Christmas Tiramisu Dessert – Easy Holiday Layered Cake Recipe

Christmas is the season of twinkling lights, cozy evenings, and desserts that feel like a warm hug.
If you love classic tiramisu but want something a bit more festive for the holidays, this Christmas Tiramisu Dessert is exactly what you need.

It takes everything you adore about traditional tiramisu—soft coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, and a dusting of cocoa—and wraps it in cozy Christmas flavors. Think hints of cinnamon, orange zest, vanilla, and a touch of liqueur if you like. The result is an easy, no-bake layered “cake” that looks impressive on the table yet comes together with simple steps.

Unlike complicated layer cakes that require baking, cooling, and frosting, this tiramisu-style holiday dessert builds its layers in a dish. The refrigerator does the rest of the work, transforming crisp ladyfingers into a soft cake-like base and melding the flavors into something rich, creamy, and utterly festive.

It’s perfect for Christmas Eve, holiday potlucks, or any time in December when you want a make-ahead dessert that feels special but doesn’t keep you in the kitchen all day. Once you try it, this Christmas Tiramisu is sure to become one of your go-to holiday recipes.

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Core Ingredients for Making the Recipe

To prepare this Christmas Tiramisu Dessert, you’ll need a few everyday ingredients plus some seasonal touches that give it that unmistakable holiday soul.

Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Coffee & Holiday Soaking Syrup

• 1 1/2 cups strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled
• 1/3–1/2 cup coffee liqueur, dark rum, Baileys, or brandy (optional but festive)
• 2–3 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Zest of 1 small orange (finely grated)

This mixture infuses the ladyfingers with warm Christmas notes of coffee, spice, and citrus.

For the Christmas Mascarpone Cream

• 4 large egg yolks (or use an egg-free version—see Tips section)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons icing sugar (optional, for extra smooth sweetness)
• 1/4 cup liqueur of your choice (Baileys, amaretto, rum, or brandy) – or milk/cream for non-alcoholic
• 450 g (about 16 oz) mascarpone cheese, chilled but soft enough to mix
• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, very cold
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• A pinch of salt

This spiced mascarpone cream is what turns the dessert into a Christmas tiramisu: silky, lightly spiced, and gently scented with citrus and liqueur.

For the Layers & Festive Finish

• About 30–36 ladyfingers (savoiardi)
• 2–3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
• 1–2 tablespoons grated dark chocolate or chocolate curls (optional)
• Crushed candy canes, sugared cranberries, or pomegranate seeds (optional, for decoration)
• A few mint leaves or rosemary sprigs (optional, for a “wreath” look)

Recommended Dish

• 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) or 9×9 inch (23×23 cm) square dish
  – or a similar medium-sized rectangular dish.

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Step-by-Step

Guide to Making the Recipe

Follow this simple guide to build your Christmas tiramisu layers and let the fridge transform them into a festive, sliceable dessert.

1. Make the Christmas Coffee Soaking Syrup

1. Brew the coffee or espresso and let it cool to room temperature. It should be strong and aromatic—this is the backbone of the dessert.
2. Pour the cooled coffee into a shallow bowl wide enough for dipping ladyfingers.
3. Add the liqueur (if using), brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and orange zest.
4. Whisk gently until the sugar dissolves and the spices are evenly distributed.
5. Taste and adjust:
   • Add more orange zest for a brighter citrus note.
   • Add a splash more liqueur for a stronger holiday warmth.

Set the mixture aside to cool completely before dipping the ladyfingers.

2. Prepare the Christmas Mascarpone Cream

This cream is where the Christmas magic truly happens.

A. Cook the Egg Yolk Mixture

1. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until combined and slightly paler.
2. Place the bowl over a pot of gently simmering water (double-boiler style), making sure the water does not touch the bottom of the bowl.
3. Whisk constantly for about 5–7 minutes, until:
   • The mixture thickens slightly.
   • The sugar is dissolved.
   • The yolks are warm and silky.

This gentle cooking step gives the cream body and richness, while making the yolks safer to eat.

4. Remove from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
5. Whisk in the liqueur and vanilla extract until smooth.

B. Add the Mascarpone

1. Add the mascarpone cheese to the slightly cooled yolk mixture.
2. Using a spatula or low-speed mixer, blend just until smooth and combined.
   • Don’t overbeat, or the mascarpone can become grainy.
3. Stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt to bring out the flavors.

You should now have a thick, creamy base that already smells like Christmas.

C. Whip the Cream

1. In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until soft to medium peaks form.
   • The cream should hold its shape but still look smooth and fluffy.
2. If using icing sugar, add it halfway through whipping for extra smoothness.

