Ever dreamed of turning your favorite Italian dessert into a gorgeous, layered centerpiece? Let me introduce you to my go-to tiramisu layer cake recipe; a total showstopper that brings the timeless charm of tiramisu into a beautifully stacked 6-inch cake. As someone who’s been baking for years and has a serious soft spot for all things espresso and mascarpone, I can tell you this cake is a must-try.
This tiramisu layer cake recipe is perfect when you're celebrating something special; or just want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. Each layer is soaked in rich coffee, giving it that signature tiramisu flavor, while the creamy mascarpone frosting adds an irresistible touch of elegance. It’s the best of both worlds: familiar, cozy flavors wrapped up in a sophisticated cake that’s sure to impress.
Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply baking for the joy of it, this tiramisu layer cake recipe is a delicious way to elevate your dessert game. Trust me, once you try it, it might just become your new favorite tradition.
So if you're craving something sweet, bold, and unforgettable, this tiramisu layer cake recipe is calling your name.
Why This Tiramisu Layer Cake Recipe Will Instantly Become Your New Favorite
We all know and love traditional tiramisu; but imagine those same comforting flavors reimagined as a stunning layer cake. That’s exactly what this tiramisu layer cake recipe delivers. It's the perfect blend of light, fluffy sponge cake, bold espresso flavor, and silky mascarpone cream, all layered to perfection. The result? A dessert that’s rich without being heavy, sweet without being overpowering, and elegant enough to wow at any gathering.
What sets this tiramisu layer cake recipe apart is how it captures everything you love about classic tiramisu; the deep coffee notes, the creamy texture, the cocoa-dusted finish; and elevates it into a sliceable showstopper. It’s just as comforting as the original, but with a presentation that’s made for celebrations.
A Sweet Slice of History: Tiramisu’s Italian Roots
Did you know tiramisu literally means “pick me up” in Italian? This beloved dessert first emerged in Italy’s Veneto region back in the 1960s. Traditionally, it was made with espresso-soaked ladyfingers layered with a whipped mascarpone mixture, then finished with a dusting of cocoa powder. Simple, decadent, and totally irresistible.
This tiramisu layer cake recipe stays true to those iconic roots, while giving it a fresh twist. Instead of ladyfingers, soft sponge cake layers are soaked in coffee and stacked with that same creamy filling we all adore. It’s everything you love about the classic tiramisu; but with a bit more flair and a whole lot of wow factor.
So if you're ready to fall in love with tiramisu all over again, this tiramisu layer cake recipe is ready to impress; one beautiful slice at a time.
Jump to:
Ingredients
For the Sponge Cake Layers:
- All-purpose flour (cake flour works wonderfully too)
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Unsalted butter, softened (makes the cake tender)
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs, room temperature (for better volume)
- Vanilla extract
- Whole milk, room temperature
For the Coffee Soak:
- Strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
- Coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa), optional but adds depth
- Granulated sugar
For the Mascarpone Filling:
- Mascarpone cheese, room temperature (the star ingredient)
- Heavy whipping cream, cold
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
- Chocolate shavings or coffee beans for decoration (optional)
See recipe card for quantities.
Ingredient Notes & Easy Substitutions
Creating the perfect tiramisu layer cake recipe doesn’t mean you’re stuck with rigid ingredients; there’s room for flexibility without sacrificing flavor.
- Mascarpone Cheese: This classic Italian cheese is key to the authentic tiramisu flavor, but if you can’t find it, no worries. Substitute with 8 oz of cream cheese blended with ½ cup of heavy cream. It’s a bit tangier but still creamy and delicious.
- Coffee Liqueur: For an alcohol-free version of this tiramisu layer cake recipe, simply leave out the liqueur and add an extra tablespoon of sugar to your coffee soak. You’ll still get that bold coffee flavor with a touch of sweetness.
- Gluten-Free Option: You can easily make this tiramisu layer cake gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose baking flour blend. The texture stays light and sponge-like, just as it should.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: While not traditional, a dairy-free version is totally doable. Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, vegan cream cheese, and a bit of coconut cream to mimic that rich mascarpone texture. It won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll still be a satisfying take on this beloved dessert.
Instructions
Bake the Sponge Cake Layers
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 6-inch round cake pans.
