If you’re craving a dessert that flawlessly blends festive gingerbread spices with the creamy indulgence of classic tiramisu, this Easy Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine layers of soft gingerbread cookies steeped in warm coffee and rich eggnog, melded with fluffy mascarpone cream that feels like a cozy holiday hug in every bite. This dessert is wonderfully simple to prepare yet delivers an impressive, crowd-pleasing finish that’s perfect for winter gatherings or a special treat any time of year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is refreshingly straightforward, and each one plays a crucial role. From the creamy mascarpone to the spicy gingerbread cookies, every element contributes to the dreamy texture and festive flavor that make this tiramisu so irresistible.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Whipped to stiff peaks, it’s the base of the luscious, airy filling.
- 3 egg yolks: Provide richness and help create a smooth, custard-like texture.
- 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without graininess.
- 2 1/4 cups mascarpone cheese: The signature creamy component that lends tiramisu its iconic richness.
- 1/2 cup eggnog: Brings cozy holiday flavor and a hint of spice.
- 40 gingerbread cookies: These are the star, adding a festive spice and a perfect soggy-yet-firm texture once soaked.
- 1/2 cup coffee: Strong and hot, it balances sweetness and deepens the flavors.
- 1 tsp rum extract: Offers a subtle boozy warmth without overpowering the dish.
- Cocoa Powder: For dusting the top, adding slight bitterness and classic tiramisu flair.
- Crushed Gingerbread Cookies: Sprinkled on top for extra crunch and spice.
How to Make Easy Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Whip the heavy cream
Start by whipping the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This fluffy cream acts like a cloud of softness in your tiramisu, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture that everyone loves.
Step 2: Prepare the mascarpone mixture
In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with the powdered sugar until the mixture looks pale and velvety. Then fold in the mascarpone cheese until it’s perfectly smooth and lump-free. This creamy custard base brings richness that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Step 3: Combine whipped cream and mascarpone mixture
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture. Take your time here – you want a light, homogenous mixture with no streaks so that the tiramisu has that classic airy consistency balanced with creamy heft.
Step 4: Prepare the soaking liquid
Mix the hot coffee with rum extract and eggnog in a shallow bowl. This warm, festive soaking liquid will infuse the gingerbread cookies with moisture and flavor without overpowering their spiced charm.
Step 5: Dip gingerbread cookies
Quickly dip each gingerbread cookie into the coffee mixture, ensuring they get fully moistened but stay intact. Arrange 9 cookies in a 9×9 baking dish, filling any gaps to create a solid base layer for your tiramisu.
Step 6: Add the first layer of filling
Spoon a generous layer of the mascarpone and whipped cream mixture over the soaked cookies, smoothing it to an even layer. This alternation of soaked spicy gingerbread and creamy filling is where the magic happens.
Step 7: Repeat layers
Continue layering dipped cookies and filling until you fill the dish, ending with a top layer of the mascarpone cream. Usually, you’ll get around 4-5 layers total for the perfect balance of cookie and filling in every bite.
Step 8: Add finishing touches
Dust the entire surface with a fine layer of cocoa powder using a sifter. For extra texture and festiveness, sprinkle crushed gingerbread cookies over the top. These finishing touches add complexity and eye appeal.
Step 9: Chill before serving
Place the dish in the refrigerator for about an hour and a half to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld. This chilling time is key to developing that classic tiramisu creaminess combined with the spiced cookie’s softness.
Step 10: Serve and enjoy
When ready, scoop generous portions of this dreamy Easy Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe and revel in the joyous combination of warm spices, rich cream, and bold coffee in every bite.
How to Serve Easy Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of cocoa powder is essential, but don’t hesitate to add some crushed gingerbread cookies on top for crunch and to emphasize the holiday spirit. A sprig of fresh mint or a light drizzle of caramel sauce can also elevate the presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
This tiramisu stands well on its own as a dessert, but you can complement it with a cup of spiced chai or a rich espresso. Light fruit compotes, like cranberry or orange, also pair nicely if you want to add a fresh contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this tiramisu in individual glass jars or clear cups to show off the stunning layered effect. For holidays or parties, consider topping each serving with a mini gingerbread cookie for adorable charm and added texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dessert keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors and to keep the layers moist and fresh.
