Tiramisu Cake Roll – Coffee Swiss Roll with Mascarpone Cream

There are few desserts as timeless as tiramisu — that perfect balance of coffee, cream, and cocoa that feels like a warm Italian hug. But when I wanted to give this classic a new twist, I turned it into something light, elegant, and sliceable: the Tiramisu Cake Roll.

Soft espresso-flavored sponge, a dreamy mascarpone filling, and a gentle dusting of cocoa come together in this Tiramisu Cake Roll, a modern coffee swiss roll that captures everything you love about the original Italian dessert — without the layering fuss. It’s the kind of treat that looks impressive at dinner parties yet feels simple enough for a cozy Sunday afternoon bake.

My inspiration came years ago in Florence. I was sitting at a café, sipping espresso, and watching pastry chefs roll thin sheets of sponge for dessert displays. One smiled and said, “It’s tiramisu, but lighter — for people in love with coffee.” That moment stayed with me, and this recipe is my take on that Italian artistry.

If you adore creamy desserts, you’ll fall in love with this mascarpone cake roll, which delivers all the coffee-soaked flavor of a traditional tiramisu in an easy-to-slice roll.
For more elegant creations, browse our Cake Roll Recipes – 10 Delicious & Creative Swiss Roll Ideas to Try, or try classics like the Chocolate Cake Roll and Matcha Swiss Roll Cake.

💛 Why You’ll Love This Tiramisu Cake Roll

• ☕ Coffee Lover’s Dream: Light espresso sponge creates the base for a heavenly Tiramisu Cake Roll.
• 🍰 Creamy Mascarpone Filling: Silky texture and classic Italian flavor in every bite.
• 🍫 Elegant & Show-Stopping: A dessert that looks bakery-made but is easy to prepare.
• ❄️ Make-Ahead Friendly: This Tiramisu Cake Roll chills beautifully — ideal for events or brunches.
• 🍮 Classic Reimagined: Perfect for your list of tiramisu dessert ideas.

If you’re a fan of cocoa-rich desserts, don’t miss our Red Velvet Cake Roll — another indulgent favorite from Chef James.

🧈 Ingredients Needed for Tiramisu Cake Roll

For the Espresso Sponge:

• 4 large eggs – whisked for volume.
• ½ cup sugar – balances the espresso’s intensity.
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder.
• ¾ cup flour.
• 1 tsp baking powder.
• 2 tsp instant espresso powder.
• Pinch of salt.

For the Mascarpone Cream:

• 8 oz mascarpone cheese (room temperature).
• 1 cup heavy cream.
• ¼ cup powdered sugar.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract.
• 1 tsp espresso powder (optional).

For the Coffee Syrup & Finish:

• ½ cup brewed espresso (cooled).
• 1 tbsp Kahlua or rum (optional).
• Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting.

Chef James Tip:
Use high-quality espresso and real mascarpone for authentic flavor — it’s what turns a simple swiss roll into a true Tiramisu Cake Roll masterpiece.

Love creamy tropical desserts? Try our Coconut Snow Roll next.

🍮 How to Make Tiramisu Cake Roll (Step-by-Step)

Step 1 – Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a jelly roll pan with parchment and grease lightly.

Step 2 – Make the Sponge

Whisk eggs and sugar until pale and doubled. Sift in flour, cocoa, espresso powder, and salt. Fold gently to keep airy texture.

Step 3 – Bake

Pour batter evenly, bake 10–12 minutes, until top springs back.

Step 4 – Roll Warm

Invert onto a towel dusted with sugar, peel parchment, roll while warm. Cool completely.

Step 5 – Make the Mascarpone Cream

Whip mascarpone, cream, sugar, vanilla, and espresso powder until thick and smooth.

Step 6 – Assemble the Tiramisu Cake Roll

Unroll the sponge, brush with coffee syrup, spread mascarpone filling evenly, re-roll tightly. Chill 1 hour. Dust with cocoa before serving.

☕ Chef James Tip:
Don’t oversoak the sponge — balance is key in a perfect Tiramisu Cake Roll.

Need more rolling inspiration? See our Cake Roll Recipes guide.

🍫 Recipe Tips & Variations

• Add Kahlua or Marsala wine for traditional tiramisu flavor.
• For a non-alcoholic version, use vanilla extract instead.
• Layer thin chocolate ganache inside before rolling.
• Dust with edible gold for a holiday look.
• Transform leftovers into mini tiramisu dessert ideas in cups.

Chef James Suggestion:
Pair your mascarpone cake roll with a double espresso or affogato — coffee poured over vanilla gelato — a perfect Italian ending.

