Tiramisu Entremet Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate showstopper dessert that’s equal parts sophisticated and delightfully classic, look no further than the Tiramisu Entremet. This stunning creation transforms the beloved flavors of traditional tiramisu into an elegant, multi-layered mousse cake that’s perfect for special occasions or impressing a crowd. With lush mascarpone mousse, espresso-soaked sponge, and options for a shimmering cocoa glaze or coffee gelée, every forkful is a delicate balance of rich coffee, creamy sweetness, and melt-in-your-mouth lightness—the very essence of what makes tiramisu so enchanting.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every component of this Tiramisu Entremet comes together from simple and easily sourced ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building its complex flavors and textures. Don’t let the list intimidate you; once you break it down, you’ll see just how each layer brings something special to the table.

• Eggs: The foundation of the ladyfinger sponge, supplying structure and tenderness; use large eggs for best results.
• Granulated Sugar: For sweetness and stability, ensuring every bite is perfectly balanced.
• Cream of Tartar: Helps your egg whites whip to lofty, stable peaks for a delicate, airy sponge.
• All-Purpose Flour: The classic base for the sponge, giving it just the right crumb.
• Cornstarch: Adds extra tenderness for a melt-in-the-mouth bite.
• Powdered Sugar: A soft finish for dusting and blending effortlessly into the mascarpone filling.
• Espresso: Deep coffee flavor is key to tiramisu—go strong and bold!
• Coffee Liqueur: (like Kahlúa) Brings warmth and complexity to the coffee soak, seamlessly marrying all the layers.
• Heavy Cream: Whipped into the mascarpone for luscious, cloud-like mousse.
• Unflavored Gelatin: Ensures your mousse and layers hold their shape beautifully, especially when unmolded.
• Mascarpone Cheese: The heart of tiramisu—rich, creamy, and slightly tangy; room temperature works best for blending.
• Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavor in the mousse, giving it that cozy, familiar note.
• Cocoa Powder: For dusting or blending into the optional glaze, a bittersweet finishing touch.
• Chocolate Shavings / Espresso Beans: Optional garnishes with big visual (and flavor!) impact.
• Acetate Sheets / Silicone Molds: Not edible, of course, but essential tools for perfect individual Tiramisu Entremets.

How to Make Tiramisu Entremet

Step 1: Bake the Ladyfinger Sponge

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. First, whip the egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form, then gradually add half of your sugar and beat until you get stiff, glossy peaks. In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with the remaining sugar until they’re thick and pale. Gently fold the whites into the yolks—a patient hand here keeps your sponge light. Sift in the flour and cornstarch, folding just until no streaks remain. Spread this airy batter onto your prepared sheet, bake for 10–12 minutes until just golden and springy, then cool. Once cooled, cut into rounds that fit your Tiramisu Entremet molds.

Step 2: Prepare the Coffee Soak

While your sponge cools, stir together the cooled espresso, coffee liqueur, and sugar until all the sugar is dissolved. This coffee soak is the flavor backbone of your Tiramisu Entremet, infusing every bite of the sponge with moody, café-style decadence.

Step 3: Make the Mascarpone Mousse

Sprinkle gelatin over cold water in a small bowl and let it stand (bloom) for five minutes. Gently heat until completely dissolved, then set aside to cool just briefly. Whip the mascarpone with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip your cold heavy cream to soft peaks. Blend the cooled gelatin into the mascarpone, then gently fold in the whipped cream—this creates a dreamy mousse that’s sturdy enough for elegant slicing.

Step 4: Assemble the Entremet Layers

Line your silicone molds or cake ring with acetate. Place a sponge round at the base of each. Drizzle or brush generously with coffee soak so the flavors seep into the sponge. Pipe or spoon on a generous cloud of mascarpone mousse. For an extra-special touch, nestle in a chilled disc of coffee gelée if you’re using it. Add a second sponge round, soak again, and top with another layer of mousse. Smooth the surface and freeze the assembled entremets for at least 6 hours or overnight to set everything perfectly.

