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Italian Tiramisu Cheesecake

This Italian Tiramisu Cheesecake, known as 'Cheesecake al Tiramisu' in Italy, is a delightful fusion of classic cheesecake and the beloved coffee-flavored dessert. The rich layers of cream cheese and mascarpone create a velvety texture, while the chocolate cookie crust provides a satisfying crunch. Soaked ladyfingers imbue the cheesecake with deep coffee notes, making every bite a celebration of flavor and tradition. Tiramisu holds a special cultural significance in Italy, often served at celebrations and gatherings, evoking feelings of warmth and togetherness. This cheesecake version offers a modern twist, perfect for any occasion, allowing you to indulge in the essence of tiramisu in a unique and luscious form.

Dessert | Italian | Vegetarian | Cheesecake | Food Processor | Oven | Springform Pan | Stand Mixer | Coffee powder | Cream Cheese | Ladyfinger | Mascarpone | Baking | Water Bath | Family Gathering | Festive | Overnight | Slow
Time to complete

Prep

30min

Cook

1h 20min

Wait

2h 15min

Total

4h 5min

Ingredients (Makes 12 servings)

Crust

  • 35 chocolate crème cookies (455 g)
  • 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (85 g)

Cheesecake Filling

  • 24 oz full-fat cream cheese, room temperature (680 g)
  • 8 oz good quality mascarpone (226 g), room temperature
  • 1½ cups granulated sugar (325 g)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla essence
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • ½ cup heavy cream (120 g)
  • 1 cup sour cream (240 g)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch

Coffee Layer

  • 12 ladyfinger biscuits
  • ½ cup strong coffee
  • 4 oz good quality mascarpone cheese, cold (113 g)
  • 2-4 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp instant coffee + 1 tsp water

Topping

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled (240 g)
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder for dusting
Nutrition Information (per 100g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Fat: 24
  • Protein: 6
  • Carbohydrates: 30
  • Fiber: 1
Directions

Prepare the Crust

  • 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter the bottom of a 10-inch (25 cm) springform pan.
  • 2. In a food processor, blend the chocolate crème cookies and melted butter until a fine crumb forms.
  • 3. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, pressing it firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides.

Bake the Crust

  • 4. Bake for 7-8 minutes, then set aside.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

  • 5. Reduce the oven temperature to 320°F (160°C). In a stand mixer, combine cream cheese, mascarpone, sugar, vanilla, and salt.
  • 6. Beat on medium-low speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
  • 7. In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the eggs and add them gradually to the batter, mixing on low speed until just combined.
  • 8. Add the heavy cream, sour cream, and sifted cornstarch, mixing gently until combined.

Assemble the Cheesecake

  • 9. Seal the springform pan tightly with aluminum foil. Pour half of the cheesecake batter into the crust and gently shake to level.
  • 10. Quickly dip the ladyfingers in the coffee and layer them on top of the batter, cutting them as necessary to fit.
  • 11. Pour the remaining batter over the ladyfingers and smooth the top.

Bake the Cheesecake

  • 12. Place a large tray filled with 1-2 inches of boiling water in the oven. Bake the cheesecake for approximately 80 minutes.

Cool the Cheesecake

  • 13. The cheesecake should have firm edges and a slightly jiggly center. Cool at room temperature for 15 minutes.
  • 14. Run a knife around the edges to loosen, then let cool for 2-3 hours before refrigerating overnight.

Prepare the Topping

  • 15. The next day, whisk together cold mascarpone, sugar, and coffee until creamy.
  • 16. Add the chilled heavy cream and whisk until stiff peaks form.

Finish the Cheesecake

  • 17. Carefully remove the cheesecake from the pan and spread a thin layer of coffee mascarpone cream on top.
  • 18. Pipe the remaining cream decoratively on top and dust with cocoa powder before serving.
Cookix's Secrets

Alternative Sweeteners

  • Substitute granulated sugar with a sugar alternative for a lower-calorie option.

Alternative Toppings

  • Top with fresh berries or a berry compote for added freshness.

Baking Tips

  • Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.

Cooling Tips

  • Do not open the oven door during baking to prevent cracks.

Flavor Variations

  • Incorporate orange zest into the batter for a citrus twist.

Healthier Options

  • Use low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Serving Tips

  • Dust with additional cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for an elegant touch.