Gluten-Free Tiramisu – Easy, Creamy & Irresistible No Bake Dessert

A slice of gluten free tiramisu with espresso.
A perfect serving of gluten free tiramisu with coffee.

Hey friends, Chef James here from Tiramisucake.com! Today we’re giving a classic a celiac-friendly twist with my creamy, coffee-kissed Gluten-Free Tiramisu. I created this version for my sister, who eats gluten-free, and I promise it delivers everything you love—silky mascarpone, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, a dusting of bitter cocoa—just without the gluten. It’s the kind of gluten-free Italian dessert that busy weeknights, potlucks, and holidays secretly hope you’ll bring.

Want to master every angle of this iconic dessert? Dive into our pillar: The Ultimate Guide to Tiramisu—your roadmap to techniques, swaps, and troubleshooting.

Craving variety? Try these reader favorites too:

This gluten-free no bake dessert is as make-ahead as it gets, and the texture actually improves overnight—hello, effortless entertaining. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a foolproof method, dairy-free options, and alcohol or no-alcohol paths so everyone at the table gets a slice.

Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Tiramisu

Here’s why this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen:

  • Completely gluten-free yet indulgent – thanks to gluten-free ladyfingers, you get that authentic texture without compromise.
  • No bake, no stress – this is the ultimate gluten-free no bake dessert, perfect for busy weeknights or hot summer days.
  • Creamy yet light – the blend of mascarpone and whipped egg whites creates a luscious, airy texture.
  • Versatile for any occasion – make it a gluten-free tiramisu with alcohol (Marsala or Amaretto) for adults, or a gluten-free tiramisu without alcohol for a family-friendly treat.
  • Holiday-ready – add a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even pumpkin spice for a festive twist.
  • Dairy-free option available – swap mascarpone for a plant-based version and you’ll have a delightful gluten free dairy free tiramisu.

👉 What about you—do you prefer your tiramisu with a splash of liqueur, or alcohol-free so everyone can enjoy it?

Ingredients Needed for Gluten-Free Tiramisu

Flatlay of ingredients for gluten free tiramisu
Essential ingredients for making gluten free tiramisu.

To make the best Gluten-Free Tiramisu, you only need a handful of ingredients—but every one of them plays an important role:

  • Gluten-free ladyfingers – These are the backbone of tiramisu. Many US stores like Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, or Aldi now carry them. If you can’t find any, you can bake your own or use gluten-free sponge cake.
  • Mascarpone cheese – This creamy Italian cheese gives tiramisu its signature texture. For a gluten free dairy free tiramisu, swap with vegan mascarpone or whipped coconut cream.
  • Eggs (separated) – Yolks make the custard rich, while whipped whites create that fluffy, airy texture.
  • Sugar – For sweetness and balance. You can use coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener if you’re making a keto-friendly version.
  • Strong coffee or espresso – Classic tiramisu flavor. Go decaf for kids, or double-shot espresso for coffee lovers.
  • Marsala wine or Amaretto (optional) – For a more grown-up gluten-free tiramisu with alcohol. Omit if you want a family-friendly gluten-free tiramisu without alcohol.
  • Cocoa powder (unsweetened) – That final dusting is non-negotiable—it gives the bitter contrast that makes tiramisu unforgettable.

👉 Pro Tip from Chef James: Chill your mixing bowl before whipping egg whites. It makes them firmer and easier to fold into the mascarpone mixture.

How to Make Gluten-Free Tiramisu Step by Step

Hands dipping gluten free ladyfingers in espresso.
Preparing tiramisu by dipping gluten free cookies in coffee.

Here’s how to assemble your Gluten-Free Tiramisu like a pro:

  1. Brew the coffee – Make a strong espresso or coffee and let it cool. Add Marsala or Amaretto if desired.
  2. Whisk the yolks + sugar – Beat until pale and fluffy. This forms the base of your creamy custard.
  3. Add mascarpone – Gently fold in the mascarpone until smooth and lump-free.
  4. Whip the egg whites – Beat until stiff peaks form, then carefully fold into the mascarpone cream. This is what makes tiramisu light and airy.
  5. Dip the gluten-free ladyfingers – Quickly dip each biscuit in the cooled coffee. Don’t soak them—they’ll fall apart.
  6. Assemble layers – In a dish, layer dipped ladyfingers, then cream, repeating until full. Finish with a generous dusting of cocoa powder.
  7. Chill – Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight, so the flavors blend beautifully.

👉 Chef James’s Extra Tip: For an even richer experience, add a thin layer of grated dark chocolate between the cream layers. It melts slightly and makes every bite more decadent.