Freezing
While tiramisu can technically be frozen, the texture of the mascarpone cream may change upon thawing. If you choose to freeze it, wrap tightly and allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Fresh is always best for this creamy delight!
Reheating
Tiramisu is meant to be served chilled. Reheating is not recommended since it will alter the cream’s texture. Keep it cool and enjoy the refreshing creaminess in every spoonful.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cookie instead of gingerbread?
Absolutely! While gingerbread cookies give this tiramisu its festive twist, you can experiment with speculoos or cinnamon biscotti for a similar spicy flavor. Just make sure the cookies hold up when soaked.
Is it safe to use raw egg yolks in this recipe?
This traditional recipe uses raw egg yolks, so it’s important to use fresh, high-quality eggs from a trusted source. For extra safety, you can use pasteurized eggs or look for an egg-free tiramisu adaptation.
What kind of coffee works best here?
Strong brewed coffee or espresso works best to balance the sweetness and enrich the flavor layers. Avoid flavored coffees as they might compete with the gingerbread’s spice.
Can I make this tiramisu vegan or dairy-free?
While this recipe relies heavily on mascarpone and heavy cream, vegan alternatives exist. You’ll want to use coconut cream, plant-based cream cheese, and egg substitutes, but note the flavor and texture will differ somewhat from the classic.
How long should I chill the tiramisu before serving?
At least 1.5 hours is ideal for the flavors to meld and the layers to set well. If time allows, chilling overnight enhances the texture and makes slicing or scooping easier.
Final Thoughts
I can’t encourage you enough to dive into making this Easy Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe as soon as possible. It’s a warm, festive, and utterly comforting dessert that feels both special and accessible. Whether for a holiday party, a cozy night in, or just because, this tiramisu brings a smile with every spoonful. Happy baking, and most importantly, happy eating!
Print
Easy Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Easy Gingerbread Tiramisu recipe combines the classic creamy texture of tiramisu with the warm, spicy flavors of gingerbread and festive eggnog. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this no-bake dessert layers gingerbread cookies dipped in a coffee and eggnog mixture with a luscious mascarpone and whipped cream filling, topped with cocoa powder and crushed gingerbread for a delightful seasonal treat.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 1/4 cups mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup eggnog
Soaking Mixture
- 1/2 cup hot coffee
- 1 tsp rum extract
Assembly
- 40 gingerbread cookies
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
- Crushed gingerbread cookies, for garnish
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: In a mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside the whipped cream for later use.
- Prepare Egg and Mascarpone Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and powdered sugar until the mixture is pale yellow and combined. Add the mascarpone cheese and whip until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the egg and mascarpone mixture until fully combined and no streaks remain, creating a light and airy tiramisu filling.
- Make Soaking Liquid: In a small bowl, stir together the hot coffee, rum extract, and eggnog thoroughly to create the soaking liquid for the gingerbread cookies.
- Prepare Assembly Station: Arrange your 9×9 inch baking dish and gather the tiramisu filling, gingerbread cookies, and soaking mixture for easy layering.
- Dip and Layer Cookies: Quickly dip each gingerbread cookie into the coffee mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated but not soggy. Place nine cookies in a single layer covering the bottom of the baking dish. Adjust arrangement for cookies of varying sizes or shapes to fill the space evenly.
- Add First Filling Layer: Spread an even layer of the whipped tiramisu filling over the dipped gingerbread cookies.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering by alternating dipped cookies and filling until you have about 4-5 layers, with the final top layer being the tiramisu filling.
- Finish with Toppings: Sift cocoa powder evenly over the top layer of filling. Sprinkle crushed gingerbread cookies over the cocoa powder for added texture and flavor, if desired.
- Chill: Place the assembled tiramisu in the refrigerator to chill and set for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from the fridge and serve by the spoonful, enjoying the harmonious layers of creamy mascarpone, eggnog, coffee, and gingerbread.
Notes
- Use freshly brewed hot coffee for the soaking liquid to enhance the flavor.
- To avoid soggy cookies, dip gingerbread cookies quickly and do not soak them for too long.
- For a boozy twist, add a tablespoon of dark rum to the soaking mixture.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead to deepen flavors and save time.
- Ensure eggs are fresh and consider using pasteurized eggs for safety.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the powdered sugar amount according to taste.
