Decadent Chocolate Tiramisu: A Luxurious Twist on the Classic Italian Dessert

Written by Sarah Gardner

Tiramisu is already a show-stopping dessert, but when you add chocolate into the mix, it becomes absolutely irresistible. This Chocolate Tiramisu Recipe takes the traditional mascarpone-laced delight and elevates it with layers of rich cocoa and velvety chocolate ganache. Perfect for chocolate lovers and fans of the classic tiramisu recipe alike, this homemade tiramisu is the ultimate indulgence.

Chocolate Tiramisu

Prep Time 30 minutes
Chill Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • saucepan
  • Baking Dish 9x9-inch
  • Sifter or fine-mesh sieve
  • Offset spatula or spoon

Ingredients
  

For the Chocolate Ganache

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 oz dark chocolate finely chopped

For the Mascarpone Filling

  • 8 oz mascarpone cheese room temperature
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 2 oz dark chocolate melted

For the Coffee-Soaked Ladyfingers

  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee cooled
  • 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur optional
  • 24 ladyfingers Savoiardi biscuits

For Assembly and Topping

  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 oz dark chocolate shaved

Instructions
 

Prepare the Ganache

  1. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped dark chocolate. Let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.

Make the Mascarpone Filling

  1. In a mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and melted dark chocolate until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks, then gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture.

Soak the Ladyfingers

  1. Mix the brewed coffee and coffee liqueur in a shallow dish. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the mixture for about 1 second per side (do not oversoak).

Assemble the Layers

  1. Spread a thin layer of chocolate ganache at the bottom of your baking dish. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers over the ganache. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, followed by another layer of chocolate ganache. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers, the remaining mascarpone mixture, and a final dusting of cocoa powder.

Chill and Serve

  1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight). Before serving, sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings.

Pairings

This Chocolate Tiramisu pairs beautifully with an espresso or a glass of dessert wine like Vin Santo. If you’re looking for more tiramisu ideas, try serving it with a scoop of vanilla gelato or a drizzle of hazelnut liqueur.

FAQs

1. What’s the best tiramisu recipe variation for chocolate lovers?

This chocolate tiramisu recipe is the perfect choice, as it enhances the classic flavors with rich ganache and cocoa powder.

2. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but dark chocolate provides a more balanced contrast to the sweetness of the mascarpone and ladyfingers.

3. How long does homemade tiramisu last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 3 days when covered and refrigerated.

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