Decadent Dulce de Leche Tiramisu: A Caramel-Infused Twist on the Classic Italian Dessert
This Dulce de Leche Tiramisu reinvents the beloved Italian dessert with a luscious caramel twist. The creamy mascarpone filling gets a sweet upgrade from dulce de leche, while espresso-dipped ladyfingers add the perfect coffee kick. Easy to assemble and even better when made ahead, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Chill Time:
4 + hours
Calories:
Approximately 380 kcal per serving
ingredients
For the Coffee Soak:
1 cup brewed espresso, cooled (or strong coffee)
2 tbsp coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa; optional)
For the Mascarpone Cream:
8 oz (1 cup) mascarpone cheese, room temperature
1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
½ cup dulce de leche (plus extra for drizzling)
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
For Assembly:
24 ladyfinger cookies (Savoiardi)
Cocoa powder, for dusting
Optional Garnish:
Dark chocolate shavings
Caramel drizzle
Directions
1. Prepare the Coffee Mixture
In a shallow bowl, combine cooled espresso and coffee liqueur (if using). Set aside.
2. Make the Mascarpone Filling
In a large bowl, beat mascarpone, dulce de leche, sugar, and vanilla until smooth (~2–3 minutes).
In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.
3. Assemble the Layers
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture (1–2 seconds per side) and arrange in a single layer in an 8×8-inch dish.
Spread half the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and remaining cream.
4. Chill & Serve
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight for best flavor). Before serving, dust with cocoa powder and drizzle with extra dulce de leche.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I skip the alcohol?
Yes! Replace the liqueur with 1 tbsp vanilla extract or omit entirely.
2. How do I prevent soggy ladyfingers?
Dip quickly (1–2 seconds) and let excess coffee drip off.
3. Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
Yes, but mascarpone yields a creamier texture. If using cream cheese, add 1 tbsp heavy cream to soften.
4. How long does it keep?
Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze (without garnish) for 1 month.
5. Is there a non-coffee version?
Substitute espresso with warm milk + 1 tbsp caramel syrup for a kid-friendly option.
Tools You'll Need
Electric mixer
8×8-inch baking dish
Shallow bowl (for dipping)
Fine-mesh sieve (for dusting cocoa)
Tips
Room-temperature mascarpone blends smoother.
Chill the bowl and beaters before whipping cream for faster peaks.
Layer neatly: Trim ladyfingers to fit gaps for even layers.
Boost caramel flavor: Swirl extra dulce de leche between cream layers.
Allergy Information
Contains: Dairy (mascarpone, cream), gluten (ladyfingers), eggs (in ladyfingers).
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free ladyfingers.
Dairy-free: Substitute with coconut cream and vegan cream cheese (note: texture will differ).
Conclusion
This Dulce de Leche Tiramisu is a celebration of contrasts—silky cream against coffee-kissed layers, with caramel sweetness tying it all together. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself, its effortless elegance and rich flavors will leave everyone craving more. Share your creations with #CaramelTiramisuMagic and let the dessert love spread!
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