White Chocolate Tiramisu – A Creamy Twist on the Classic Italian Dessert

White Chocolate Tiramisu served with holiday decorations.
White Chocolate Tiramisu ready for a festive table.

There’s something magical about tiramisu. For generations, this Italian classic has been a symbol of comfort and indulgence — delicate layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, velvety mascarpone cream, and that irresistible dusting of cocoa. It’s a dessert that feels like a warm embrace, whether shared with family after Sunday dinner or presented as the star of a holiday feast.

But what if you could take that timeless flavor and add a new dimension of sweetness and elegance? Enter White Chocolate Tiramisu — my personal twist on the classic. Instead of the traditional bitter cocoa, this version uses creamy, melted white chocolate that blends into the mascarpone filling and grates beautifully on top for a snowy finish. The result? A dessert that is smoother, lighter in flavor, and irresistibly luxurious.

I first served this at a holiday dinner party, and it disappeared before the espresso cups even hit the table. Guests loved how the richness of white chocolate balanced perfectly with the soft ladyfingers, while still keeping that signature tiramisu texture. Whether it’s for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or a summer gathering with fresh berries, White Chocolate Tiramisu is a showstopper that never fails to impress.

And if, like me, you can’t resist experimenting with new tiramisu flavors, you’ll love diving into our guide on Tiramisu Variations – 25 Modern Recipes You Need to Try, where endless inspiration awaits.

Close-up of White Chocolate Tiramisu layers.
Detailed view of the creamy layers of White Chocolate Tiramisu.

What is White Chocolate Tiramisu?

White Chocolate Tiramisu is a modern variation of the Italian classic where the bitter cocoa topping is replaced with melted or grated white chocolate. The result is a creamier, sweeter dessert with layers of espresso-dipped ladyfingers and mascarpone filling infused with white chocolate. It keeps the same luxurious texture of traditional tiramisu but introduces a delicate flavor that feels festive and elegant.
For more unique adaptations, see our list of Tiramisu Variations – 25 Modern Recipes You Need to Try.

What ingredients do I need for White Chocolate Tiramisu?

To prepare a white chocolate tiramisu recipe, you’ll need:
Mascarpone cheese (the creamy base)
White baking chocolate (melted and cooled)
Heavy whipping cream
Ladyfingers (savoiardi)
Freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee
Vanilla extract
Powdered sugar
Optional additions include fresh berries or a splash of liqueur such as Kahlua.
👉 Love no-bake desserts? Try this quick version: No-Bake Tiramisu Cake.

How do you make White Chocolate Tiramisu step by step?

Here’s how to assemble this luscious dessert:
Prepare the cream – Whip mascarpone, melted white chocolate, cream, sugar, and vanilla until fluffy.
Soak the ladyfingers – Dip them quickly into cooled espresso (avoid oversoaking).
Layer – Alternate espresso-soaked ladyfingers with the white chocolate mascarpone mixture.
Top – Sprinkle with grated white chocolate for a snowy finish.
Chill – Refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours before serving.
This method creates a dessert similar in structure to a white chocolate tiramisu cake, but softer and creamier.
👉 If you prefer portion-sized servings, check out Tiramisu Cupcakes.

Can I make Strawberry White Chocolate Tiramisu?

Yes! A strawberry white chocolate tiramisu (also called white chocolate–strawberry tiramisu) is a perfect fruity variation. Simply layer fresh sliced strawberries between the mascarpone filling and ladyfingers. The sweetness of the berries pairs beautifully with the creaminess of white chocolate, creating a lighter and refreshing dessert.
👉 For another fruity twist, try Mango Tiramisu, which offers tropical notes.

How about a White Chocolate Raspberry Tiramisu?

A white chocolate raspberry tiramisu blends the tartness of raspberries with the sweetness of white chocolate. To make it, prepare a raspberry syrup and soak your ladyfingers before layering with the mascarpone mixture. Top with grated white chocolate for a festive finish.
This variation is often referred to as white chocolate raspberry tiramisu recipe and is a great choice for Valentine’s Day or any romantic dinner.
👉 You can also try a berry-rich version like our Raspberry Tiramisu.

Can I make White Chocolate Tiramisu without alcohol?

Absolutely! Many traditional tiramisu recipes use Marsala wine or coffee liqueur, but for this White Chocolate Tiramisu, you can easily skip the alcohol without losing flavor. Just soak the ladyfingers in a mix of strong espresso and a touch of vanilla extract. If you prefer a fruity note, orange juice or raspberry syrup works beautifully — a tip I often use when preparing a lighter version for family gatherings. For more non-alcoholic inspiration, check out our Mango Tiramisu, which pairs tropical sweetness with the creamy texture of mascarpone.

