Name: Tiramisu Cheesecake Delight Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 5 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; ¾ cup sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 cup mascarpone cheese; ½ cup strong brewed coffee, cooled; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional); 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp powdered sugar; 2 tbsp cocoa powder; 1 tsp instant espresso powder; Chocolate shavings (for garnish)

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If there was ever a dessert that could steal the show at every gathering, it’s Tiramisu Cheesecake Delight. Imagine the dreamy union of two iconic sweets in each luscious bite—cheesecake’s creamy richness meets tiramisu’s bold coffee and mascarpone flavors. This vibrant, layered treat is as stunning as it is scrumptious, perfect for impressing loved ones or treating yourself to a seriously memorable slice. I’ve tweaked this recipe for maximum decadence and minimal fuss, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Tiramisu Cheesecake Delight Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I adore about this Tiramisu Cheesecake Delight is that the magic relies on a handful of pantry staples and a few special touches. Each ingredient brings its own flavor, texture, or creamy dreaminess, and skipping even one means missing out on some of the fun!

Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups): A classic, buttery base that keeps the cheesecake sturdy yet irresistibly crunchy.
Unsalted butter, melted (½ cup): Helps bind the crust and sneaks in a rich silkiness.
Cream cheese, softened (16 oz): The heart of our cheesecake; smooth, tangy, and essential for that trademark texture.
Sugar (¾ cup): Offers balanced sweetness, lifting all the flavors beautifully.
Eggs, large (3): Ensure the filling is rich and set just right—each egg makes a difference.
Mascarpone cheese (1 cup): Tiramisu’s signature! Velvety and decadent for that authentic Italian twist.
Strong brewed coffee, cooled (½ cup): Don’t skip this—it infuses the cheesecake with true tiramisu aroma.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds warm, mellow undertones that tie everything together.
Coffee liqueur, optional (2 tbsp): Just a splash deepens the flavor—perfect for adults who love a little extra kick.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Whips up light and dreamy for the topping.
Powdered sugar (2 tbsp): Sweetens and stabilizes our whipped cream for a pillowy finish.
Cocoa powder (2 tbsp): Delivers a classic tiramisu flourish and a sophisticated flavor hit.
Instant espresso powder (1 tsp): Intensifies the coffee essence in the creamy topping.
Chocolate shavings (for garnish): Not just pretty—they add texture and a little hint of luxury.

How to Make Tiramisu Cheesecake Delight

Step 1: Prep the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C), which creates the perfect gently-baked base for our delight. Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter in a medium bowl. It should feel like damp sand—perfect for pressing. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, forming a neat, even layer. Bake this for 10 minutes; it’ll set up into a golden, fragrant crust. Let it cool completely while you prepare the filling, as this helps keep the layers distinct.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until absolutely smooth—no lumps allowed! Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This prevents streaky batter and ensures a silky result. Now, master the tiramisu twist: fold in mascarpone cheese, cooled coffee, vanilla extract, and (if you like) coffee liqueur. You’ll find the filling becomes irresistibly creamy and aromatic—almost like a cloud of coffee-kissed magic!

Step 3: Bake

Pour your decadent filling over the cooled graham crust, smoothing the top with a spatula so it bakes evenly. Slide the pan into your waiting oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Keep a watchful eye: the cheesecake should be mostly set with a subtle jiggle in the center, signaling it’s perfectly done. Let the cheesecake cool on the counter (it will continue to firm up), then pop it into the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait. That chill time is crucial for the layers to set into sliceable perfection.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Espresso Cream

Just before serving, whip up a decadent topping. Using a mixer, blend heavy cream with powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and instant espresso powder. Whip until soft peaks form, creating a cloud that’s rich with chocolate and espresso flavor—one spoonful will have you swooning! This is the final flourish that transforms your cheesecake into a true tiramisu experience.

Step 5: Assemble

Spread the chocolate espresso cream over the thoroughly chilled cheesecake in a thick, generous layer. Don’t be shy—this is the cherry on top (or, more accurately, the coffee cream on top). Finish by scattering chocolate shavings over everything. Each slice now looks showstopping and delivers a double burst of chocolate and coffee aromas—your Tiramisu Cheesecake Delight is ready to wow!

