Description
This Coffee Tiramisu Cake is a delightful fusion of classic tiramisu flavors and a moist coffee-infused sponge cake. Layers of fluffy mascarpone cream alternate with coffee-soaked cake, topped with a dusting of cocoa powder and optional chocolate shavings. Perfect for coffee lovers looking for an elegant dessert that combines rich textures and aromatic coffee notes.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
Mascarpone Filling
- 1 ½ cups mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Soaking Syrup
- ¾ cup brewed coffee, cooled
- ¼ cup coffee liqueur (optional)
- 2 tbsp sugar
Toppings
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
- Make the cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with the strong brewed coffee and coffee liqueur if using, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Bake the cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the mascarpone filling: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened mascarpone cheese, heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This creamy filling provides the signature richness for the tiramisu cake.
- Prepare the soaking syrup: In a small bowl, mix brewed coffee, coffee liqueur (if using), and sugar. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. This syrup will moisten the cake layers, enhancing the coffee flavor.
- Assemble the cake: Once the cooled cakes are fully set, slice each cake horizontally to create four even layers. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Brush generously with the coffee soaking syrup. Spread an even layer of the mascarpone filling over the soaked cake. Repeat this process with the remaining layers, finishing with a final layer of mascarpone filling on top.
- Chill the cake: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 to 3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up nicely.
- Finish and serve: Just before serving, dust the top of the cake with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings if desired. Slice and enjoy this elegant coffee-infused dessert.
Notes
- Using strong brewed coffee enhances the rich coffee flavor in the cake and soaking syrup.
- Coffee liqueur is optional but adds a wonderful depth; substitute with additional coffee if preferred.
- Ensure the mascarpone cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Allowing the cake to chill overnight improves flavor integration and texture.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
