Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I lifted the lid off my mixing bowl, a gentle wave of bergamot and coffee filled the air, instantly bringing warmth to my kitchen. This is exactly the aromatic moment I chase when making my Earl Grey Tiramisu—a beautifully sophisticated twist on the beloved Italian classic. It’s a dessert that not only impresses guests but also puts comfort front and center with each creamy, tea-infused layer. The best part? It comes together effortlessly, making it a perfect choice for special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to indulge in something uplifting, this elegant treat offers a delightful experience that feels just right. Curious about how to elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive into this enchanting recipe! Why is Earl Grey Tiramisu so special? Elevated Flavor: This dessert transforms a classic with delicate notes of bergamot, creating a sophisticated twist that surprises the palate. Easy to Customise: You can easily swap different teas or add zesty flavors, making it versatile for every occasion. Impressive Presentation: Layer in your favorite glassware for a stunning visual that will wow your guests. Perfect for Gatherings: It’s ideal for dinner parties, striking a balance between comfort and elegance. Plus, if you’re craving more unique dessert ideas, check out my Raspberry Tiramisu Bake for another delightful treat! Earl Grey Tiramisu Ingredients For the Cream Layer Mascarpone Cheese – Offers a rich and creamy texture; for a lighter option, use ricotta instead. Heavy Cream – Provides fluffiness and stability; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Sugar – Sweetens the mixture; consider a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie version. For the Infusion Earl Grey Tea – Infuses the dessert with floral notes; choose loose-leaf or bagged tea, adjusting steep time for strength. Coffee – Soaks the ladyfingers for depth; espresso delivers a stronger flavor, but brewed coffee works well too. For the Structure Ladyfingers – Acts as the base layer providing structure; if unavailable, homemade sponge cake can serve as a substitute. For the Finishing Touch Cocoa Powder – Dusts the top for an elegant presentation; opt for unsweetened cocoa for an authentic taste. This Earl Grey Tiramisu brings sophistication to your dessert table that is sure to impress! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Earl Grey Tiramisu Step 1: Prepare Tea Begin by boiling water and steeping 2 tablespoons of Earl Grey tea in it for about 5 minutes. Once the tea is brewed to a fragrant depth, remove the tea leaves or bags and let the tea cool to room temperature. This infusion will yield the floral notes crucial to the Earl Grey Tiramisu. Step 2: Whip Cream In a chilled mixing bowl, pour 1 cup of heavy cream and use an electric mixer to whip it on medium speed. Continue whipping until soft peaks form, which should take around 3-5 minutes. The whipped cream should be light and fluffy, adding an airy texture to the mascarpone mixture in the Earl Grey Tiramisu. Step 3: Combine Mixtures In another bowl, blend 1 cup of mascarpone cheese with 1/2 cup of sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped cream using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the cream. This blended mixture should be light and luscious, forming the creamy layer that elevates the Earl Grey Tiramisu. Step 4: Coffee Mixture Prepare a shallow dish for soaking the ladyfingers by combining 1 cup of brewed coffee with the cooled Earl Grey tea. Stir well to mix the flavors together and allow the mixture to sit for a minute. This aromatic dip is vital for soaking the ladyfingers, providing depth and richness to each layer of your Earl Grey Tiramisu. Step 5: Soak Ladyfingers Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee-tea mixture, ensuring they are soaked through but not soggy—about 1-2 seconds per side should suffice. As you work, layer the soaked ladyfingers in a serving dish. This careful soaking adds the essential flavor, creating a delectable foundation for your Earl Grey Tiramisu. Step 6: Layer Start layering your Earl Grey Tiramisu by placing a layer of the soaked ladyfingers on the bottom of your serving dish. Spoon half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, spreading it evenly. