Recipe Overview
Why you’ll love it: All the classic flavors of tiramisu in a simple, dippable format. This tiramisu dip comes together in about 10 minutes and is an easy crowd-pleaser for parties and gatherings.
Time: 10 minutes
Equipment: mixing bowl, electric mixer
Servings: 14 (¼ cup each)
Creamy Tiramisu Dip
Like the dessert, only easier. This tiramisu dip captures the creamy, coffee-and-chocolate balance of classic tiramisu in a quick-to-make dip. It’s sweet without being cloying and pairs perfectly with ladyfingers or cookies for dipping.
Key ingredients. The dip uses mascarpone and cream cheese for richness, powdered sugar for sweetness, espresso powder for coffee flavor, and a dusting of cocoa powder on top. Heavy whipping cream gives the dip its light, airy texture.
What Is Tiramisu?
Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert made with coffee-dipped ladyfingers layered with a creamy mix of mascarpone, eggs or cream, and sugar, then finished with a dusting of cocoa powder. The name tiramisu roughly translates to “pick me up,” reflecting the dessert’s coffee flavor and uplifting character.
Serving Ideas
Ladyfingers are the most authentic choice for dipping, but graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or fruit slices also work well. The dip can even be used as a spread—try a small amount on pancakes for a decadent twist.
Ingredient Notes
- Whipping cream (heavy cream): Use chilled whipping or heavy cream (not aerosol whipped topping) so it whips properly.
- Cream cheese: Bring to room temperature so it blends smoothly. Full-fat or Neufchâtel work best; avoid fat-free varieties.
- Mascarpone: An Italian cream cheese with a silkier, richer texture than regular cream cheese. It lends an authentic tiramisu flavor and creaminess.
- Powdered sugar: Half a cup is enough to sweeten the dip without making it overly sweet.
- Espresso powder: A small jar of instant espresso powder adds concentrated coffee flavor; it dissolves easily into the cream before whipping.
- Cocoa powder: Unsweetened cocoa is sifted over the finished dip to mimic traditional tiramisu presentation.
- Vanilla extract: A teaspoon adds warm, rounded flavor.
How To Make Tiramisu Dip
1. Dissolve the espresso. Stir the espresso powder into the chilled heavy cream until fully dissolved and set aside so the flavor can infuse.
2. Blend the cheeses. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the mascarpone and continue beating until velvety and combined.
3. Add sugar and flavor. Mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla on low speed until incorporated.
4. Whip and combine. Pour in the espresso-flavored cream and increase the mixer speed to high. Beat until the mixture forms soft peaks—do not overbeat.
5. Serve. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and dust with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine mesh strainer for an even layer. Serve immediately with your choice of dippers.
Recipe Variation
- Add 1 tablespoon of rum or Kahlúa to the cream mixture for a boozy, extra-flavorful version.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Hold off on dusting with cocoa powder until just before serving so the topping stays fresh and visually appealing.
More Sweet Dips
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Tiramisu Dip Recipe (SO easy!)
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 1 tablespoon espresso powder
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
- ½ cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- ladyfingers, vanilla wafers, or fruit for dipping
Instructions
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Stir the espresso powder into the chilled heavy cream until dissolved; set aside.
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In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the mascarpone and beat until fully combined and silky.
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Add the powdered sugar and vanilla and mix on low speed until incorporated. Pour in the espresso-flavored cream and increase speed to high. Beat until soft peaks form — do not overbeat.
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Spoon the dip into a serving bowl and dust with cocoa powder using a fine mesh strainer. If not serving immediately, cover and refrigerate; add cocoa powder just before serving.
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Serve with ladyfingers, vanilla wafers, or fruit.
Notes
- Nutrition info refers to the dip only and does not include dippers.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- Optional: stir in 1 tablespoon Kahlúa or rum for additional flavor.
Video
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an approximation.
Disclosure: This recipe was developed in partnership with Milk Means More. Opinions are the author’s own.