How to Serve Tiramisu Cheesecake Delight

Garnishes

Dress up each slice with extra chocolate shavings, a light dusting of cocoa powder, or even a few chocolate-covered espresso beans for crunch and a nod to the tiramisu theme. A sprig of mint or a swirl of whipped cream alongside makes every plate feel extra celebratory. Don’t forget that coffee drizzle or a sprinkle of instant espresso if you’re serving true coffee lovers!

Side Dishes

Tiramisu Cheesecake Delight is striking all on its own, but a side of fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries brings brightness and balances the creamy richness. Pair it with after-dinner espresso or a delicate Italian dessert wine to round out your meal in memorable style.

Creative Ways to Present

Try making mini cheesecakes in ramekins for adorable, individual servings—perfect for dinner parties or holiday buffets. You can also layer sliced cheesecake into dessert cups with extra whipped cream and coffee-soaked ladyfingers for a trifle-style twist. Or, go bold and serve squares on a platter with piped chocolate designs and edible gold leaf for your fanciest occasions!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Tiramisu Cheesecake Delight covered in the fridge, where it’ll stay luscious and fresh for up to five days. I recommend using plastic wrap over the pan or sealing individual slices in airtight containers to keep the topping fluffy and the flavors bold.

Freezing

You can freeze Tiramisu Cheesecake Delight for up to three months! Wrap the cheesecake (unadorned by the whipped topping) tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then add the chocolate espresso cream and chocolate shavings just before serving for best texture and taste.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat this cheesecake—it’s at its creamiest and most flavorsome when chilled. For the best texture, let frozen cheesecake slices sit at room temperature for around 20 minutes before serving, so every bite is velvety smooth.

FAQs

Can I make Tiramisu Cheesecake Delight without coffee liqueur?

Absolutely! The coffee liqueur is optional; the cheesecake is just as delicious without it. If you want that extra kick, you can substitute with a little more brewed coffee or use a splash of rum or amaretto.

Can I use another type of crust for this cheesecake?

Definitely! While graham cracker crust is classic, you can swap in chocolate cookie crumbs, vanilla wafers, or even a layer of ladyfingers for a playful tiramisu nod. Adjust the amount of butter if needed to help your chosen crumbs hold together.

How can I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

For the smoothest Tiramisu Cheesecake Delight, make sure your cream cheese is fully softened, mix thoroughly but gently to avoid incorporating air, and don’t overbake. If you want to play it extra safe, bake the cheesecake in a water bath for gentle, even cooking.

Is mascarpone cheese essential, or can I substitute it?

Mascarpone gives the cheesecake its signature tiramisu flair. However, if you can’t find it, full-fat cream cheese or a mix of ricotta and cream cheese will work in a pinch—though the flavor will be a bit different.

Can I prepare Tiramisu Cheesecake Delight in advance for an event?

Yes! In fact, it’s even better when made the day before serving. The flavors deepen overnight in the fridge, and you can whip up the topping just before guests arrive for maximum wow-factor.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been craving something truly spectacular, it’s time to treat yourself and your loved ones to a homemade Tiramisu Cheesecake Delight. Every bite delivers creamy, coffee-infused bliss that disappears quickly—so don’t be surprised if you’re asked for the recipe. You’re going to make memories (and maybe a new tradition) with this one!

Tiramisu Cheesecake Delight Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 26 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 5 hours
Yield: 1 9-inch cheesecake 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the perfect blend of tiramisu and cheesecake with this delightful recipe. Creamy layers of mascarpone and cream cheese on a graham cracker crust, topped with a luscious chocolate espresso cream.

Instructions

Prep the Crust – Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling – In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate mascarpone, coffee, vanilla, and coffee liqueur until creamy.
Bake – Pour filling over the cooled crust. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Chocolate Espresso Cream – In a mixing bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and espresso powder until soft peaks form.
Assemble – Spread the chocolate espresso cream over the chilled cheesecake and garnish with chocolate shavings before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian