Name: Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: 5 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 eggs; 1/2 cup sugar; 2 cups mascarpone cheese; 1 tbsp gingerbread spice mix; 1 tbsp molasses (optional); 1 cup whipping cream (divided into 1/2 cup and 1/2 cup); 24 ladyfinger biscuits (Savoiardi cookies); 2 cups espresso (for dipping biscuits); 2 tbsp powdered sugar; 2 tbsp powdered cocoa powder (for garnish); Gingerbread cookies for garnish

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Introduction

Gingerbread Tiramisu is a festive twist on the classic Italian dessert, perfectly blending warm spices with creamy mascarpone and bold espresso. This easy-to-make treat is ideal for holiday gatherings or any time you crave a comforting, flavorful dessert.

The image shows a square layered dessert on a white marbled surface, with a slice taken out to reveal three layers: a light brown creamy layer, a middle layer with small dark bits, and a thin cake-like bottom layer. The top is decorated with many small, dark brown dollops of cream, dusted lightly with powdered sugar. Three gingerbread cookies with white icing details stand upright on the dessert, adding a festive touch. The background includes a glimpse of red fabric with white snowflake patterns. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 eggs
2 cups Mascarpone cheese
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup whipping cream
1 tbsp gingerbread spice mix
1 tbsp molasses (optional)
24 ladyfinger biscuits (Savoiardi cookies)
2 cups espresso (for dipping biscuits)
2 tbsp powdered sugar
2 tbsp powdered cocoa powder (for garnish)
Gingerbread cookies for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium glass bowl, combine the eggs and sugar. Place the bowl over barely simmering water and whisk gently using the bain-marie technique until the sugar dissolves. Be careful not to let the mixture get too hot; remove from heat if necessary.
Step 2: Remove the bowl from the heat and continue whisking with an electric mixer until the mixture thickens and becomes pale, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add molasses (if using), gingerbread spice mix, and mascarpone cheese to the mixture. Whisk until smooth.
Step 4: In a separate small bowl, whisk 1/2 cup of the whipping cream until soft peaks form.
Step 5: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture using a spatula. Avoid over mixing to keep it light and airy.
Step 6: Spread a thin layer of the mascarpone mixture at the bottom of an 8 x 8 inch (20 x 20 cm) pan.
Step 7: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso for about 2 seconds and place them rounded side up in a single layer over the mascarpone.
Step 8: Spread half of the remaining mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers.
Step 9: Repeat the dipping and layering process with the remaining ladyfingers and mascarpone mixture.
Step 10: Whisk the remaining 1/2 cup of cold whipping cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
Step 11: Pipe or spread the whipped cream over the top of the tiramisu. Garnish with gingerbread cookies.
Step 12: Refrigerate for at least 5 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld.
Step 13: Just before serving, dust the top lightly with cocoa powder.

Tips & Variations

If you don’t have gingerbread spice mix, use a combination of ground cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg.
For a boozy version, add a splash of rum or brandy to the espresso for dipping the ladyfingers.
Use freshly brewed espresso for the best flavor, but strong coffee works well too.
Garnish with crushed gingerbread cookies for added texture and spice.

Storage

Store the tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled to maintain its texture and flavor. When ready to serve, you can let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes for a softer texture. Do not freeze, as it may alter the cream’s consistency.

How to Serve

The image shows a round layered cake with a slice taken out, exposing three layers of light brown cake separated by creamy filling. The top is covered with alternating dollops of dark brown and white cream in a neat pattern. Three gingerbread cookies decorated with white icing are placed on top, one standing upright in the back and two leaning on the side. The cake is dusted lightly with powdered sugar. It sits on a white plate with a white marbled surface in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make gingerbread tiramisu ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best to prepare this dessert at least 5 hours in advance, though overnight chilling enhances the flavors and texture perfectly.

Can I substitute ladyfingers with another cookie?

While traditional tiramisu uses ladyfingers for their light texture, you can experiment with sponge cake or gingerbread cookies to complement the spice flavors, but soaking times may need adjusting.