D. Fold the Cream into the Mascarpone

1. Add about one-third of the whipped cream to your mascarpone mixture and gently fold it in to lighten the base.
2. Add the remaining whipped cream in two more additions, folding gently each time.
   • Use broad, sweeping motions and avoid vigorous stirring.

When finished, you’ll have a light, mousse-like Christmas mascarpone cream that’s perfect for layering.

3. Assemble the Christmas Tiramisu Layers

1. Have your dish ready and your soaking syrup, ladyfingers, and cream all within reach.
2. Give the coffee mixture a quick stir so the cinnamon and orange zest are evenly distributed.
3. Working with one ladyfinger at a time, briefly dip it into the soaking mixture for 1–2 seconds per side.
   • The biscuit should be moist but not collapsing.
4. Arrange the dipped ladyfingers in a single layer over the bottom of your dish.
   • Break a few into smaller pieces if needed to fill gaps.
5. Spread half of the Christmas mascarpone cream over the first layer of ladyfingers.
   • Use a spatula to smooth the cream into an even layer, making sure it reaches all edges.
6. Repeat with a second layer:
   • Dip more ladyfingers in the coffee mixture and arrange them on top of the cream.
   • Spread the remaining mascarpone cream over the second layer, smoothing the top.

Your dish should now show neat, creamy layers, ready for the fridge to work its magic.

4. Chill the Dessert

1. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap.
2. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight.
   • During this time, the ladyfingers soften into a cake-like texture.
   • The spices, coffee, orange, and mascarpone blend into one harmonious Christmas flavor.

5. Finish with a Festive Topping

Right before serving—or up to an hour in advance—decorate your Christmas tiramisu:

1. Use a fine sieve to generously dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder.
2. Sprinkle grated dark chocolate or chocolate curls over the cocoa if you’d like extra richness.
3. For a festive touch, add:
   • A ring of sugared cranberries or pomegranate seeds around the edges.
   • A few crushed candy cane pieces for color and crunch.
   • Mint leaves or tiny rosemary sprigs in the center, like a mini Christmas wreath.

You now have an easy holiday layered “cake” that looks like it belongs on a Christmas dessert table.

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Flavor Variations and Creative Twists

One of the best things about this Christmas Tiramisu is how customizable it is. You can lean into different holiday flavors or adjust it to your family’s preferences without losing the essence of the dessert.

Gingerbread Christmas Tiramisu

Turn your tiramisu into a gingerbread dream:

• Add 1 teaspoon ground ginger and a pinch of cloves to the soaking syrup.
• Stir a teaspoon of molasses into the coffee mixture for deeper, gingerbread-like sweetness.
• Sprinkle a light layer of crushed gingerbread cookies between the ladyfingers and the cream.

This version tastes like a gingerbread house and a tiramisu had a delicious holiday baby.

White Christmas Tiramisu (White Chocolate & Vanilla)

For a softer, snowy look and flavor:

• Melt 100 g (3.5 oz) white chocolate and let it cool slightly.
• Stir the cooled white chocolate into the mascarpone mixture along with the vanilla.
• Use less cocoa on top or dust with a mix of cocoa and powdered sugar for a lighter finish.

You’ll get a sweet, creamy dessert reminiscent of snow-topped Christmas treats.

Berry & Orange Christmas Tiramisu

Add a fresh, vibrant twist:

• Layer fresh raspberries, strawberries, or sliced clementines between the ladyfingers and mascarpone cream.
• Stir a tablespoon of orange marmalade into the coffee–liqueur mixture for extra citrus aroma.
• Garnish the top generously with fresh berries and orange zest.

The tangy fruit cuts through the richness and adds beautiful pops of color.

Nutty Holiday Tiramisu

For some crunch and extra depth:

• Sprinkle toasted chopped hazelnuts, almonds, or pistachios between layers.
• Use amaretto as your liqueur for a delicate almond flavor.

The nuts bring texture and pair wonderfully with the coffee and spice notes.

Alcohol-Free Christmas Tiramisu

To make this dessert family-friendly:

• Omit all alcohol from the recipe.
• Replace the liqueur with extra coffee, hot chocolate, or a mix of milk and vanilla extract.
• Sweeten the soaking syrup slightly with brown sugar or maple syrup to keep it balanced.

You still get a beautiful holiday tiramisu—just without the boozy warmth.

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How to Serve

This Christmas Tiramisu Dessert fits right into the holiday rhythm—it’s make-ahead, sliceable, and easy to style beautifully.