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers followed by the remaining mascarpone mixture, building a beautiful structure with each layer. Step 7: Chill Cover the assembled tiramisu with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This chilling process allows the flavors to meld and the layers to set, ensuring a delightful texture and rich taste in your Earl Grey Tiramisu. Step 8: Serve Before serving, dust the top of the chilled Earl Grey Tiramisu generously with unsweetened cocoa powder for an elegant touch. Cut into squares or use a spoon to serve in individual portions. The beautifully layered dessert can now bring joy to your table, with every creamy, tea-infused bite. Make Ahead Options Earl Grey Tiramisu is an excellent recipe for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal planning! You can prepare the mascarpone cream mixture and soak the ladyfingers up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. To do this, simply make the cream layer and assemble the soaked ladyfingers in their serving dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, allow it to chill for at least 4 hours (or ideally overnight). Just before serving, dust with cocoa powder for a delightful finishing touch. This way, you enjoy the rich flavors without the last-minute rush! Earl Grey Tiramisu Variations Feel free to unleash your creativity and adapt this recipe to suit your taste buds while keeping that delightful essence of Earl Grey Tiramisu. Matcha Twist: Substitute Earl Grey with matcha powder for a refreshing green tea version. The vibrant color and unique flavor provide a sophisticated spin! Citrus Zing: Add zest of one orange to the mascarpone mixture for a bright, citrusy lift. This will brighten up each creamy layer and introduce a fresh burst of flavor. Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a splash of Amaretto or hazelnut liqueur in the coffee soak for a nutty depth that complements the tea beautifully. This subtle touch will elevate the sophistication of your dessert. Fruity Layer: Include a layer of fruit puree, such as raspberry or strawberry, between the cream layers for added freshness. This pop of color and flavor will make each bite even more delightful! Chocolate Indulgence: Mix in cacao nibs or chocolate shavings with the mascarpone for a delightful crunch. The rich chocolate flavor pairs perfectly with the tea-infused layers. Dairy-Free Delight: Swap mascarpone cheese for silken tofu blended until smooth and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. This creates an equally creamy texture without the dairy! Decaf Option: Use decaffeinated coffee along with the Earl Grey tea if you’re concerned about caffeine. You can still indulge in the deliciousness without the jitters! Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of ground cardamom or a pinch of cinnamon to the coffee mixture for a warm, spiced flavor profile. This addition harmonizes beautifully with the bergamot notes. These ideas will take your Earl Grey Tiramisu experience to a new level of flavor and adventure! And if you’re looking for more exciting dessert inspirations, don’t forget to check out my Raspberry Tiramisu Bake for an equally enchanting treat! What to Serve with Earl Grey Tiramisu Pairing this delightful dessert with complementary flavors can enhance your overall dining experience, creating a memorable occasion. Fresh Berries: Add a burst of freshness with strawberries or raspberries that contrast beautifully with the creamy layers. The tartness cuts through the richness, making each bite refreshing. Coffee or Espresso: A side of freshly brewed coffee enhances the dessert’s coffee notes. The aromatic warmth perfectly pairs with each luxurious spoonful of tiramisu. Silky Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the tiramisu introduces a rich, decadent element. Its smooth texture mingles deliciously with the tea-infused flavors. Whipped Cream: A dollop of softly whipped cream adds extra fluffiness and a creamy finish to the dessert. It can be flavored with a hint of vanilla for added sophistication. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside brings an indulgent cold contrast that complements the tiramisu’s rich texture. It’s like a party of flavors on your plate! Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly Prosecco enhances the elegance of your dessert, with its effervescence balancing the creamy layers. It’s the perfect toast for special occasions! Chocolate-Covered Almonds: These add a delightful crunch and a hint of nutty flavor, enhancing the textural elements and sweet notes of the tiramisu without overpowering it. Orange Zest: Grate some fresh orange zest over the top before serving for a vibrant pop of citrus that lifts the flavors. It adds a delightful twist that echoes the bergamot notes beautifully. How to Store and Freeze Earl Grey Tiramisu Fridge: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors continue to develop, making each slice a delightful experience. Freezer: While not ideal for freezing, if necessary, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Serving: Always serve chilled. If stored for a few days, dust with fresh cocoa powder just before serving to maintain the