Don’t miss our Pumpkin Spice Roll for cozy fall flavors.

🧊 Storage & Serving Tips

• Refrigerate: Keep your Tiramisu Cake Roll airtight for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly (before dusting) and freeze up to 2 months.
• Thaw: Overnight in the fridge; dust with cocoa before serving.
• Serve: Always cold to maintain the mascarpone texture.
• Safety: Follow USDA Food Safety Guidelines for cream-based desserts.

For more coffee-inspired desserts, visit our Cake Roll Recipes – 10 Delicious & Creative Swiss Roll Ideas to Try collection.

FAQs (People Also Ask Style)

1️⃣ Can I make Tiramisu Cake Roll without coffee?

Yes! You can replace espresso with hot cocoa or decaf coffee if you prefer a milder version. The creamy mascarpone filling still gives this Tiramisu Cake Roll its luxurious texture and signature flavor — even without caffeine.

---

2️⃣ What’s the difference between tiramisu and Tiramisu Cake Roll?

Traditional tiramisu is layered with ladyfingers and mascarpone cream, while Tiramisu Cake Roll features a light espresso sponge rolled around the same creamy filling. It’s easier to slice, serve, and store — but keeps that irresistible coffee-and-cream taste.

3️⃣ How do you keep a cake roll from cracking?

The key is to roll the sponge while it’s still warm. Rolling early allows the cake to “learn” its shape, so it won’t crack later when filled. Dusting the towel with powdered sugar also prevents sticking.

4️⃣ Can I freeze Tiramisu Cake Roll?

Absolutely. Wrap your Tiramisu Cake Roll tightly in plastic and foil, freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw in the fridge overnight. Always dust with cocoa powder after thawing for a fresh finish.

5️⃣ Can I use store-bought mascarpone or cream cheese?

Yes. Store-bought mascarpone is perfect. If unavailable, you can blend cream cheese and heavy cream to mimic the texture. Just make sure it’s well-whipped and smooth before spreading.

6️⃣ How far in advance can I make Tiramisu Cake Roll?

You can prepare your Tiramisu Cake Roll up to two days in advance. The coffee flavor deepens over time, making it even more delicious for special occasions.

For another elegant roll idea, try our Strawberry Shortcake Roll — it’s a sweet contrast to the deep coffee notes of tiramisu.

🍽️ What to Serve With This Recipe

Pairing your Tiramisu Cake Roll is all about balance — rich yet refreshing.

• ☕ Espresso or Cappuccino: Classic pairing that enhances every cocoa note.
• 🍷 Amaretto or Dessert Wine: For a festive Italian touch.
• 🍓 Fresh Berries: Add a burst of color and natural sweetness.
• 🍋 Lemon Cream Roll: A tangy counterpart to the coffee-rich flavor.
• 🍨 Affogato-Style Serving: Place a slice next to a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzle with espresso.

Each bite of this Tiramisu Cake Roll feels like a little trip to Rome’s finest cafés — elegant, aromatic, and perfectly balanced.

🍰 More Recipes You’ll Love

If you loved this Tiramisu Cake Roll, you’ll fall for these other Chef James creations from Tiramisucake.com:

• 🍫 Chocolate Cake Roll — rich cocoa layers for true chocolate lovers.
• 🍠 Ube Cake Roll — a purple yam beauty inspired by Filipino desserts.
• 🥥 Coconut Snow Roll — a tropical twist with snowy vibes.
• 🍵 Matcha Swiss Roll Cake — light, earthy, and beautifully green.
• 🎂 And of course, our ultimate guide: Cake Roll Recipes – 10 Delicious & Creative Swiss Roll Ideas to Try.

🧾 Recipe Card (WP Recipe Maker Format)

Print

Conclusion

If you believe coffee and dessert belong together, the Tiramisu Cake Roll is proof that heaven exists on a plate. Every slice combines rich espresso flavor, soft sponge, and creamy mascarpone — a balance of sweetness, texture, and sophistication.

Whether you’re preparing it for a dinner party, a romantic evening, or just because you love coffee, this Tiramisu Cake Roll is an elegant way to bring café-style indulgence to your kitchen.

Chef James’s parting words:

“Good coffee and good desserts deserve time and care — and this roll gives you both, one slice at a time.”

If you enjoyed this recipe, discover more Italian-inspired creations in our Cake Roll Recipes – 10 Delicious & Creative Swiss Roll Ideas to Try, and for expert baking safety, visit USDA Food Safety or explore Food Network – Tiramisu Dessert Ideas.