- Mix your dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt) in one bowl.
- In another bowl, cream butter and sugar, then add eggs and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients alternating with milk.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, then cool completely.
Prepare the Coffee Mixture & Mascarpone Filling
- For the coffee mixture: Stir together cooled espresso, coffee liqueur, and sugar.
- For the filling: Beat mascarpone until smooth, then separately whip cream with powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone for a light, creamy texture.
Assemble Your Cake
- Slice each cooled cake horizontally to create four thin layers.
- Layer in this order: cake, coffee soak, mascarpone filling, light cocoa dusting.
- Repeat with all layers, finishing with mascarpone on top.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
Step 4: Finish and Serve
- Just before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder.
- Add optional decorations like chocolate shavings or coffee beans.
- Slice and enjoy this perfect blend of cake and traditional tiramisu!
- Step 1: Bake the Sponge Cake Layers
Bake, cool, and prep your sponge cake layers for slicing.
- Step 2: Prepare the Coffee Mixture & Mascarpone Filling
Make the coffee soak and whip up your smooth mascarpone filling.
- Step 3: Assemble Your Cake
Layer the cake with coffee soak, mascarpone, and cocoa dusting.
- Step 4: Finish and Serve
Dust with cocoa and serve chilled; ready to impress!
Pro Tips for Tiramisu Layer Cake Success
- Stabilize Your Cream: For a more stable filling, especially in warm weather, add 1 teaspoon of unflavored gelatin (bloomed in 1 tablespoon water) to your whipped cream.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure eggs, butter, and mascarpone are at room temperature for smooth, lump-free batters and fillings.
- Cooling Is Crucial: Never assemble the cake with warm layers – they'll melt your carefully prepared mascarpone filling.
- Patience Pays Off: The cake needs time in the refrigerator to develop its flavors. Overnight is ideal, but at least 4 hours is necessary.
- Soak Evenly: Use a pastry brush to apply the coffee mixture evenly to each layer.
Variations to Try
Want to put a fun twist on this tiramisu layer cake recipe? Here are a few creative variations to explore:
- Chocolate Tiramisu Layer Cake
Mix ¼ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder into your cake batter and swap out the coffee liqueur for chocolate liqueur. It’s a rich, decadent spin that chocolate lovers will adore. - Fruity Twist
Add a layer of fresh berries: like raspberries or strawberries; between the cream layers for a bright, tart contrast to the deep coffee notes. This version adds a burst of freshness to the classic tiramisu layer cake recipe. - Toffee Tiramisu Layer Cake
Sprinkle crushed toffee bits between the layers and drizzle the top with caramel sauce. This sweet, buttery variation gives your tiramisu layer cake an irresistible crunch. - Mini Tiramisu Cakes
Use 4-inch cake pans to create individual-sized cakes. These mini versions are adorable and perfect for dinner parties, bridal showers, or any intimate gathering.)
Equipment
- Fine Mesh Sieve: For that professional-looking dusting of cocoa powder.
- 6-inch Cake Pans: Two pans with at least 2-inch depth work best.
- Cake Leveler or Serrated Knife: Essential for creating even layers.
- Pastry Brush: Makes applying the coffee soak much easier and more even.
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: For creating the perfect fluffy cake batter and filling.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Make-Ahead: One of the best things about this tiramisu layer cake recipe is that it’s easy to prep ahead of time. You can make each component separately: the coffee soak can be prepared and refrigerated up to 2 days in advance, the mascarpone filling stays fresh for a day, and the sponge cake layers can be baked, cooled, and tightly wrapped for later assembly. This makes putting everything together a breeze when you're ready.
- Refrigerator Storage: Once your tiramisu layer cake is assembled, be sure to store it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days; just keep it covered to maintain moisture and prevent any fridge odors from creeping in.
- Freezing: To get ahead, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers from this tiramisu layer cake recipe for up to 1 month. Wrap each layer in plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil. When ready to use, thaw the layers overnight in the fridge before assembling.
