Description
This Italian Tiramisu Cheesecake combines the classic flavors of tiramisu with the creamy richness of cheesecake. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust soaked lightly with espresso and coffee liqueur, it’s layered with a smooth mascarpone and cream cheese filling, topped with a dusting of cocoa powder and dark chocolate shavings. Perfect for an indulgent dessert that’s easy to prepare and impressively elegant.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Espresso Mixture
- 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
Topping
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder, for dusting
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate shavings, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well mixed. This will form the base of your cheesecake.
- Form the Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer that will hold the filling. Refrigerate to help it set while preparing the filling.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, ensuring it is light and fluffy.
- Combine Filling: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cheese mixture until fully incorporated. This gives the filling a light and airy texture.
- Prepare Espresso Mixture: Mix the cooled espresso with the coffee liqueur in a small bowl. This mixture adds that classic tiramisu coffee flavor.
- Brush Crust: Lightly brush the espresso mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust to moisten it and infuse the coffee taste.
- Assemble First Layer: Pour half of the cheese filling over the crust and smooth the surface with a spatula for an even layer.
- Dust cocoa powder: Lightly dust the first layer of filling with cocoa powder using a fine sieve or sifter.
- Assemble Second Layer: Pour the remaining cheese filling on top and smooth again with a spatula, creating a uniform cheesecake surface.
- Final cocoa dusting: Dust the top again with cocoa powder to add a rich chocolate aroma and classic tiramisu look.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or until fully set, allowing the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, garnish with dark chocolate shavings spread evenly on top for added texture and visual appeal.
Notes
- Use a 9-inch springform pan for easy removal and clean edges.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor and texture.
- The coffee liqueur is optional but enhances the authentic tiramisu flavor.
- Ensure cream cheese and mascarpone are softened to room temperature to avoid lumps.
- Lightly dusting with cocoa powder prevents it from clumping and gives a delicate finish.
- Dark chocolate shavings can be made by using a vegetable peeler on a chocolate bar.
- This cheesecake is best served chilled but can be stored covered in the refrigerator up to 3 days.