Serving for a Holiday Gathering

• Slice the tiramisu into neat squares or rectangles.
• Transfer each piece to a dessert plate using a spatula.
• Add a few sugared cranberries, a mint leaf, or a small piece of candy cane beside each slice.

The layers of cream and coffee-soaked ladyfingers look stunning on the plate and invite everyone to dig in.

Individual Glasses or Jars

To create a slightly more elegant or portable version:

• Layer small pieces of dipped ladyfingers and Christmas mascarpone cream in clear glasses or jars.
• Repeat until the glass is filled, finishing with cream.
• Dust with cocoa and decorate just before serving.

These individual tiramisu cups are perfect for buffets, parties, or gifting to friends and neighbors.

Pairing Ideas

Serve your Christmas tiramisu with:

• A shot of espresso or a small cappuccino.
• A glass of Baileys, amaretto, or mulled wine for adults.
• A mug of hot chocolate with whipped cream for kids or non-drinkers.

The dessert is rich, so smaller portions paired with a warm drink are usually just right.

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Tips & Variations

A few practical tips will help you get perfect Christmas tiramisu every time.

Choose the Right Ladyfingers

• Use crisp, dry ladyfingers (savoiardi), not soft sponge-style ones.
• The dry texture allows them to soak up the coffee while still holding their structure.

Don’t Oversoak

Ladyfingers absorb liquid very quickly.

• Dip each one briefly—just a second or two per side.
• If they sit in the mixture too long, they can become mushy and make the dessert watery.

Egg-Free Version

If you don’t want to use egg yolks:

• Skip the yolk-sugar cooking step.
• Beat together:
  • Mascarpone
  • Powdered sugar (to taste)
  • Vanilla
  • Liqueur or milk
• Fold in the whipped cream as usual.

You’ll still get a silky, rich cream that layers beautifully.

Make-Ahead & Storage

• This dessert is best made at least 6 hours ahead, and up to 24 hours is ideal.
• Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Dust with cocoa close to serving time for the freshest look.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover tiramisu if needed:

• Wrap the dish tightly or transfer slices to airtight containers.
• Freeze for up to 1 month.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. The texture may soften slightly, but it will still be delicious.

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Final Thoughts

This Christmas Tiramisu Dessert – Easy Holiday Layered Cake Recipe brings together everything we love about the season: comforting flavors, a touch of indulgence, and cozy warmth in every bite. It captures the spirit of classic tiramisu—silky cream, coffee-soaked layers, cocoa on top—and dresses it in Christmas spices, citrus, and optional hints of liqueur.

It’s a dessert that looks impressive on any holiday table yet doesn’t demand complicated techniques or hours of baking. You mix, dip, layer, and chill—and the next day you have a festive showstopper ready to slice and share.

Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering, bringing a dish to a holiday party, or simply treating yourself during the quiet evenings of December, this Christmas tiramisu is a sweet reminder that the most comforting desserts are often the ones that are easiest to share.

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FAQ

Can I make this Christmas Tiramisu a day in advance?
Yes, and it’s actually better that way. The dessert needs time in the refrigerator for the flavors to blend and for the ladyfingers to soften. Making it the day before serving gives you the best texture and saves you time on the big day.

Can I make it without alcohol?
Absolutely. Simply omit the liqueur from both the soaking syrup and the mascarpone cream. Replace it with extra coffee, hot chocolate, or milk flavored with vanilla. You’ll still have a rich, creamy dessert with plenty of holiday character.

What if I can’t find mascarpone?
Mascarpone gives the most authentic texture, but if it’s unavailable you can use a mixture of cream cheese and heavy cream. Soften 300 g cream cheese, beat it until smooth, then mix in a few tablespoons of cream to loosen it before folding in the whipped cream. The flavor will be slightly tangier but still delicious.

Can I use sponge cake instead of ladyfingers?
Yes. A simple vanilla sponge cake or even leftover plain cake can be cut into strips and used in place of ladyfingers. Just be careful when dipping—sponge cake can absorb liquid faster and may need only a very quick brush or drizzle instead of a full dip.

How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftover Christmas tiramisu can be stored, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture may become a bit softer after the second day, but the flavor remains rich and enjoyable.

Can I decorate it differently for other holidays?
Definitely. This layered tiramisu “cake” is a great base for other celebrations—simply change the spices, garnishes, and liqueur (or omit) to match the occasion. For example, pastel sprinkles and berries for spring or hearts of chocolate for Valentine’s Day.

Enjoy creating and sharing your Christmas Tiramisu Dessert—it’s a simple, elegant way to bring a little extra magic to your holiday table.

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