Love the rich, creamy flavors of tiramisu? Now, you can enjoy it in latte form.
The tiramisu latte blends the classic Italian dessert with your favorite coffeehouse drink.
It’s indulgent yet easy to make at home.
Whether you prefer it hot, iced, or even alcohol-free, this versatile drink is a treat for any occasion.
Ready to create your own?
Here are a few simple steps to make this irresistible latte.
How To Make A Tiramisu Latte: At A Glance
- Brew the Espresso
- Prepare the Mascarpone Cream Mixture
- Froth the Milk
- Assemble the Tiramisu Latte
- Add a pinch of Cocoa Powder and enjoy!
What is a Tiramisu Latte?
A tiramisu latte is a coffee-based drink that captures the essence of the beloved Italian dessert, tiramisu.
It combines the strong, bold flavors of espresso with the creamy, sweet notes of mascarpone cheese.
The drink is layered with cocoa powder and vanilla to mimic the dessert’s distinct chocolate and vanilla tones.
The latte’s texture is rich and velvety, thanks to the mascarpone cream, which adds a luxurious creaminess.
At the same time, the cocoa powder and espresso introduce a slight bitterness, perfectly balancing the sweetness.
With every sip, the tiramisu latte offers a deliciously creamy, sweet, and slightly bitter flavor, making it a delightful treat for any coffee lover.
Ingredients Overview
Espresso
Use a double-shot of espresso (about 2 oz).
This is the strong, bold base that defines the tiramisu latte.
Alternatively, you can use 2 tsp of espresso powder mixed with 2 tablespoons of hot water.
Mascarpone Cheese
1 tablespoon of mascarpone cheese is enough to add a rich, creamy texture that mimics the dessert’s classic cream layer.
This ingredient brings a velvety mouthfeel and luxurious quality to the latte.
Milk
Use 1 cup (8 oz) of whole milk for the best creaminess.
For a dairy-free option, substitute with oat milk or almond milk, which still provide a smooth texture while keeping the drink light.
Cocoa Powder
1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder gives the latte its distinct chocolate flavor, adding a slight bitterness to balance the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Vanilla Extract
½ teaspoon of vanilla extract adds a subtle sweetness and deepens the overall flavor of the latte.
Optional Ingredients
- Amaretto or rum extract: Add ½ to 1 teaspoon for a boozy twist that complements the coffee and chocolate notes.
- Sugar or sugar substitutes: Adjust to taste, typically 1 to 2 teaspoons, depending on how sweet you prefer your latte.
How to Make the Perfect Tiramisu Latte
Making a tiramisu latte at home is simple with a few key steps.
Whether you prefer it hot or iced, follow this guide for a delicious drink that mirrors the flavors of the classic dessert.
1. Brew the Espresso
Start by brewing a double shot of espresso (about 2 oz) or use 2 tsp of espresso powder mixed with hot water.
This forms the strong, bold base of the latte.
If you don’t have an espresso machine, espresso powder works well as a substitute.
2. Prepare the Mascarpone Cream Mixture
In a small bowl, blend together the mascarpone cream.
Mix 1 tablespoon of mascarpone cheese with 2 tablespoons of heavy cream, 2 teaspoons of powdered sugar, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Use a whisk or an electric mixer to whip the mixture until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
3. Froth the Milk
In a small saucepan or using a milk frother, heat and froth 1 cup of milk.
Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder and 1 to 2 teaspoons of sugar (or sweetener).
Stir until everything is dissolved and the milk becomes light and frothy.
Frothing the milk helps blend the flavors and creates that signature latte texture.
4. Assemble the Tiramisu Latte
Once the espresso is ready, pour it into your serving mug.
Then, carefully pour the frothy cocoa-flavored milk over the espresso, leaving room for the mascarpone cream.
Spoon the whipped mascarpone cream mixture over the top, creating a creamy layer.
Finish by dusting the drink with a pinch of cocoa powder for that final tiramisu touch.
Tips for the Best Froth and Texture
- Use soft mascarpone: If the mascarpone is too firm, microwave it for 5-10 seconds to soften it before blending with the cream. This will give you a smoother and more blendable consistency.
- Froth at the right temperature: Avoid boiling the milk. Heat it until it’s steaming, but not scalding, for the best froth and flavor.
- Serve immediately: For the best texture and taste, serve the tiramisu latte right after preparation. The mascarpone cream is at its peak when fresh and airy.
Variations of Tiramisu Latte
There are several ways to customize a tiramisu latte to suit different tastes and preferences.
