Name: Chocolate Tiramisu Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, (1 cup), finely chopped; 1 3/4 cup heavy cream, divided use; 6 large egg yolks, at room temperature; 7 oz granulated sugar, (1 cup); 1 lb mascarpone cheese; 1/4 tsp salt; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 24-30 ladyfingers, the soft variety, (use up to 40 if using a 9×13 pan); 2 cups prepared hot chocolate, strong, cooled to room temperature

Chocolate Tiramisu is an irresistible dessert mash-up that combines the creamy bliss of classic tiramisu with the dreamy decadence of rich chocolate ganache and a hint of comforting hot chocolate soaked into every bite. Imagine velvety mascarpone cream, perfectly soft ladyfingers, and waves of chocolate coming together into one luscious treat. Whether for family gatherings, a cozy dinner party, or a special night in, this dessert brings sheer joy to any table and leaves everyone swooning for another spoonful of Chocolate Tiramisu.

Chocolate Tiramisu Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Chocolate Tiramisu starts with accessible ingredients that, when layered just right, turn into pure luxury. Every single component plays a crucial role in building layer upon layer of flavor, texture, and richness. Don’t skip the details—each ingredient brings something special to the party!

Semi-sweet chocolate (6 oz, about 1 cup, finely chopped): The foundation for a sumptuous ganache that gives this tiramisu its chocolatey heart.
Heavy cream (1 3/4 cup, divided): Creates a silky chocolate ganache and helps whip up an airy mascarpone cream layer—make sure it’s cold for best results!
Large egg yolks (6, at room temperature): Add luxurious, custardy richness and help thicken the tiramisu cream beautifully.
Granulated sugar (7 oz, about 1 cup): Sweetens and stabilizes the mascarpone filling, balancing the deep flavors of chocolate.
Mascarpone cheese (1 lb): The key to that classic creamy texture—its subtle tang blends perfectly with chocolate and vanilla.
Salt (1/4 tsp): Just a pinch makes the sweet flavors pop and sharpens the chocolatey depth.
Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Brings warmth and enhances the overall flavor—a beloved classic in Italian desserts.
Lady fingers (24–30 soft variety, or up to 40 if using a 9×13 pan): These act as the sponge, soaking in the hot chocolate for pillowy bites. Use more if you’re making a family-size batch!
Prepared hot chocolate (2 cups, strong, cooled): Swap out espresso for hot chocolate to infuse each ladyfinger with comforting chocolate flavor. Make it rich!

How to Make Chocolate Tiramisu

Step 1: Make the Chocolate Ganache

Start by placing the finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a small mixing bowl. Pour one cup of heavy cream into a saucepan and heat it over medium heat until you see bubbles gather on the sides—don’t let it boil! Once simmering, pour the hot cream over the chocolate. Let it sit for a minute to gently melt, then whisk together until glossy and smooth. Cover with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface and chill just long enough for it to thicken—I like to think of the perfect texture as “soft peanut butter.”

Step 2: Whip Up the Mascarpone Cream

While your ganache is chilling, get out your stand mixer. Combine room-temperature egg yolks and sugar in the bowl and whisk them at medium-high speed for two to three minutes, until they’re impossibly thick and pale. If you lift your whisk, the mixture should fall in a slow ribbon. Next, blend in mascarpone, salt, and vanilla at medium-low speed, taking care not to overbeat. Mascarpone is delicate, so treat it with a gentle hand to keep the texture luscious and smooth.

Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Cream

Transfer your mascarpone mixture to a separate bowl. Without cleaning your mixing bowl, add the remaining 3/4 cup of heavy cream and whip it to firm peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, working in several stages, to keep everything light and cloud-like. This step guarantees your Chocolate Tiramisu will have that dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth consistency!

Step 4: Layer Your Chocolate Tiramisu

Now the fun begins! Spoon a thin layer of chilled chocolate ganache onto the bottoms of your serving cups—or a 9×13 pan, if you prefer to go big. One at a time, dip each ladyfinger briefly into cooled hot chocolate (don’t let them get soggy!), then line them up evenly over the ganache. If needed, break the ladyfingers to fit. Top with a generous layer of mascarpone cream—using a pastry bag or plastic bag with the corner snipped makes this super easy. Add another thin spread of chocolate, then repeat the ladyfingers, mascarpone, and chocolate layering once again, finishing with a fluffy mascarpone crown on top.