The Secret Behind the Perfect Tiramisu Layer Cake
Here’s the little secret I wish someone had told me sooner: the magic of this tiramisu layer cake recipe isn’t just in the ingredients; it’s in the soak. Once your sponge layers are baked and cooled, don’t rush. Gently brush each one with freshly brewed espresso (or your favorite coffee liqueur) until they’re just shy of soggy. That’s where the deep, dreamy flavor comes from; it seeps into the cake, giving every bite that unmistakable tiramisu richness.
Then comes the mascarpone cream; smooth, slightly sweet, and impossibly silky. Stack your layers with care, adding generous swirls of cream between each one. Finish with a dusting of cocoa powder and let it chill. Trust me, letting it sit overnight is the final touch that makes this tiramisu layer cake recipe truly unforgettable. It’s a little indulgent, a little nostalgic, and absolutely worth the wait.
FAQ
What’s the difference between tiramisu and tiramisu cake?
A traditional tiramisu is a no-bake dessert made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream, topped with cocoa powder. A tiramisu layer cake, on the other hand, uses baked cake layers; often sponge or genoise; soaked in coffee, then stacked with mascarpone frosting. It captures the same flavors but adds structure and elegance, perfect for slicing and serving like a classic cake.
What type of cake is used for tiramisu?
For a tiramisu layer cake recipe, sponge cake or genoise is typically used. These cakes are light, airy, and ideal for soaking up espresso or coffee liqueur without falling apart. Their texture holds up beautifully while still delivering that iconic tiramisu flavor.
How to layer a tiramisu?
Layering a tiramisu ;whether traditional or as a cake; is all about balance. Start with a coffee-soaked base (ladyfingers or cake), then spread a generous layer of mascarpone cream. Repeat the process, alternating cake and cream until you reach the top. Finish with a smooth layer of cream and a dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder. In the case of a tiramisu layer cake, it’s built just like a regular cake, but with that rich soak between each layer.
What is the main structural ingredient that gives tiramisu its layers?
In classic tiramisu, ladyfingers are the key structural element. In a tiramisu layer cake recipe, the structure comes from the sponge cake layers. They provide the height, stability, and absorbency needed to hold the creamy mascarpone filling and coffee flavor together in beautiful, distinct layers.
Elevate Your Dessert Game
This tiramisu layer cake recipe takes everything you love about the classic Italian dessert; bold espresso flavor, airy sponge, and rich mascarpone cream; and reimagines it as a beautiful, tall 6-inch layer cake. It’s a dessert that feels both nostalgic and elevated, making it perfect for birthdays, small celebrations, or those cozy nights when you want something extra special. The coffee-soaked layers are deeply flavorful, while the mascarpone frosting brings just the right amount of creaminess without being overly sweet.
What makes this cake truly shine is how it transforms a traditionally casual dessert into something elegant, without losing its comforting essence. And if you’re into small-batch bakes, you’ll love our other mini cake favorites too; like the Easy 3-Ingredient Chocolate Cake for when you're short on time but craving something rich and satisfying, or the Best Small Carrot Cake Recipe, which is packed with flavor and perfect for spring and fall gatherings alike.
So go ahead; try this tiramisu layer cake recipe, savor each decadent slice, and don’t forget to save it for your next special occasion. Share your bake in the comments, or tag us online; we’d love to see your version of this coffee-kissed classic!
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this tiramisu layer cake recipe:
6-Inch Tiramisu Layer Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 2 6-inch cake pans With at least 2-inch depth
- 1 Pastry Brush For soaking cake layers evenly
- 1 Hand or stand mixer For cake batter and whipped cream
- 1 Fine-mesh sieve For dusting cocoa powder
- 1 Cake leveler/knife For slicing layers evenly
Ingredients
For the Sponge Cake:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour or cake flour
- 1½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 eggs room temperature
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk room temperature
For the Coffee Soak:
- 1 cup strong espresso cooled
- 2 tablespoon coffee liqueur optional
- 3 tablespoon granulated sugar
For the Mascarpone Filling:
- 16 oz mascarpone room temperature
- 1½ cups heavy cream cold
- ⅔ cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 3 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa for dusting
- chocolate shavings or coffee beans optional
Instructions
- Preheat, mix batter, and bake sponge layers
- Make the coffee soak and mascarpone filling.
- Slice layers, soak, spread cream, and stack.
- Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Dust with cocoa, decorate, and slice to serve.
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