Gluten-Free Tiramisu Tips & Variations

Creamy mascarpone layer in gluten free tiramisu.
Smooth mascarpone spread over coffee-soaked gluten free ladyfingers.

This gluten free tiramisu dessert recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to customize it:

  • Keto-Friendly Tiramisu – Use sugar substitutes and low-carb ladyfingers (almond flour-based).
  • Dairy-Free Tiramisu – Replace mascarpone with vegan cream cheese or cashew cream. Use plant-based milk for dipping.
  • Holiday Tiramisu – Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice for Thanksgiving; or a splash of peppermint extract for Christmas.
  • Chef James’s suggestion: I love making individual tiramisu cups for parties—less mess, perfect portions, and they look elegant on a holiday table.

How to Store Gluten-Free Tiramisu

One of the best things about Gluten-Free Tiramisu is that it stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or parties:

  • In the fridge – Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate up to 3 days. The flavors actually get better after 24 hours.
  • In the freezer – Freeze portions (without cocoa topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
  • Reheating – Not needed! This is a chilled dessert. Simply dust with fresh cocoa or grated chocolate right before serving.

👉 Chef James Tip: If freezing, assemble the tiramisu in individual jars. It makes defrosting quicker and keeps portions neat.

Chef James presenting gluten free tiramisu.
Chef James shares his gluten free tiramisu recipe.

Gluten-Free Tiramisu FAQs

1. Is tiramisu naturally gluten free?

No. Classic tiramisu uses wheat-based ladyfingers. To make it safe for a gluten-free diet, use certified gluten free cookies or sponge cake alternatives.

2. What can I substitute for gluten free ladyfingers?

If you can’t find them, try gluten free pound cake, almond flour sponge, or even gluten free graham crackers. Just dip them lightly into coffee to avoid sogginess.

3. Can I prepare this dessert without alcohol?

Yes! Many home bakers skip Marsala or Amaretto. A strong shot of espresso alone makes a delicious alcohol-free Italian dessert.

4. How long does it last in the fridge?

This creamy no bake treat keeps fresh for 2–3 days in the refrigerator. It actually tastes better the next day when the flavors have melded together.

5. Can I make it ahead of time?

Definitely. This coffee-based dessert is ideal for preparing the night before a party since it requires chilling anyway.

6. How do I create a dairy-free version?

Swap mascarpone for vegan cream cheese, cashew cream, or coconut whip, and use plant-based milk for dipping. This gives you a dairy-free and gluten free dessert that stays light and creamy.


What to Serve With Gluten-Free Tiramisu

This Italian-inspired no bake dessert pairs beautifully with:

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If you enjoy coffee-flavored or layered desserts, you’ll also love:

Gluten-Free Tiramisu Recipe Card

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Gluten-Free Tiramisu in a glass dish with cocoa dusting.

Gluten-Free Tiramisu – Easy, Creamy & Irresistible No Bake Dessert

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A rich and creamy Gluten-Free Tiramisu made with gluten-free ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, espresso, and a dusting of cocoa. No bake, celiac-safe, and incredibly indulgent!

  • Total Time: 6 hours
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Gluten-free ladyfingers

Mascarpone cheese

Eggs (separated)

Granulated sugar

Strong coffee or espresso

Marsala wine or Amaretto (optional)

Cocoa powder (unsweetened)

Optional: grated dark chocolate

Instructions

1. Brew strong coffee or espresso and let it cool. Add Marsala or Amaretto if using.

2. Whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy.

3. Add mascarpone to the yolk mixture and mix until smooth.

4. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites to stiff peaks.

5. Gently fold the egg whites into the mascarpone mixture.

6. Dip gluten-free ladyfingers quickly into the coffee.

7. Layer soaked ladyfingers in a dish, then spread cream mixture.

8. Repeat layers and finish with cream.

9. Dust with cocoa powder and optional grated chocolate.

10. Chill for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Notes

Use decaf espresso and omit alcohol for a family-friendly version.

Make ahead: tastes even better after 24 hours.

Use coconut whipped cream and vegan mascarpone for a dairy-free version.

Add cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a holiday twist.

  • Author: Tiramisu Cake
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 370
  • Sugar: 17g
  • Sodium: 110mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 29g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Conclusion

And there you have it—a silky, coffee-soaked gluten free dessert that feels indulgent but is safe for those avoiding wheat. This recipe is proof that Italian classics can be adapted without losing their charm.

For even more variations and expert tips, explore our resource: The Ultimate Guide to Tiramisu.

👉 Give this recipe a try and share your results in the comments—I’d love to hear how it turned out in your kitchen!

Trusted Culinary Sources

Serious Eats – Tiramisu Guide

USDA Food Safety

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