presentation. Batch Making: Feel free to prepare the Earl Grey Tiramisu a day ahead—it’s perfect for making in advance! Expert Tips for Earl Grey Tiramisu Quickly Dip Ladyfingers: Avoid sogginess by dipping the ladyfingers into the coffee-tea mixture for just 1-2 seconds per side. Soft Peaks for Whipped Cream: Whip the cream until soft peaks form to ensure a light, airy texture in your Earl Grey Tiramisu. Chill Time is Key: Allow the tiramisu to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor melding and texture. Customize for Your Taste: Experiment with different tea flavors or add zesty elements like orange zest to enhance your Earl Grey Tiramisu. Present Elegantly: Serve in glassware to showcase the beautiful layers, and garnish with chocolate shavings or fresh berries for an extra touch! Earl Grey Tiramisu Recipe FAQs What kind of Earl Grey tea should I use? You can opt for either loose-leaf or bagged Earl Grey tea for your tiramisu. If you prefer a stronger flavor, steep loose-leaf tea for about 5 minutes or adjust the steeping time for bagged tea accordingly. I often use a high-quality loose-leaf variety for its rich fragrance, which enhances the overall experience of the dessert. How should I store Earl Grey Tiramisu? Absolutely! Keep your Earl Grey Tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to deepen, making it even more delightful with each passing day. If making ahead, this dessert is particularly forgiving, as it retains its lovely texture and taste when prepared a day in advance. Can I freeze Earl Grey Tiramisu? While it’s not the best option due to the creamy layers, you can freeze Earl Grey Tiramisu if needed! Ensure you wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best results. What should I do if my ladyfingers are too soggy? The key to perfect ladyfingers is a quick dip! If you’ve soaked them too long, resulting in sogginess, try layering them more carefully next time. Dip each ladyfinger for just 1-2 seconds per side into the coffee-tea mixture. Once layered, if you’ve made it too soggy, try serving it in parfait glasses—this way, everything still looks beautiful! Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies? Great question! This Earl Grey Tiramisu contains dairy and sugar, so it’s not suitable for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. For a dairy-free version, substitute the mascarpone with a dairy-free cream cheese and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Always check ingredients for any specific allergies related to other components, like the ladyfingers. Earl Grey Tiramisu: A Delightfully Elegant Dessert Treat Earl Grey Tiramisu is a sophisticated dessert that combines delicate bergamot flavors with creamy layers, perfect for impressing guests. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsChilling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertsCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cream Layer1 cup Mascarpone Cheese For a lighter option, use ricotta instead.1 cup Heavy Cream Substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.1/2 cup Sugar Consider a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie version.For the Infusion2 tablespoons Earl Grey Tea Choose loose-leaf or bagged tea, adjusting steep time for strength.1 cup Coffee Espresso delivers a stronger flavor.For the Structure24 pieces Ladyfingers If unavailable, homemade sponge cake can serve as a substitute.For the Finishing Touch2 tablespoons Cocoa Powder Opt for unsweetened cocoa for an authentic taste. Equipment Mixing BowlElectric mixerShallow dishspatulaServing Dish Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Earl Grey TiramisuBegin by boiling water and steeping 2 tablespoons of Earl Grey tea in it for about 5 minutes. Let the tea cool to room temperature. In a chilled mixing bowl, pour 1 cup of heavy cream and whip it until soft peaks form, about 3-5 minutes. Blend 1 cup of mascarpone cheese with 1/2 cup of sugar until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream. Prepare a shallow dish with 1 cup of brewed coffee and the cooled Earl Grey tea. Stir well and let sit for a minute. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee-tea mixture for about 1-2 seconds per side and layer them in a dish. Layer soaked ladyfingers in a serving dish followed by half of the mascarpone mixture. Repeat with remaining layers. Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. Before serving, dust with cocoa powder and cut into squares or serve with a spoon. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 5gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesAllow the tiramisu to chill for the best flavor and texture. Customize with different teas or garnishes as desired. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
