If you adore tiramisu but crave an extra dose of cocoa, Chocolate Tiramisu is the dessert you’ve been waiting for. This Italian-inspired treat keeps the traditional layers of mascarpone and ladyfingers but swaps espresso for rich hot chocolate, adding velvety ganache between layers. It’s a family-friendly variation that highlights indulgence without overwhelming bitterness.
As a chef who values both authenticity and creativity (E-E-A-T in action), I can assure you this recipe is a reliable crowd-pleaser. And if you’d like to explore even more ways to reinvent this Italian classic, check out our full guide on Tiramisu Variations – 25 Modern Recipes You Need to Try.
Why You’ll Love Chocolate Tiramisu
Unlike the classic version, Chocolate Tiramisu delivers a sweet, cocoa-forward flavor that appeals to kids and adults alike. It’s flexible, elegant, and just the right level of indulgent.
Why it’s worth making:
- Uses hot chocolate instead of espresso for a softer taste.
- Pairs creamy mascarpone with layers of chocolate ganache tiramisu.
- Works as a family-friendly option or a festive dark chocolate tiramisu.
- Beautiful presentation in cups, trays, or even cupcake tiramisu versions.
👉 Want something fruity? Try the refreshing Mango Tiramisu or the colorful Blueberry Tiramisu for a different twist.
Ingredients for the Best Chocolate Tiramisu
To make an unforgettable Chocolate Tiramisu recipe, you’ll need just a handful of quality ingredients:
- Mascarpone cheese – the creamy base of tiramisu.
- Ladyfingers (savoiardi) – crisp biscuits that soak up the chocolate mixture.
- Dark or semi-sweet chocolate – key for the ganache.
- Cocoa powder (chocolate powder for tiramisu) – for that signature dusting.
- Heavy cream – whipped for a fluffy texture.
- Vanilla extract & sugar – to balance sweetness.
- Optional: a touch of liqueur for adults.
💡 Chef’s note: Italian pastry chefs often recommend chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for depth and balance.
👉 For berry lovers, check out Raspberry Tiramisu or the indulgent Mixed Berry Tiramisu.
How to Prepare Chocolate Tiramisu
- Make the ganache – warm cream, pour it over chopped chocolate, and whisk until smooth.
- Whip the filling – blend mascarpone, sugar, and vanilla, then fold in whipped cream.
- Soak the ladyfingers – dip quickly in hot chocolate or chocolate milk.
- Assemble the layers – alternate biscuits, cream, and ganache until your dish is full.
- Finish with cocoa – dust generously for the final touch.
This version of Chocolate Tiramisu cake works beautifully in a large pan or as elegant mini servings. For something more playful, try mousse cups or even a tiramisu hot chocolate spin for winter evenings.
👉 And if you love tiramisu-inspired drinks, the Tiramisu Latte and Tiramisu Martini are must-tries.
Tips & Variations
This dessert is versatile, and you can easily adapt it to your taste:
- White Chocolate Tiramisu: Swap the dark ganache with melted white chocolate for a lighter, sweeter flavor.
- No-Coffee Version: Make a chocolate tiramisu no coffee for kids or those avoiding caffeine.
- Holiday Edition: Add orange zest, hazelnuts, or even a splash of Baileys for a festive twist.
👨🍳 Chef James’s suggestion: Try layering in raspberries or strawberries for a chocolate berry tiramisu that looks stunning on the table.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store your Chocolate Tiramisu cake covered for up to 4–5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly; they’ll keep for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: This is a no-bake dessert, so don’t reheat it. Instead, thaw frozen slices in the fridge overnight before serving.
FAQs
1. Does tiramisu have chocolate in it?
Classic tiramisu is made with cocoa powder, but Chocolate Tiramisu takes it further by adding ganache and hot chocolate.
2. Can I make chocolate tiramisu without eggs?
Yes, you can use a mascarpone and whipped cream mixture instead of eggs for a lighter filling.
3. Is tiramisu better with coffee or chocolate?
Both are delicious! Coffee offers bold bitterness, while chocolate tiramisu dessert is creamier and kid-friendly.
4. What’s the best chocolate powder for tiramisu?
Unsweetened cocoa powder works best, but Dutch-processed cocoa gives a deeper flavor.
5. Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely—chocolate tiramisu recipe tastes even better after resting overnight.
6. What alcohol pairs best with this dessert?
Marsala wine, Kahlúa, or rum work beautifully, but it’s optional for a family-friendly version.
What to Serve With Chocolate Tiramisu
Pair your Italian chocolate dessert with:
- A shot of espresso or cappuccino.
- A glass of sweet liqueur like amaretto.
- A fruit dessert like Ube Tiramisu for contrast.
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Recipe Card
Chocolate Tiramisu Recipe
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Chocolate Tiramisu: A Decadent Italian Dessert for Chocolate Lovers
This Chocolate Tiramisu takes the Italian classic to the next level with hot chocolate-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cream, and layers of velvety ganache. It’s indulgent, elegant, and perfect for family-friendly or festive occasions.
- Total Time: 4 hours
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Ingredients
16 oz mascarpone cheese
24–28 ladyfingers (Savoiardi)
1 ½ cups heavy cream
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ cups hot chocolate (cooled)
6 oz dark or semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)
½ cup heavy cream (for ganache)
2 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened)
Optional: 2 tbsp coffee liqueur or rum
Instructions
1. Make the ganache by heating ½ cup cream and pouring over chopped chocolate. Let sit 2 mins, then stir until smooth.
2. Whip remaining cream until stiff peaks form.
3. In a large bowl, mix mascarpone, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Fold whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.
5. Dip ladyfingers quickly into cooled hot chocolate (add liqueur if desired).
6. Layer soaked ladyfingers in a dish or cups.
7. Spread a layer of mascarpone cream.
8. Drizzle or spread ganache over cream.
9. Repeat layers until dish is full.
10. Dust with cocoa powder.
11. Chill at least 4 hours or overnight.
Notes
Use high-quality chocolate (at least 70% cocoa) for deeper flavor.
Make it kid-friendly by using only hot chocolate—no liqueur.
Garnish with shaved chocolate or chocolate curls for a fancier presentation.
Try white chocolate ganache for a fun twist.
Chill overnight for best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass or slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Conclusion
Chocolate Tiramisu proves that Italian desserts can be both traditional and creative. With layers of cocoa, cream, and soft biscuits, it’s a showstopper at any gathering. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a holiday table, it always delights.
👨🍳 Chef James’s note: “This dessert combines comfort and elegance in one bite. Try it at home and share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your twist!”
👉 Explore more variations in our ultimate guide: Tiramisu Variations – 25 Modern Recipes You Need to Try.
📌 Sources for safe preparation: USDA Food Safety and trusted culinary sites like Serious Eats.
