Chocolate Tiramisu Recipe

Chocolate Tiramisu is a dreamy dessert that takes the classic Italian tiramisu and turns up the indulgence with a luscious chocolate custard and creamy mascarpone layers. This recipe combines all the best things about tiramisu—airy ladyfingers soaked in vanilla-kissed hot chocolate, fluffy whipped cream, and ultra-rich chocolate custard—into one show-stopping, yet wonderfully easy treat. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser for a special occasion or a fast fix for a sweet craving on a wild weeknight, this Chocolate Tiramisu is truly a revelation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what brings this Chocolate Tiramisu to life and some tips to get the best out of each component:

• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the custard and mascarpone layers; adjust to taste if you like your dessert less sweet.
• Cornstarch: Essential for thickening the chocolate custard so every layer stays creamy and luscious.
• Milk: Adds richness to the custard, and helps balance the chocolate.
• Heavy Cream: Whipped for billowy volume in the mascarpone layer, and enriches the custard for mouth-coating smoothness.
• Dark Chocolate or Chocolate Chips: Go for good-quality chocolate for deeper flavor—chips or chopped bars both work.
• Egg Yolks: They give the custard its silky texture.
• Butter: Stirs in at the end for extra shine and richness.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and rounds out all the flavors.
• Ladyfingers: Store-bought is perfectly fine, and makes for quick assembly. Stale ones soak up more flavor!
• Hot Chocolate: Used to soak the ladyfingers; make it strong for the fullest flavor.
• Mascarpone Cheese: This is non-negotiable for traditional tiramisu taste—its creamy tang is unbeatable.
• Chocolate Curls or Cocoa Powder: For a knockout finish, dust with cocoa or shower with chocolate shavings right before serving.
• Tip: If you want even more chocolate drama, sprinkle mini chocolate chips between layers!

Variations

No two tiramisus are ever quite alike, and that’s half the fun. Try these ideas:

• Mocha Twist: Swap half the hot chocolate for strong coffee, or add a shot of espresso for a grown-up kick.
• Berry Layer: Slip in a layer of sliced strawberries or raspberries between the cream for a fruity finish.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted hazelnuts or almonds on top.
• White Chocolate Version: Use white chocolate for the custard instead of dark, or create a striking marbled effect by swirling both together.
• Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free ladyfingers if needed—most stores carry them now.

How to Make Chocolate Tiramisu

Step 1: Make the Chocolate Custard

Start with the custard. In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, milk, cream, and chocolate. Stir until it gently bubbles and thickens—watch for that glossy, pudding-like texture. Next, “temper” the egg yolks so they don’t scramble—whisk a bit of the hot chocolate mix into the yolks separately, then return it all to the pan and cook for another minute or so. Off the heat, stir in butter and vanilla for a satiny finish. Let it cool in the fridge until you’re ready to layer.

Step 2: Prepare the Ladyfingers

Mix hot chocolate and vanilla in a bowl. Dip ladyfingers quickly—just a second per finger, so they stay soft but don’t fall apart. Arrange the first layer (about 14) in your pan. If they don’t fit exactly, break them in half to cover the whole base.

Step 3: Make the Mascarpone Cream

In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream and half the sugar with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the mascarpone. This fluffy, tangy mix will be the (literal) glue that holds your tiramisu together.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Spread half the mascarpone mixture over the first layer of ladyfingers. Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers, then spoon over all your cooled chocolate custard. Create a final layer of ladyfingers—again, dip briefly. Finish with the remaining mascarpone mixture spread evenly on top.

Step 5: Chill and Finish

Pop the tiramisu in the fridge for at least two hours. This time lets the flavors become friends and the layers set to scoopable perfection. Just before serving, dust with cocoa powder or add chocolate shavings for a swoon-worthy look.

How to Serve

Chocolate Tiramisu is naturally the star of any dessert table and makes a memorable finish to even the simplest dinner. Cut neat squares and lift with a spatula, or serve in individual glasses for a more modern presentation. Pair with espresso or a little glass of dessert wine if you want to feel seriously Italian. Add fresh berries on the side for a touch of color and a hint of tartness to balance all that chocolatey goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and store in the fridge for up to four days. The flavor only gets better as it sits!

Freezing

Chocolate tiramisu freezes surprisingly well—just wrap tightly and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

No need to reheat—this dessert is meant to be served chilled. In fact, it’s even better if you let it rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to take the chill off.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Tiramisu isn’t just a recipe—it’s a little taste of celebration that fits right into even the busiest days. Each creamy, chocolatey bite is totally worth the (minimal!) effort, and you’ll find yourself coming back to this one again and again. Don’t hesitate to put your own spin on it, share it with friends, or sneak a square straight from the fridge. Dive in, have fun, and let this dessert become your new go-to favorite!

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