Name: Tiramisu Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 rice cakes; 10 g cocoa powder; 15 g protein powder; 1 tsp sweetener of choice (to taste); 120 ml almond milk; 15 g Protein Powder (salted caramel flavor); 80 g Greek yogurt 0%; 20 g light cream cheese (Philadelphia active); 30 ml espresso coffee; Sprinkle of cocoa powder (for serving)

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Get ready to meet your new obsession: Tiramisu Pudding. If you’re a fan of classic tiramisu but crave something a little lighter, higher in protein, or just downright fun to layer and serve, this treat is here to deliver. It’s creamy, lush, and has that nostalgic espresso-and-cocoa flair, yet comes together with some surprising twists like rice cakes and protein-packed layers. Whether you need a mood-lifting dessert or a satisfying afternoon snack, this Tiramisu Pudding hits all the right notes—bold on flavor, easy to whip up, and guaranteed to please any crowd (yourself included!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Tiramisu Pudding is all about keeping it simple without sacrificing on texture and taste. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the tender crunch of rice cakes to the creamy tang of Greek yogurt. Here’s what you’ll need, along with tips to ensure each component shines its brightest.

Rice cakes: They offer an airy, crunchy base that soaks up flavors while giving the pudding its unique texture.
Cocoa powder: Unsweetened is best for a rich, chocolatey kick; always sift before using to avoid clumps.
Salted caramel protein powder: Brings both sweetness and a signature caramel note, plus extra protein for substance.
Sweetener of choice: Adjust to taste—try a liquid stevia or erythritol for fewer calories, or maple syrup for a natural touch.
Almond milk: Keeps things light and dairy-free; unflavored works best for soaking and blending the rice cakes.
Greek yogurt (0%): Delivers creamy tang, body, and a healthy boost of protein with minimal fat.
Light cream cheese: Look for something like Philadelphia Active for added richness without heaviness.
Espresso coffee: Freshly brewed, strong and slightly cooled—real espresso will give that classic tiramisu depth.
Cocoa powder (to serve): Don’t skip the final sprinkle—it’s not just for looks! It seals in that classic tiramisu finish.

How to Make Tiramisu Pudding

Step 1: Create the Rice Cake Base

Start by taking those humble rice cakes and crushing them into tiny, fluffy pieces in a mixing bowl. Once they’re like coarse breadcrumbs, add your protein powder, cocoa powder, and sweetener. Pour in the almond milk and mix until everything is well combined. This forms the foundation of your Tiramisu Pudding, bringing in gentle crunch and loads of flavor. Aim for a moist but not soggy texture; you want the mix to hold together while retaining some bite.

Step 2: Assemble the Base

Transfer your rice cake mixture into a glass or mason jar, pressing it down gently. This isn’t just about looks—the glass lets you show off the tempting layers to come. Smooth the top with a spoon to stage the perfect landing for your creamy cheesecake layer. Now, set it aside as you move on to the magic above!

Step 3: Whip the Cheesecake Layer

In a fresh bowl, combine Greek yogurt and light cream cheese. Use a whisk or fork to beat out any lumps for a perfectly smooth texture. Next, add your protein powder and continue mixing until you reach an “icing-like” consistency—think runny enough to spread, but thick enough to hold its own as a rich middle layer. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk; too thin, sprinkle in a touch of additional protein powder.

Step 4: Add the Espresso Touch

Brew your espresso and let it cool for a minute or two. Pour the liquid espresso into your cheesecake mix, stirring as you go, until it transforms into a dreamy, custard-like filling. The coffee binds everything together, giving your Tiramisu Pudding that unmistakable bittersweet backbone. Taste and tweak: need more sweetness, or a little extra coffee kick? Adjust as you wish!

