Chocolate Tiramisu Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to a Decadent Dessert

If you’re a chocolate lover, this chocolate tiramisu recipe will instantly become your go-to dessert. It’s a luscious twist on the classic Italian tiramisu, combining layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, rich chocolate mascarpone cream, and velvety ganache for an indulgent, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Unlike the traditional version that leans purely on coffee and cocoa powder, this variation adds a luxurious chocolate ganache layer that deepens the flavor, making each bite even more irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a make-ahead treat for the weekend, this dessert checks every box: elegant, crowd-pleasing, and surprisingly easy to make.

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Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Tiramisu Recipe

This chocolate tiramisu combines the best of two worlds chocolate and coffee in one unforgettable bite. Here’s why it works so beautifully:

• Perfect flavor balance: The slight bitterness of espresso complements the sweetness of dark chocolate.
• No baking required: It’s a no-bake dessert recipe, making it quick and stress-free.
• Make-ahead friendly: The flavor and texture improve after chilling overnight.
• Customizable: You can easily make it eggless, alcohol-free, or even vegan.

What Is Chocolate Tiramisu?

Classic tiramisu originates from Northern Italy and is traditionally made with espresso-soaked ladyfingers layered between whipped mascarpone cream and dusted with cocoa powder.

The chocolate tiramisu recipe elevates this dessert by adding melted dark chocolate or chocolate ganache into the mascarpone filling, creating a richer, more intense version. Some variations also drizzle chocolate syrup or sprinkle chocolate shavings between layers for extra decadence.

It’s ideal for anyone who loves coffee desserts, Italian desserts, or simply a good chocolate mousse-like treat.

Ingredients for Chocolate Tiramisu Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect chocolate tiramisu at home.

For the Coffee Soak

• 1 ½ cups strong brewed espresso or coffee
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons sugar (optional)
• 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (Kahlua, Tia Maria, or Marsala wine optional)

For the Chocolate Mascarpone Cream

• 1 cup heavy cream (cold)
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
• 3 egg yolks (optional)
• ½ cup sugar
• 200g dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), melted and cooled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For Assembly

• 24–30 ladyfingers (savoiardi biscuits)
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
• Chocolate shavings or grated chocolate (for garnish)

Equipment You’ll Need

• 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch baking dish
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Fine-mesh sieve (for dusting cocoa)
• Offset spatula (for smooth layering)

How to Make Chocolate Tiramisu (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Step 1 — Prepare the Coffee Soak

In a bowl, combine espresso, cocoa powder, and coffee liqueur. Stir until fully dissolved and set aside to cool.
Tip: Don’t oversaturate your ladyfingers a quick dip (about 1–2 seconds) is all they need to stay firm.

Step 2 — Make the Chocolate Mascarpone Cream

1. In a heatproof bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar over simmering water until pale and thickened (about 5 minutes). Let cool. (Skip this step for eggless version.)
2. Melt the dark chocolate and let it cool slightly.
3. In another bowl, whip cold heavy cream until soft peaks form.
4. Fold together mascarpone, chocolate, and vanilla extract, then gently fold in the whipped cream until smooth and airy.

This creates a chocolate mascarpone mousse that’s light yet decadent the heart of your tiramisu.

Step 3 — Layer the Chocolate Tiramisu

1. Dip ladyfingers lightly into the coffee mixture and arrange them in the bottom of your dish.
2. Spread half of the chocolate mascarpone cream evenly over the layer.
3. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and remaining cream.
4. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 4 — Chill & Set

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. This allows the layers to firm up and flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5 — Garnish and Serve

Dust generously with unsweetened cocoa powder, add chocolate curls, or drizzle ganache over the top. Slice, serve chilled, and enjoy every creamy, chocolatey bite.

Chocolate Tiramisu Variations

1. Eggless Chocolate Tiramisu

Skip the yolks and make the cream using whipped cream + mascarpone + melted chocolate. This version is safer and lighter while keeping the same silky texture.

2. White Chocolate Tiramisu

Substitute dark chocolate with white chocolate and top with raspberries or strawberries for a fruity twist.

3. Mocha Tiramisu

Add 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder to the chocolate mixture for a stronger coffee kick.

4. Boozy Chocolate Tiramisu

Use Kahlua, rum, or Baileys Irish Cream in the coffee soak for a grown-up dessert.

5. Vegan Chocolate Tiramisu

Replace mascarpone with vegan cream cheese, use coconut cream, and swap ladyfingers for dairy-free biscuits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned bakers can run into issues with tiramisu. Here’s how to prevent them:

• Soggy layers: Don’t soak ladyfingers too long.
• Runny cream: Chill your bowl and whisk before whipping.
• Grainy chocolate: Cool melted chocolate before mixing with cream.
• Weak flavor: Use strong espresso — it balances the sweetness.

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Tiramisu

• Refrigerate: Store covered for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze slices in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
• Pro tip: Add fresh cocoa powder after thawing to restore that deep chocolate aroma.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled with an espresso shot or dessert wine like Vin Santo.
• Garnish with chocolate curls, cacao nibs, or a dusting of Dutch-process cocoa for a professional finish.
• For a café-style touch, use individual glass cups to show off the dessert’s layers.

Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Fat: 29g
• Carbs: 35g
• Protein: 6g

FAQs

What’s the difference between tiramisu and chocolate tiramisu?

Traditional tiramisu uses cocoa powder and espresso, while chocolate tiramisu includes melted chocolate or ganache for a richer taste.

Can I make chocolate tiramisu without eggs?

Absolutely! Use whipped cream and mascarpone as your base no yolks needed.

How long does tiramisu need to chill?

At least 4 hours, but overnight gives the best texture and flavor.

Can I use hot chocolate instead of coffee?

Yes, for a caffeine-free version, use strong hot chocolate or decaf espresso.

What’s the best chocolate for tiramisu?

Use dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa) for balance not too sweet, not too bitter.

Can I freeze chocolate tiramisu?

Yes! Freeze in portions, then thaw overnight in the fridge. It keeps texture surprisingly well.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Tiramisu

• Chill your mixing bowl and whisk for faster whipping.
• Use high-quality mascarpone it’s key to a creamy texture.
• Layer neatly for a beautiful presentation.
• Always let it rest overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

Final Thoughts

This chocolate tiramisu recipe takes everything you love about traditional tiramisu and adds a bold, velvety layer of chocolate indulgence. It’s luxurious yet easy, impressive yet approachable the kind of dessert that makes people pause after the first bite.

So next time you’re planning a dinner party or need a make-ahead dessert, try this recipe. It’s the perfect blend of Italian elegance and chocolate comfort.

If you’re serving chocolate tiramisu in your café, bakery, or catering business explore eco-friendly dessert packaging options that protect freshness while staying kind to the planet.