Create-Your-Own-Adventure Tiramisu

I planned to share one fun twist on tiramisu with you, but I couldn't stop.

Originally, I planned to share one fun twist on tiramisu with you. But as I started testing, I kept coming up with more and more directions this dessert could go. So instead of narrowing it down… we're turning this into a Create Your Own Adventure Tiramisu!

Here’s the idea: I’ll give you the building blocks of tiramisu and a bunch of options for how to customize each one. You take it from there. Sound fun? Let’s go!

1. The Base: Cookies

Ladyfingers can be tricky to find, which is where the fun really begins—so many delicious alternatives!

• Classic: Store-bought ladyfingers

• Cookies!

  • Oreo tiramisu (a fan favorite)

  • Chocolate chip cookie tiramisu (I just use the Walmart kind!)

  • Biscoff tiramisu (incredible spiced flavor)

  • Fudge-striped cookie tiramisu (a nod to cookie salad, with a tiramisu twist)

2. The Coffee

You need a powerful coffee flavor to shine through.

• Espresso machine: Great if you have one

• My go-to: Instant coffee

I use 1 cup of hot water and two heaping tablespoons of instant coffee. Make sure to allow it to cool before layering.

3. The Cream Layer

This is where the tiramisu magic happens—lightly sweet, creamy, and rich.

My go-to combo:

8 oz mascarpone cheese
1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
⅔ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Whip mascarpone cream, sugar, and vanilla until smooth in a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment until thick.

No mascarpone? No problem.

• You can make your own. I show you how here!
  

• Or use this easy substitute:

  
  8 oz cream cheese
  1/4 cup heavy whipping cream

  2 tablespoons sour cream
  
  Mix together and you’re good to go!

4. The Cocoa Powder

Just a dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder is the final touch—and most of us already have that in the pantry.

And now to assemble!

Layer it up like this:

1. Dip your cake or cookie base into the coffee

2. Lay it down in your dish

3. Add a layer of cream

4. Dust with cocoa

5. Repeat until your dish is full
   

You can use whatever vessel you’d like—a single-serving cup, a loaf pan, or a 9x13. You don’t need a ton because it’s rich and satisfying.

This dessert feels both special and wildly adaptable. I can’t wait to see what you create!