
- Make sure your mascarpone and cream cheese are well softened for smooth mixing and no lumps
- Whisk the espresso and cocoa into the cream first to prevent clumping and distribute flavor evenly
- Don’t skip dusting extra cocoa on top for a beautiful presentation and that final signature punch of chocolate
Common Recipe Questions
- → What makes the dip creamy and flavorful?
The combination of mascarpone, cream cheese, and whipped heavy cream creates a rich, smooth texture with balanced tanginess and indulgence.
- → How is espresso incorporated into the dip?
Instant espresso powder is dissolved in heavy cream before being whipped into the mixture, ensuring even coffee flavor throughout.
- → Can I use other dippers besides ladyfingers?
Absolutely! Shortbread cookies, graham crackers, fresh strawberries, pound cake chunks, or bittersweet chocolate squares work beautifully as dippers.
- → Is chilling the dip necessary before serving?
No chilling is required. The dip is ready to enjoy immediately after mixing, making it perfect for quick indulgence.
- → What does dusting with cocoa powder add?
The cocoa powder adds a final touch of rich chocolate flavor and visual appeal that complements the creamy layers.