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Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe

If you’re a fan of cozy holiday flavors and classic desserts, this Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe is about to become your new favorite. I absolutely love how it combines the rich, creamy goodness of tiramisu with the warm spices of gingerbread – it’s like a festive hug in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a holiday party or just because you want a sweet treat, you’ll find it’s surprisingly easy to put together and totally show-stopping.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect Holiday Flavors: The warm spices in the gingerbread and rich eggnog make this tiramisu uniquely festive.
  • No Baking Required: You’ll appreciate how easy it is to assemble without heating up your kitchen.
  • Show-Stopping Dessert: It looks impressive but takes surprisingly little effort, so you can wow your guests stress-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a key role in balancing richness and spice, giving you that perfect creamy and crunchy texture combo. When you shop, look for fresh mascarpone and good-quality gingerbread cookies to really make this pop.

Flat lay of two whole uncracked brown eggs, a small mound of mascarpone cheese on a white ceramic plate, a small white bowl of thick heavy cream, a small white bowl of rich eggnog, a small white bowl filled with hot coffee, a small white bowl containing golden rum extract, a neat stack of round gingerbread cookies, a small white bowl of powdered sugar, a small white bowl of cocoa powder, and a small white bowl with crushed gingerbread cookie crumbs, all arranged in perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Gingerbread Tiramisu, holiday dessert recipes, festive dessert ideas, Christmas tiramisu, easy holiday treats
  • Heavy cream: For whipping into stiff peaks and adding that luscious creaminess to the layers.
  • Egg yolks: They help thicken the mascarpone mixture for that classic tiramisu texture.
  • Powdered sugar: Smoothly sweetens without graininess – crucial for the silky filling.
  • Mascarpone cheese: The heart of tiramisu’s creamy texture; make sure it’s fresh and full-fat.
  • Eggnog: Brings that unmistakable holiday flavor, pairing beautifully with the gingerbread.
  • Gingerbread cookies: These stand in for ladyfingers and add the essential spicy crunch.
  • Coffee: Hot and strong, it softens the cookies while complementing the other flavors.
  • Rum extract: Adds warmth and depth, just like traditional tiramisu but without alcohol.
  • Cocoa powder: For dusting the top and hinting at classic tiramisu elegance.
  • Crushed gingerbread cookies (optional): A crunchy, festive topping to finish it off.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love that this Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe is pretty versatile – I’ve played around with it quite a bit, and you can easily make it your own depending on preferences or what you have on hand.

  • Alcohol-Free Version: Swap the rum extract with vanilla extract for a kid-friendly or alcohol-free dessert that still tastes amazing.
  • Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ground cloves into the mascarpone mixture for even more warm, spicy vibes.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gingerbread cookies to accommodate dietary needs without losing flavor.
  • Mini Tiramisu Cups: I’ve found making this in individual glass jars makes for fun presentation and easy portion control.

How to Make Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe

Step 1: Whip that cream to perfection

Start by whipping your heavy cream with a hand mixer until you see stiff peaks form — you’ll know it’s ready when the cream holds its shape without falling over. Tip: chill your bowl and beaters for a few minutes beforehand to speed up the whipping time and get a fluffier texture.

Step 2: Make the mascarpone mixture

In another bowl, whisk together egg yolks and powdered sugar until the color changes to a pale yellow – this usually takes 3-4 minutes with a mixer. Then, add your mascarpone cheese and beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no clumps. I learned the hard way that mascarpone should be at room temperature for easier mixing, so plan to pull it out ahead of time.

Step 3: Fold the whipped cream in gently

Now pour the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture and fold with a spatula until just combined. Be gentle here — you want to keep the airy texture without deflating the mixture.

Step 4: Prepare your dipping liquid

In a small bowl, combine hot coffee, rum extract, and eggnog. This is what will give your gingerbread cookies that lovely soft texture paired with moist holiday flavors. Make sure the coffee is hot enough to soften the cookies quickly without sogginess.

Step 5: Layer your Gingerbread Tiramisu

Dip each gingerbread cookie quickly into the coffee mixture (don’t soak too long or they’ll fall apart!). Place a layer of about nine cookies in a 9×9 dish. Spread a layer of your tiramisu filling over the cookies evenly, then repeat layers until you reach the top, finishing with the mascarpone cream. I usually get 4-5 layers this way.

Step 6: Top and chill

Use a sifter to dust cocoa powder evenly over the top. For a festive touch, crumble some extra gingerbread cookies on top. Refrigerate the dish for about 90 minutes so all those flavors meld beautifully and you get that signature tiramisu texture.

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Pro Tips for Making Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe

  • Coffee Temperature Matters: I discovered this trick when I realized tepid coffee made the cookies soggy rather than just soft; always use hot coffee and dip quickly.
  • Room Temperature Mascarpone: It blends way easier and prevents lumps in your tiramisu filling.
  • Gentle Folding: Helps keep the filling light and airy, making the dessert more delicate and fluffy.
  • Chill Time Patience: Resist the urge to serve immediately — this one is worth the wait for fully developed flavors and perfect texture.