Step 5: Layer and Finish

Spoon the espresso cheesecake mixture gently over your rice cake base, using the back of your spoon to smooth it into an even layer. Now for the best part: dust a generous amount of cocoa powder over the top. This final flourish not only nods to the original Italian dessert, it gives an irresistible chocolate aroma every time you take a bite. Pop your Tiramisu Pudding in the fridge for 10–15 minutes if you can wait—it sets the layers and amps up the flavor even more!

How to Serve Tiramisu Pudding

Garnishes

The best part about Tiramisu Pudding is its endless garnish possibilities. A dusting of extra cocoa powder is classic, but a few chocolate curls, a sprinkle of espresso powder, or even a couple of coffee beans make it look like you snagged it from a fancy café. For a festive twist, add a dollop of light whipped cream or fresh berries right before serving.

Side Dishes

Because this pudding is so rich and creamy, I love pairing it with something fresh and light. A crisp fruit salad—think orange segments and fresh berries—cuts through the richness perfectly. Alternatively, a plate of almond biscotti on the side makes for an authentic Italian experience, letting you dip and scoop the pudding as you go.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t stop at glasses and jars! Try layering your Tiramisu Pudding in mini trifle bowls for a dinner party, or even set up a DIY pudding bar with little bowls where everyone can choose their own garnishes. For a whimsical brunch treat, set them in espresso cups to mimic classic tiramisu, or layer in a big dish for a family-style dessert to scoop and share.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), simply cover your Tiramisu Pudding tightly with plastic wrap or pop a lid on your jar. It’ll keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 2 days. In fact, giving it more time helps the flavors mingle—sometimes, day two is even better!

Freezing

Tiramisu Pudding can be frozen, but keep in mind the texture will change a bit once thawed. If you opt to freeze, use an airtight container and eat within a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir before serving to revive its creamy consistency.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so skip the microwave! If your pudding has been in the fridge, just let it sit out for 10–15 minutes before serving for the ultimate creamy mouthfeel.

FAQs

Can I substitute the rice cakes with something else?

Absolutely! If rice cakes aren’t your thing, you can try crushed graham crackers or ladyfingers for a more classic tiramisu vibe. Just keep in mind, the texture and calories will change a bit.

What kind of protein powder works best?

Whey protein works beautifully here, especially if it’s salted caramel or vanilla flavored. Plant-based protein powders can also work, but they sometimes thicken more, so add extra milk as needed for a smooth result.

Do I have to use almond milk?

Nope! Any milk—dairy or plant-based—will do the trick. Oat and skim milk make great alternatives; just steer away from strong flavors, like coconut, that might overpower the classic tiramisu notes.

Can I make Tiramisu Pudding in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours ahead (or even the night before) lets the layers settle and deepen in flavor. Just add your final cocoa powder dusting right before serving for the freshest look.

Is this recipe kid-friendly with the espresso?

If you’re making it for kids, simply swap the espresso for decaf coffee or milk. You’ll still get a delicious, pudding-like treat, just minus the caffeine!

Final Thoughts

Tiramisu Pudding is one of those delightful treats you’ll want to make again and again. It’s simple to assemble, satisfyingly rich, and absolutely packed with personality. Give it a try—your spoon (and everyone you share it with) will thank you!

Tiramisu Pudding Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 20 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 1 serving 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the deliciousness of this Tiramisu Pudding that combines the flavors of coffee, cocoa, and creamy cheesecake in a guilt-free treat.

Instructions

Rice Cake Base: In a bowl, crush 2 rice cakes into tiny pieces. Combine with protein powder, cocoa powder, sweetener, and milk.
Cheesecake Layer: Mix yoghurt, cream cheese, protein powder until smooth. Add coffee to achieve a custard-like consistency.
Assemble: Spoon cheesecake mixture over the rice cake base. Dust with cocoa powder before serving.

Notes

You can adjust the sweetness level by adding more or less sweetener.
Feel free to top with additional toppings like sliced almonds or shaved dark chocolate.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Mixing, Assembling
Cuisine: Italian