Earl Grey Tiramisu Recipe

Discover the irresistible charm of my favorite comfort dessert with this Earl Grey Tiramisu Recipe. It’s a delectable twist on a classic Italian treat, where the fragrant bergamot notes of Earl Grey tea beautifully meld with the creamy mascarpone and coffee-soaked ladyfingers. This delightful combination delivers an elegant, aromatic, and indulgent dessert that feels both cozy and sophisticated—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to an unforgettable sweet moment.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Earl Grey Tiramisu Recipe calls for simple, yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients that harmonize to deliver that rich, velvety texture and signature flavor. Each component is essential: the mascarpone for creaminess, the infused coffee for a fragrant depth, and the ladyfingers to soak up all that goodness perfectly.

• 1 ½ cups strong brewed coffee: The base liquid, providing a robust flavor that complements the Earl Grey infusion.
• 2 Earl Grey tea bags: To bring that delightful bergamot citrus aroma into the coffee, elevating the classic tiramisu.
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream: Whipped to fluffy perfection, adding lightness and richness.
• 16 ounces mascarpone cheese: The silky, creamy heart of this dessert, which balances sweetness with a subtle tang.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone mixture just enough to complement the bitterness of the coffee and cocoa.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the creamy filling.
• 1 (12-ounce) package ladyfingers: These airy biscuits absorb the flavored coffee, giving tiramisu its signature texture.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: For dusting on top, offering a bitter contrast to the sweet cream.
• Optional: Chocolate shavings and fresh berries: To add a beautiful finishing touch and bursts of freshness.

How to Make Earl Grey Tiramisu Recipe

Step 1: Brew Strong Coffee

Start by brewing 1 ½ cups of strong coffee and allow it to cool just a bit. This rich coffee forms the flavor foundation of your tiramisu, so don’t shy away from a bold brew.

Step 2: Infuse with Earl Grey

Place the two Earl Grey tea bags into the warm coffee and let them steep for 10 to 15 minutes. This infusion introduces those lovely bergamot notes that make this tiramisu so unique and inviting. Once infused, remove the tea bags and allow the coffee to cool completely before using.

Step 3: Whip Heavy Cream

Use an electric mixer to whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Properly whipped cream adds that airy, cloud-like texture we all adore in this dessert.

Step 4: Combine Mascarpone and Sugar

In a separate bowl, beat together mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this step ensures a luscious filling that’s not too sweet but perfectly sweetened.

Step 5: Fold in Whipped Cream

Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture. Be careful here — folding instead of stirring keeps the mixture light and airy, which is key to a perfect tiramisu texture.

Step 6: Dip Ladyfingers

Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled Earl Grey coffee infusion, making sure not to soak them for too long or they will become mushy. They should be just moist enough to absorb flavor while holding their shape.

Step 7: Layer the Ladyfingers

Arrange a layer of the coffee-soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of your chosen dish, creating a sturdy yet tender base for the cream layers.

Step 8: Spread Mascarpone Cream

Evenly spread half of the mascarpone cream over your ladyfinger layer, ensuring every corner is covered for a balanced bite of cream and biscuit.

Step 9: Repeat Layers

Create a second layer by repeating the ladyfinger dipping and spreading the remaining mascarpone cream on top. These layers build the classic texture and flavor profile.

Step 10: Chill

Cover the tiramisu tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or better yet, overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to marry and the ladyfingers to soften perfectly.

Step 11: Dust with Cocoa

Right before serving, generously dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder. This adds a pleasant bitterness that perfectly balances the sweet creaminess.

Step 12: Optional Garnishes

Sprinkle chocolate shavings and fresh berries over the top for an added burst of elegance and freshness. These are not just pretty—they introduce exciting texture contrasts and flavors.

Step 13: Serve

Cut your luscious Earl Grey Tiramisu Recipe into squares or scoop into individual glasses and enjoy the delightful layers of flavor and texture.

How to Serve Earl Grey Tiramisu Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a dusting of cocoa powder is essential, but for something extra special, chocolate shavings bring a delightful texture, while fresh berries provide a juicy pop that brightens the richness of the cream. These finishing touches make your presentation impressive and inviting.

Side Dishes

This tiramisu shines best as a stand-alone dessert after a meal, but if you want to serve it alongside something, light fruit salads or a cup of hot Earl Grey tea complement the flavors beautifully without overpowering the dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, build individual servings in clear glasses so every delicious layer is visible. You can also use decorative ramekins or mason jars for a rustic touch that’s perfect for entertaining friends or a special occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Earl Grey Tiramisu Recipe tightly covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and moist for up to three days, giving you easy access to a second indulgence without any extra effort.

Freezing

While tiramisu is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to a month. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

Tiramisu is meant to be eaten chilled, so reheating isn’t recommended. Simply enjoy it straight from the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor experience.

FAQs

Can I use regular black tea instead of Earl Grey?

While regular black tea works, it won’t provide the distinctive bergamot flavor that makes this Earl Grey Tiramisu Recipe so special. For that unique citrusy aroma, Earl Grey tea is definitely the better choice.

Can I make this tiramisu dairy-free?

You can try substituting mascarpone with a dairy-free cream cheese and using coconut cream instead of heavy cream, but note the texture and flavor will differ. It’s worth experimenting to find the combination you love.

How long should I let the tiramisu chill?

A minimum of four hours is ideal to allow the layers to set and the flavors to blend, but chilling overnight yields the best results for mood-enhancing indulgence.

Can I prepare this dessert in individual portions?

Absolutely! Using small glasses or ramekins allows for elegant individual servings and makes for a beautiful presentation perfect for guests or special occasions.

What’s the best way to avoid soggy ladyfingers?

Dip the ladyfingers quickly into the cooled coffee-Earl Grey infusion—just enough to soak them lightly. This keeps them tender but intact, maintaining the tiramisu’s signature texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping dessert that blends classic Italian charm with aromatic tea sophistication, this Earl Grey Tiramisu Recipe is a must-try. It’s a beloved twist that feels personal and luxurious at once, guaranteed to brighten any occasion. I can’t wait for you to make it and fall in love with every creamy, fragrant bite.

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