How to Serve Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe

Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe - Serving

Garnishes

When I serve this, I always dust a bit of cocoa powder and sprinkle crushed gingerbread cookie crumbs on top – it adds that pretty, rustic look and an extra spicy crunch that makes everyone ask for seconds. Sometimes, a small sprig of fresh mint adds a nice color contrast, too!

Side Dishes

This dessert really shines on its own, but I like pairing it with a simple cup of spiced chai or mulled wine to keep the flavors cozy. If you want something lighter, a fresh orange salad with cinnamon makes for a refreshing balance.

Creative Ways to Present

One year I made mini servings in clear mason jars that showed off the beautiful layers – it was such a hit at our holiday brunch! You can also try layering in a trifle bowl for a dramatic centerpiece or even bake this into cupcakes for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I always keep leftovers tightly covered in the fridge. This dessert actually tastes better the next day as the flavors mingle, and it keeps well for up to 3 days without losing its texture.

Freezing

While I don’t usually freeze tiramisu, I’ve done it once wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to a month. Just let it thaw overnight in the fridge before serving – though fresh is definitely best.

Reheating

This dessert is best served chilled, so reheating isn’t typically needed. If you want a warmer version, I recommend letting it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes instead of heating it up, which keeps the creamy layers intact.

FAQs

  1. Can I make this Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe without raw egg yolks?

    Yes! If you’re concerned about raw eggs, you can use pasteurized egg yolks or substitute with a cooked zabaglione (egg yolk and sugar cooked over simmering water) to keep the texture safe and creamy.

  2. What if I can’t find gingerbread cookies?

    Ginger snap cookies or speculoos work beautifully as substitutes. Just pick a firm cookie that can hold up to quick dipping in the coffee mixture without falling apart.

  3. How long should I chill the tiramisu before serving?

    About 90 minutes is perfect for flavor melding and firm texture, but you can chill up to overnight to have it ready for a big occasion.

  4. Can I prepare this dessert a day in advance?

    Absolutely. Making it a day ahead allows the flavors to deepen and makes serving stress-free, which I highly recommend!

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe enough—it feels like a cozy holiday tradition in the making. Every time I serve it, people are surprised at how the classic tiramisu transforms with that zing of gingerbread and eggnog. If you want a dessert that’s easy, festive, and utterly delicious, this is the one to try. Happy baking, friend!

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Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 85 reviews
  • Author: Anna
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

This Easy Gingerbread Tiramisu is a festive twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring layers of gingerbread cookies soaked in a spiced coffee and eggnog mixture, combined with a rich mascarpone and whipped cream filling. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this no-bake tiramisu offers creamy, spiced flavors with a delightful crumble topping of cocoa powder and crushed gingerbread cookies.


Ingredients

Tiramisu Mixture

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 1 1⁄4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 1⁄4 cups mascarpone cheese
  • 1⁄2 cup eggnog
  • 1 tsp rum extract

Cookie and Coffee Soak

  • 40 gingerbread cookies
  • 1⁄2 cup coffee (hot)

Crumble Topping

  • Cocoa powder, for dusting
  • Crushed gingerbread cookies, for garnish


Instructions

  1. Whip the Cream: In a mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This will create the light base of the tiramisu filling. Set aside once done.
  2. Prepare Egg and Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the egg yolks and powdered sugar, mixing until the mixture becomes pale yellow and smooth. Then add mascarpone cheese to this egg mixture, whipping thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and free of clumps.
  3. Fold in Whipped Cream: Gently transfer the whipped cream into the egg and mascarpone mixture. Fold carefully until fully combined and there are no visible streaks, ensuring a fluffy, homogeneous filling.
  4. Mix Coffee Soak: In a small bowl, mix hot coffee, rum extract, and eggnog together until well combined. This mixture will be used to briefly dip the gingerbread cookies, infusing them with rich, spiced flavor.
  5. Prepare Base Layer: Using a 9×9 inch baking dish, quickly dip each gingerbread cookie into the coffee soak, making sure it’s fully but quickly submerged to avoid sogginess. Place the dipped cookies side by side in the bottom of the dish to cover the surface.
  6. Add Filling Layer: Spread a layer of the whipped tiramisu filling evenly over the cookie layer in the baking dish.
  7. Repeat Layers: Continue to dip cookies and layer them with the filling, repeating until the dish is filled with about 4-5 layers. The final layer should be the tiramisu filling.
  8. Add Topping: Using a sifter, dust cocoa powder evenly over the top layer of filling. Optionally, sprinkle crushed gingerbread cookies on top for extra texture and flavor.
  9. Chill: Refrigerate the assembled tiramisu for at least 90 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
  10. Serve: Remove from the refrigerator and serve by the spoonful, enjoying the creamy layers paired with the festive flavors of gingerbread and eggnog.

Notes

  • Ensure the coffee is hot to help soak the gingerbread cookies quickly without making them too soggy.
  • Use fresh egg yolks and mascarpone for best flavor and texture.
  • The dessert benefits from chilling time to let the layers meld and set perfectly.
  • You can substitute rum extract with real rum for an authentic flavor, but omit if serving to children.
  • For a firmer tiramisu, chill longer or overnight.
  • Adjust the amount of powdered sugar to taste, depending on the sweetness of the cookies and eggnog.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 30 g
  • Sodium: 110 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 195 mg

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