Here are a few popular variations that you can easily make at home.
Iced Tiramisu Latte
If you prefer your latte cold, an iced tiramisu latte is a refreshing twist.
Start by using cold brew or chilled espresso as the base.
Add a few ice cubes to your glass, then pour in cold milk.
Finally, top the drink with the mascarpone cream mixture for the same creamy texture as the hot version.
Don’t forget to dust with cocoa powder for the finishing touch.
This version is perfect for warm days when you still want the indulgence of tiramisu in a lighter, more cooling form.
Dairy-Free Tiramisu Latte
For a dairy-free option, substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or soy milk.
These plant-based alternatives still provide a creamy texture, though slightly lighter than traditional milk.
As for the mascarpone, finding a good non-dairy substitute can be challenging.
While there are plant-based mascarpone alternatives available, they may not capture the same richness as dairy mascarpone.
If that’s not a concern, you can proceed with a non-dairy mascarpone substitute and still enjoy the overall flavor and creaminess of the drink.
Sugar-Free Tiramisu Latte
If you’re looking to reduce the sugar content, a sugar-free tiramisu latte is easy to make.
Simply omit the sugar from both the milk mixture and the mascarpone cream.
You can also use sugar alternatives like stevia or monk fruit sweeteners.
Alcoholic Tiramisu Latte
For a fun, adult version of this drink, you can add a splash of Kahlua, Amaretto, or rum.
This boozy twist pairs perfectly with the strong espresso and creamy mascarpone.
Typically, 1 to 2 teaspoons of the liquor of your choice will give the latte that classic tiramisu flavor with a little extra kick.
Just be sure to adjust the sweetness if needed, as these liqueurs can add both flavor and sweetness to the drink.
Toppings and Garnishes
Toppings can enhance the presentation and flavor of a tiramisu latte, adding both visual appeal and texture.
A dusting of cocoa powder is the most traditional topping, echoing the chocolate notes in the classic tiramisu dessert.
For added richness, you can also use chocolate shavings on top, giving the drink an indulgent feel.
If you want to stay true to the tiramisu theme, consider adding a ladyfinger biscuit on the side.
This not only complements the latte but also adds a bit of texture, making the drink feel more like a dessert.
For an alternative twist, you can sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg over the top of the mascarpone cream.
These warm spices provide a seasonal flavor that pairs beautifully with the coffee and chocolate base.
It’s a simple way to switch up the taste while keeping the latte festive, especially during the colder months.
Serving Suggestions
A tiramisu latte is an indulgent treat that works well for a variety of occasions.
It’s perfect for brunches, where its rich flavors can complement both sweet and savory dishes.
Serve it alongside light pastries, biscotti, or ladyfingers to enhance the coffee’s dessert-like qualities.
These crunchy textures balance out the creaminess of the latte and provide a satisfying contrast.
For a cozy evening, a tiramisu latte makes an excellent companion to a good book or movie.
Its comforting blend of coffee, cocoa, and mascarpone is ideal for unwinding.
If you’re hosting guests, this drink is sure to impress when served as a dessert coffee.
Pair it with chocolate croissants, butter cookies, or even a slice of tiramisu itself for a fully themed experience.
Conclusion
The tiramisu latte is a simple yet versatile drink that you can easily make at home.
Whether you prefer it hot, iced, dairy-free, or with a splash of alcohol, it’s a delicious treat for any time of day.
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to make it your own.
We’d love to hear how yours turns out—drop a comment below with your favorite variation or share your creation on social media!
FAQ’s
Can you make a tiramisu latte without an espresso machine?
Yes, you can!
If you don’t have an espresso machine, simply use espresso powder.
Mix 2 teaspoons of espresso powder with 2 tablespoons of hot water to create a double shot of espresso.
How long can you store leftover mascarpone cream?
Leftover mascarpone cream can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Before using it again, give the cream a quick whisk or shake to restore its smooth, airy texture.
How to make a decaf version?
To make a decaf tiramisu latte, simply use decaffeinated espresso or decaf coffee in place of regular espresso.
Follow the same steps in the recipe, and you’ll have all the flavor without the caffeine.
Can you substitute other ingredients (like cream cheese for mascarpone)?
Yes, you can substitute cream cheese for mascarpone, but keep in mind that it will change the flavor and texture slightly.
Cream cheese is denser and tangier than mascarpone, so the result will be a bit heavier.
However, it can still work if mascarpone is not available.
