Description
A delightful twist on classic tiramisu, this Gingerbread Tiramisu layers spiced gingerbread cookies soaked in coffee and rum with a creamy mascarpone mixture, creating a festive and luscious dessert perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Mascarpone Cream
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, cold
- 8 oz (225 g) mascarpone cheese, softened
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
Coffee Mixture
- 1 cup (240 ml) strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled
- 2 tbsp dark rum or Kahlúa (optional)
- 2 tbsp molasses or maple syrup
Assembly and Garnish
- 30–36 gingerbread cookies or gingersnap cookies
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Mini gingerbread men (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mascarpone Cream: In a large bowl, beat the cold heavy cream using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. In a separate bowl, whisk together the softened mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until smooth and well combined. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated and fluffy. For best results, chill the mixing bowl and beaters beforehand to achieve a lighter texture.
- Make the Coffee Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the cooled strong brewed coffee or espresso with dark rum or Kahlúa if using, and molasses or maple syrup. Stir thoroughly to blend all the flavors, creating a warm, spiced coffee soak with a hint of sweetness and depth.
- Assemble the Tiramisu: Quickly dip each gingerbread cookie into the coffee mixture for about 1 to 2 seconds on each side to avoid soaking them too much. Arrange a single layer of these dipped cookies at the bottom of an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the cookie layer. Repeat this process with another layer of dipped cookies and then top with the remaining mascarpone cream. Smooth the surface and cover the dish tightly.
- Chill and Serve: Place the assembled tiramisu in the refrigerator and chill for at least 6 hours, or overnight if possible, allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly. Before serving, garnish the top with a generous layer of whipped cream, a dusting of cocoa powder, and optionally, decorate with mini gingerbread men to enhance the festive appearance.
Notes
- Chill the bowl and beaters for making the whipped cream to ensure a lighter, fluffier texture.
- Do not soak the gingerbread cookies too long in the coffee mixture to prevent sogginess; a quick dip is sufficient.
- For an alcohol-free version, omit the rum or Kahlúa and add a little extra molasses for depth.
- This dessert improves in flavor after resting overnight, making it ideal for preparing ahead of time.
- Use fresh, crisp gingerbread or gingersnap cookies for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Gingerbread Tiramisu, Holiday Dessert, Festive Dessert, Mascarpone, Coffee Dessert, Christmas Dessert, No Bake Tiramisu
