Introduction
Celebrate Valentine’s Day 2025 with a delightful twist on a classic Italian dessert. This Tiramisu Cake combines the rich flavors of espresso and mascarpone with the elegance of a layered cake, making it the perfect romantic treat.
Ingredients
300g cake flour
250g granulated sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
115g unsalted butter, room temperature
240ml whole milk, room temperature
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
500g mascarpone cheese, room temperature
600ml heavy cream
150g powdered sugar
80ml strong brewed espresso, cooled
2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Dark chocolate shavings, for garnish
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
3 hours
Yield
12 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour two 23cm (9-inch) round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix briefly to combine.
3. Add the butter, whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until smooth and well combined, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
6. In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth. Gradually add the heavy cream and powdered sugar, and continue to beat until soft peaks form.
7. Mix the espresso with coffee liqueur (if using) and brush it generously over the cooled cake layers.
8. To assemble the cake, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of the mascarpone cream over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining mascarpone cream.
9. Dust the top of the cake with cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings.
10. Chill the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. Enjoy your Tiramisu Cake with a cup of espresso or your favorite beverage.
**Detailed Directions and Instructions**
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour two 23cm (9-inch) round cake pans to ensure easy release after baking.
Step 2: Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 300g cake flour, 250g granulated sugar, 1 tbsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. Mix these dry ingredients briefly to ensure they are well incorporated.
Step 3: Combining Wet Ingredients
Add 115g unsalted butter (at room temperature), 240ml whole milk (room temperature), 4 large eggs (room temperature), and 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract to the bowl. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, until it is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Baking the Cake Layers
Evenly divide the batter between the prepared cake pans. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cakes; it should come out clean.
Step 5: Cooling the Cakes
Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. After that, turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Step 6: Preparing the Mascarpone Cream
In a separate bowl, beat 500g mascarpone cheese until it is smooth. Gradually mix in 600ml heavy cream and 150g powdered sugar, continuing to beat until soft peaks form, creating a light and creamy texture.
Step 7: Espresso Infusion
In a small bowl, mix 80ml strong brewed espresso (cooled) with 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (if desired). Generously brush this espresso mixture over the cooled cake layers, allowing the flavors to soak in.
Step 8: Assembling the Cake
On a serving plate, place one layer of the cake. Spread a generous layer of the mascarpone cream over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and then cover the entire cake with the remaining mascarpone cream, smoothing it beautifully.
Step 9: Finishing Touches
Dust the top of the cake with unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich hint of flavor. For a touch of elegance, garnish with dark chocolate shavings sprinkled on top.
Step 10: Chilling Before Serving
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set perfectly. Serve your Tiramisu Cake paired with a cup of espresso or your favorite beverage.
**Notes**
Ingredient Temperature
Ensure that all dairy ingredients like eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature before mixing, as this helps in achieving a smooth batter.
Optional Additions
For added flavor, consider incorporating a layer of chocolate ganache or fresh berries between the layers of cake and cream.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best enjoyed chilled.
Serving Suggestion
Pairing the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the dessert experience.
Richness Adjustment
Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the mascarpone cream by reducing or increasing the powdered sugar according to your taste preference.
Cook Techniques
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Ensure that the cake flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt are combined evenly to prevent clumping and ensure a uniform rise.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
Beat the room temperature butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This helps to incorporate air into the batter for a lighter cake texture.
Separating Egg Yolks and Whites
Though this recipe uses whole eggs, for a lighter mascarpone filling, you can separate the eggs and beat the whites until stiff peaks form to fold into the mixture.
Layering the Cake
When assembling the cake, ensure that the espresso-soaked layers are evenly distributed with mascarpone cream to create a balanced flavor in every bite.
Chilling the Cake
Allow the assembled cake to chill in the refrigerator. This not only helps set the mascarpone cream but also allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste.
FAQ
Can I use a different flavor of liqueur?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of liqueur to suit your taste preferences, such as hazelnut or amaretto.
How do I store the Tiramisu Cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the cake layers a day in advance and assemble it the next day before serving.
What can I use if I don’t have mascarpone cheese?
You can substitute mascarpone with a mixture of cream cheese and heavy cream; just ensure the flavors are balanced.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking, keeping the ratios similar for best results.
Conclusion
Indulging in a Tiramisu Cake on Valentine’s Day adds a touch of sophistication and sweetness to your celebration. The layers of rich mascarpone and espresso-infused cake create a perfect romantic dessert that will impress your loved one. This delightful treat is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious, making it an ideal choice for a special occasion.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Tiramisu
Combine the classic flavors of tiramisu with fresh strawberries dipped in chocolate. Layer fresh strawberries between the cake and mascarpone, then top with a drizzle of melted chocolate for an elegant touch.
Nutella Tiramisu Cake
Swap out traditional espresso for rich Nutella in the mascarpone layer. This creates a dreamy, chocolatey version of the classic, perfect for Nutella lovers.
Raspberry Lemon Tiramisu
Add a fruity twist by incorporating fresh raspberries and a zest of lemon into the layers. The tartness of raspberries balances the sweetness of the mascarpone, creating a refreshing dessert.
Matcha Green Tea Tiramisu
For a unique flavor experience, use matcha green tea powder in the mascarpone cream. Layer with sponge cake soaked in a light green tea syrup for a beautiful and tasty presentation.
Vegan Tiramisu Cake
Create a plant-based version using vegan cream cheese and coconut cream for the mascarpone. Use almond milk and a vegan cake base to complement the traditional flavors while serving a healthier option.