Step 5: Prepare the Cocoa Glaze (Optional)

While your entremets freeze, prepare the optional cocoa glaze. Simmer water, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder in a small saucepan. Stir in the heavy cream and bring just to a light boil, then remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin. Let this glossy glaze cool to about 90°F (32°C)—it should be pourable but not hot, perfect for enrobing your Tiramisu Entremet in a sleek, shiny finish.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Unmold your frozen Tiramisu Entremet onto a wire rack set over a tray. Pour the cooled cocoa glaze evenly over the top, or if you’d rather keep it traditional, simply dust with cocoa powder. Add chocolate shavings or espresso beans for a final flourish. Let your entremets thaw in the refrigerator for 2–3 hours before serving, so each bite is creamy, light, and irresistible.

How to Serve Tiramisu Entremet

Garnishes

You can take your Tiramisu Entremet from delightful to truly dazzling with the right finishing touches. Sift a generous layer of unsweetened cocoa powder over the top for that iconic tiramisu look, or add curls of dark chocolate and a few glossy espresso beans for café-chic flair. Even a sprinkle of edible gold dust can give your dessert a true patisserie vibe!

Side Dishes

While Tiramisu Entremet shines all on its own, it pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla gelato or a handful of fresh berries to lighten up the richness. If serving at brunch, a tiny glass of amaretto or a simple affogato alongside would be pure elegance.

Creative Ways to Present

Play with presentation by using individual silicone dome molds for elegant single-serve Tiramisu Entremets or create a showstopping centerpiece cake by assembling layers in a tall ring mold. For a modern twist, serve in glass jars for portable desserts—just layer sponge, soak, mousse, and repeat for a “deconstructed” feel!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Tiramisu Entremet stores wonderfully in the refrigerator, staying fresh and luscious for up to three days. Simply keep it well-covered or in an airtight container to prevent the delicate flavors and textures from drying out or picking up other fridge aromas.

Freezing

One of the best things about this recipe is how beautifully it freezes. Store finished, unmolded—or even just assembled but unglazed—entremets in the freezer, tightly wrapped, for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to serve for picture-perfect results every time.

Reheating

Great news—no reheating needed! Simply transfer your frozen Tiramisu Entremet to the fridge a few hours before serving and let it thaw gently. This keeps all the mousse and sponge layers in tip-top, creamy condition, without melting or separating.

FAQs

Can I make Tiramisu Entremet without coffee liqueur?

Absolutely! If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, just replace the coffee liqueur with additional espresso or strong brewed coffee. The dessert will still be packed with all the classic tiramisu flavor you love.

What if I don’t have acetate sheets or silicone molds?

No problem—just use a springform pan lined with plastic wrap or parchment paper for a single large Tiramisu Entremet cake. You can also use ramekins or glass jars for charming individual servings.

Is the coffee gelée layer necessary?

Not at all! The coffee gelée is a luxe upgrade, adding a striking flavor and texture contrast, but the Tiramisu Entremet will be deliciously classic without it. Feel free to skip it for a streamlined (but still stunning) dessert.

Can I substitute cream cheese for the mascarpone?

While mascarpone is traditional and lends a buttery richness, you can use full-fat cream cheese in a pinch. Just know the flavor will be tangier and a bit denser, but still tasty!

How far in advance can I assemble Tiramisu Entremet?

You can assemble your entremets up to a week in advance and freeze them until you’re ready to finish and serve. This makes hosting and holiday planning a breeze, letting you enjoy the celebration stress-free.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about crafting a Tiramisu Entremet from scratch—the layers, the flavors, and that perfect creamy texture. Whether you’re celebrating a big occasion or simply want to spoil yourself and your loved ones, this elegant dessert promises to delight. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy of your beautifully made Tiramisu Entremet!

Print