What fruits pair best with White Chocolate Tiramisu?

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The mild sweetness of white chocolate makes this tiramisu a perfect canvas for fresh fruits. Strawberries and raspberries are the most popular pairings, creating vibrant layers and balancing the richness of the cream. For a unique twist, try blueberries or even tropical fruits like mango. Personally, I love making a strawberry and white chocolate tiramisu during summer — it feels refreshing yet indulgent. You can also explore other fruity tiramisu ideas in our Mixed Berry Tiramisu guide.

Can I prepare White Chocolate Tiramisu ahead of time?

Yes, and you absolutely should! Like classic tiramisu, this dessert tastes even better after resting in the fridge for several hours, as the flavors meld together. I recommend making it at least 6 hours before serving, or even overnight for the best results. The creamy mascarpone mixture firms up, while the ladyfingers soften just enough to create that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. For other great make-ahead desserts, check out our No-Bake Tiramisu Cake — it’s another crowd-pleaser that benefits from chilling time.

Can I make White Chocolate Tiramisu gluten-free?

Definitely! To prepare a gluten-free white chocolate tiramisu recipe, simply swap the traditional ladyfingers with a certified gluten-free version (many bakeries and stores now carry them). The rest of the ingredients — mascarpone, cream, and white chocolate — are naturally gluten-free. When I serve this version, even those without dietary restrictions can’t taste the difference. Another gluten-free option you might love is our creamy Tiramisu Chia Pudding.

What drinks pair well with White Chocolate Tiramisu?

The delicate sweetness of white chocolate pairs beautifully with both coffee and dessert wines. A cappuccino or an espresso makes a classic choice, enhancing the tiramisu’s Italian roots. For a more festive pairing, try a glass of Moscato d’Asti or Prosecco — their light bubbles complement the creamy mascarpone layers perfectly. When I host dinner parties, I often serve this dessert with a Tiramisu Martini for a fun, indulgent finish.

Can I add flavors like cinnamon or matcha to White Chocolate Tiramisu?

Absolutely! White chocolate is a versatile base that pairs well with spices and teas. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth, making it ideal for a Christmas version. For something more modern, try a matcha white chocolate tiramisu — the earthy green tea balances the sweetness of the chocolate beautifully. One of my favorite experiments was combining pistachios and raspberries for a nutty, fruity twist. For other creative ideas, explore our Ube Tiramisu, where unique flavors shine in new ways.

Print
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Slice of White Chocolate Tiramisu with berries and shaved chocolate.

White Chocolate Tiramisu – A Creamy Twist on the Classic Italian Dessert

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This White Chocolate Tiramisu is a festive twist on the Italian classic, blending mascarpone, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and smooth white chocolate.

  • Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

4 extra-large egg yolks

3/4 cup caster sugar

150 g white chocolate, melted

1 tsp ground cinnamon

500 g mascarpone cheese

400 g ladyfinger cookies

1 cup espresso

2 tbsp Marsala wine (optional)

3 tbsp cocoa powder

Fresh strawberries or raspberries for garnish

Instructions

1. Whip egg yolks and sugar until fluffy. Add cooled melted white chocolate and cinnamon.

2. Fold in mascarpone cheese until mixture is smooth and thick.

3. Dip ladyfingers in espresso (and Marsala if using). Layer them in a dish.

4. Spread mascarpone mixture over ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer.

5. Dust with cocoa powder and refrigerate at least 6 hours or overnight.

6. Serve chilled with berries and shaved white chocolate.

Notes

For a kid-friendly version, omit the Marsala wine.

Use high-quality white chocolate (at least 30% cocoa butter).

Can be made a day ahead for better flavor.

Decorate with edible flowers or mint for presentation.

  • Author: Tiramisu Cake
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 45mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

Conclusion

The beauty of White Chocolate Tiramisu lies in its ability to transform a classic Italian dessert into something both familiar and surprising. By replacing the traditional cocoa finish with smooth, creamy white chocolate, you get a dessert that feels lighter, more festive, and endlessly versatile. Whether paired with strawberries in the summer, raspberries for Valentine’s Day, or a touch of cinnamon at Christmas, this tiramisu adapts to every season and occasion.

For safe handling, chilling, and make-ahead storage, consult USDA Food Safety. And for technique deep dives and evidence-based tips on mascarpone, espresso, and layering (we love E-E-A-T here!), explore Serious Eats. If you want more ideas, browse our master guide Tiramisu Variations – 25 Modern Recipes You Need to Try for endless inspiration.

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