Get ready to treat your taste buds to pure bliss with this Tiramisu Dream Mousse, a no-bake Italian-inspired dessert that’s as airy as a cloud and irresistibly decadent. Imagine layers of creamy mascarpone, coffee-kissed mousse, and a hint of chocolate all coming together in a single spoonful—pure magic! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just in the mood for something special, this easy recipe captures all the classic flavors of tiramisu in a dreamy, spoonable form. It’s the kind of dessert you’ll want to make over and over again, and trust me, your friends and family will beg for the recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk ingredients! Each one plays a starring role in achieving that signature Tiramisu Dream Mousse flavor and texture. They’re simple, but together they create a dessert that’s nothing short of spectacular.
- Heavy cream, chilled: Whipped cream gives the mousse its light, fluffy body—make sure it’s nice and cold for the best volume.
- Mascarpone cheese, softened: This creamy Italian cheese lends that unmistakable richness and tang to the mousse.
- Powdered sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness, dissolving effortlessly for a silky finish.
- Strong brewed espresso, cooled: Deep coffee flavor is the heart of tiramisu—use a robust espresso for bold taste.
- Coffee liqueur (optional): For an extra grown-up kick, a splash of liqueur enhances the coffee notes beautifully.
- Vanilla extract: A dash of vanilla rounds out the flavors with cozy warmth.
- Crushed ladyfingers: These bring a gentle crunch and soak up the mousse for authentic tiramisu texture.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting: Finish with a generous dusting on top for that classic tiramisu look and a touch of bitterness.
- Dark chocolate shavings, for garnish: Adds elegance and a burst of chocolate with every bite.
How to Make Tiramisu Dream Mousse
Step 1: Whip the Cream
Start by pouring your chilled heavy cream into a mixing bowl (a cold bowl helps the cream whip faster and fluffier!). Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the cream until soft peaks form. You want it to look pillowy and hold its shape, but not too stiff. This will give your Tiramisu Dream Mousse that signature lightness.
Step 2: Mix the Mascarpone Base
In a separate bowl, combine the softened mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, cooled espresso, coffee liqueur (if you’re using it), and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed! This is where the flavor magic happens, blending creamy richness with notes of coffee and vanilla.
Step 3: Fold It All Together
Next, gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture. Use a spatula and a light hand—think sweeping, gentle motions—to keep as much air in the mousse as possible. The result is a silky, airy mousse that’s absolutely irresistible.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Spoon a layer of mousse into your serving glasses or bowls. Sprinkle a handful of crushed ladyfingers over the mousse, then top with another layer of mousse. You can repeat the layers if your glasses are tall or if you just want extra decadence! The ladyfingers add a lovely soft crunch and soak up that luscious mousse.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Cover your assembled Tiramisu Dream Mousse and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This lets the flavors meld and the texture set up perfectly. If you have time, chilling overnight works wonders for even deeper flavor!
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Right before serving, dust the tops generously with unsweetened cocoa powder and scatter on some dark chocolate shavings. The result? A dessert that looks as amazing as it tastes—totally worthy of your next celebration (or simply a Tuesday night treat).
How to Serve Tiramisu Dream Mousse
Garnishes
The finishing touches make all the difference! A dramatic dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder is essential for that classic tiramisu look, and dark chocolate shavings give each serving a touch of elegance and a satisfying bite. For an extra flourish, add a few chocolate-covered espresso beans or a sprig of fresh mint.
Side Dishes
While Tiramisu Dream Mousse truly shines on its own, pairing it with fresh berries or a crisp biscotti on the side can add a lovely contrast of flavors and textures. If you’re serving it after a rich meal, a small espresso or cup of herbal tea makes a perfect companion.
Creative Ways to Present
Show off your mousse by layering it in pretty wine glasses, elegant coupe bowls, or even a trifle dish for a stunning centerpiece. For parties, try serving mini versions in shot glasses for a fun, bite-sized treat. You can also go rustic and use small mason jars—adorable and portable!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply cover the Tiramisu Dream Mousse tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and dreamy for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits!
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the mousse! Portion it into airtight, freezer-safe containers and store for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. The texture will be slightly firmer, almost like a semifreddo—delightful in its own way.
Reheating
No reheating needed for this no-bake dessert! If your mousse has been in the freezer, just allow it to thaw gently in the fridge until creamy and spoonable. Serve chilled straight from the refrigerator for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I make Tiramisu Dream Mousse without coffee liqueur?
Absolutely! Simply skip the coffee liqueur for a delicious, family-friendly version. The espresso alone gives plenty of rich coffee flavor, so you won’t miss out on that essential tiramisu taste.
What’s the best way to crush ladyfingers?
Place the ladyfingers in a zip-top bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or your hands. You want a mix of small pieces and fine crumbs—this gives a lovely variety of texture in each bite of Tiramisu Dream Mousse.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! Tiramisu Dream Mousse is actually even better when made in advance. Assemble it a day before you plan to serve, cover, and chill. The flavors will deepen and the texture will set to perfection.
Is there a substitute for mascarpone cheese?
If you can’t find mascarpone, you can use softened cream cheese blended with a little heavy cream for a similar texture, but the flavor won’t be quite as authentic. Mascarpone really is the heart of this mousse!
How do I make individual servings look extra special?
Use clear glasses or jars to show off those gorgeous layers, and don’t forget the dramatic cocoa powder dusting and chocolate shavings on top. For a special touch, finish each glass with a chocolate-covered coffee bean or a tiny swirl of whipped cream.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that’s both impressive and effortless, Tiramisu Dream Mousse is your new go-to. Every bite is a celebration of creamy, coffee-kissed perfection, and it’s so easy to make ahead for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it—one spoonful and you’ll be hooked!
Print
Tiramisu Dream Mousse Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tiramisu Dream Mousse is a luscious and creamy no-bake dessert inspired by classic Italian tiramisu. It combines whipped heavy cream and mascarpone cheese with rich espresso and a hint of coffee liqueur for a perfect balance of flavors. Layered with crushed ladyfingers and garnished with cocoa powder and chocolate shavings, this mousse offers an elegant, easy-to-make treat ideal for entertaining or a special indulgence.
Ingredients
Mousse Base
- 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons strong brewed espresso, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Layers and Garnish
- 1/2 cup crushed ladyfingers
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings, for garnish
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form, providing a light and airy base to fold into the mascarpone mixture.
- Prepare the Mascarpone Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the softened mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, cooled espresso, coffee liqueur (if using), and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, taking care to maintain the airiness, until fully combined and light in texture.
- Layer the Mousse: Spoon a layer of the mousse into serving glasses or a trifle dish, then sprinkle evenly with crushed ladyfingers to add texture and a classic tiramisu flavor.
- Repeat Layers: Add another layer of mousse on top of the ladyfingers and repeat layering if desired to fill the serving dishes attractively.
- Chill to Set: Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the mousse to set and meld the flavors beautifully.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Omit the coffee liqueur for a non-alcoholic version suitable for all ages.
- This mousse can be prepared a day ahead and chilled overnight to deepen the flavors.
- Serve in individual glasses for a sophisticated presentation or layer in a large trifle dish for a striking centerpiece.
- Ensure the heavy cream is well chilled for better whipping results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