Step 5: Final Touches and Chilling

Sprinkle the top with shaved chocolate, a dusting of unsweetened cocoa, or maybe even a swirl of whipped cream. Let the assembled Chocolate Tiramisu chill in the fridge for at least two hours. This rest time is essential—it lets all those chocolate and cream flavors meld and the texture set to perfection.

How to Serve Chocolate Tiramisu

Garnishes

A classic finish for Chocolate Tiramisu is a generous tumble of chocolate shavings or a flutter of cocoa powder over the top. Whipped cream rosettes add a dash of retro drama, while a sprinkle of chocolate curls looks ever so inviting. For something extra special, top with chocolate-covered espresso beans or a drizzle of melted chocolate. The garnish is your chance to let your creativity shine!

Side Dishes

Since Chocolate Tiramisu is rich and decadent, it pairs beautifully with something fresh and light. Serve it alongside a bowl of fresh raspberries, sliced strawberries, or even tangy orange segments to balance out the intense chocolate flavor. A little dish of lemon sorbet on the side can also be wonderfully refreshing and is a fantastic palate cleanser.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the traditional pan! Chocolate Tiramisu looks stunning in individual trifle glasses, vintage teacups, or even little canning jars for a picnic treat. Miniature versions in shot glasses are perfect for parties, and you can layer different toppings—like crushed amaretti cookies or roasted hazelnuts—for a playful twist. No matter how you serve it, this dessert always gets attention.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chocolate Tiramisu stores like a dream! Just press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to keep it from drying out and tuck it into the fridge. Leftovers will stay fresh and creamy for up to five days, and many say the flavors actually deepen and improve after a day or two.

Freezing

If you’re thinking ahead or want to savor Chocolate Tiramisu for future cravings, you can freeze it. Assemble the dessert, wrap it tightly (preferably in both plastic and foil), and store for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving—the texture will still be lovely, though garnish with fresh whipped cream and chocolate shavings for best presentation.

Reheating

Tiramisu is meant to be served cold or just slightly cool; reheating isn’t necessary and can melt or separate the delicate mascarpone cream. If it seems too firm from the fridge, let it sit on the counter for 15-20 minutes so it softens to the perfect, spoonable state.

FAQs

Can I use instant hot chocolate mix for the soak?

Absolutely! Just make sure you prepare the hot chocolate nice and strong—the deeper the chocolate flavor, the better it complements the rest of the Chocolate Tiramisu. Taste-test your mix and feel free to add an extra scoop of cocoa powder for richness.

What if I can’t find mascarpone cheese?

Mascarpone is key to the classic texture, but if you’re really in a pinch, you can substitute full-fat cream cheese blended with a splash of cream until smooth. The flavor will be slightly more tangy, but still absolutely delicious.

Can I make Chocolate Tiramisu without raw eggs?

If raw eggs are a concern, you can use a sabayon technique: gently heat the egg yolks and sugar together over a double boiler, whisking constantly, until the mixture is thickened and safe to eat. Or, look for pasteurized eggs at your grocery store, which are safe for making desserts like this.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Yes! Simply swap traditional ladyfingers for gluten-free versions—they’re available in many specialty stores or online. Just be cautious when soaking, as some gluten-free varieties soften more quickly than the classic kind.

Can I add a splash of liqueur to Chocolate Tiramisu?

Definitely! A hint of coffee liqueur, orange liqueur, or even chocolate liqueur gives this dessert an extra depth and a grown-up edge. Stir a couple tablespoons into the hot chocolate before soaking your ladyfingers—just don’t overdo it, so the flavors balance beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about sharing a pan (or a row of jars!) of Chocolate Tiramisu with the people you care about. It combines comfort and elegance into one unforgettable treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. I hope you give this recipe a try and make Chocolate Tiramisu the star at your next gathering—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears!