Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu is the dessert you didn’t know you needed—until now. This rich, creamy classic takes everything you love about Italian sweets and cranks up the wow factor without making you break a sweat. Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu is not your average dessert—it’s a spoonful of decadence, a hug in food form, and let’s be honest, the answer to a long day. With layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and luscious mascarpone cream, this recipe is as effortless as it is elegant. You get all the fancy restaurant vibes without the stress or the bill. Perfect for date nights, holidays, or just because it’s Tuesday.
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What is Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu?
Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu is his spin on the traditional Italian dessert, featuring bold espresso-soaked ladyfingers layered with whipped mascarpone cream and topped with a snowy dusting of cocoa. While the original tiramisu can sometimes lean heavy or overly boozy, Ramsay’s approach is lighter and more balanced, letting the ingredients shine. This recipe doesn’t just taste divine—it also chills beautifully, making it a perfect prep-ahead dessert for holidays, dinner parties, or those moments when you simply want to feel fancy in sweatpants.
Reasons to Try Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu
If the idea of creamy, coffee-kissed dessert has your heart racing a little, you’re not alone. Here’s why this Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu should be the next recipe on your “must-make” list:
- Make-ahead magic – Perfect for prepping the night before and forgetting about until dessert time.
- No baking required – Ideal for summer days or busy weeknights when the oven is your worst enemy.
- Impress without stress – It looks gourmet, tastes indulgent, and takes minimal hands-on time.
- Customizable – Boozy or booze-free, you get to call the shots (hello, coffee liqueur or not).
- Family-friendly – Just skip the alcohol and you’ve got a creamy delight even picky eaters will inhale.
Whether you’re hosting or just surviving, this dessert has your back.
Ingredients Needed to Make Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu
Making Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu at home doesn’t require a cart full of gourmet ingredients or a pastry school diploma. Everything you need is either already in your pantry or just a quick grocery run away. This is all about simplicity meeting sophistication—no fancy tools, no stress.
Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Strong brewed espresso | 1 cup | Let it cool to room temp before using |
| Coffee liqueur (Kahlúa or Marsala) | 2 tbsp | Optional, but adds depth |
| Egg yolks | 3 large | Room temperature is best |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ cup | Helps thicken the yolks |
| Mascarpone cheese | 8 oz | Softened for easy mixing |
| Heavy cream | ½ cup | Whipped to soft peaks |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Adds that warm, sweet aroma |
| Ladyfinger biscuits (Savoiardi) | 20 pieces | Crisp and dry—perfect for soaking |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 2 tbsp | For dusting the top |
| Dark chocolate shavings | Optional | For garnish, and because chocolate never hurts |
Just a note: If you’re feeling adventurous and want to pair this tiramisu with a savory dish that balances the richness, try Gordon’s braised cabbage. It’s a deeply flavorful veggie side that plays surprisingly well before a rich dessert like tiramisu.
Instructions to Make Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu
No oven, no fuss, and no culinary degree required—just a few simple steps and a little patience while it chills. Here’s how to make Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu like a pro without breaking a sweat.
Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Mixture
Start by brewing 1 cup of strong espresso. Let it cool completely—you don’t want to melt your ladyfingers. Once cooled, stir in the 2 tablespoons of coffee liqueur (if using). This adds the signature depth and richness that defines a great tiramisu. If you’re skipping the booze, no worries—it’ll still be dreamy.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Yolks and Sugar
In a heatproof bowl, whisk together 3 egg yolks and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Set the bowl over a double boiler or a pot of simmering water. Keep whisking until the mixture becomes pale, slightly thickened, and you can write your name in it with a spoon (okay, maybe just your initials). Next, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool for a short while.
Step 3: Make the Mascarpone Cream
Once the yolk mixture has cooled a bit, fold in 8 oz of softened mascarpone and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream next—this keeps the mixture light and fluffy instead of dense and heavy.
Step 4: Dip and Layer the Ladyfingers
One at a time, dip each of the 20 ladyfingers into the coffee mixture. Just a quick dunk—1 to 2 seconds tops. Think “spa day,” not “deep dive.” Arrange them in a single layer at the bottom of your serving dish. Spread half the mascarpone mixture on top. Repeat the dip and layer process to build your second story: soaked ladyfingers, then the rest of the mascarpone cream.
Step 5: Chill and Finish
Cover the tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 4 hours—overnight if you can. This allows all the flavors to mingle and marry like a perfect little dessert symphony. Just before serving, generously dust with 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder. Add dark chocolate shavings if you’re feeling extra fancy (and why not?).
What to Serve with Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu
Once you’ve mastered Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu, the next big question is—what pairs well with it? Honestly, this dessert is a showstopper on its own, but if you’re planning a full meal or want to impress guests with a thoughtful pairing, here are some stellar ideas:
1. A Strong Cup of Coffee or Espresso
It may seem obvious, but there’s a reason tiramisu and coffee are best friends. Serving it with a freshly pulled espresso or a warm latte brings out the rich coffee notes already inside the dessert. It’s like the encore after the main act—and just as good.
2. Fresh Berries
Raspberries, strawberries, or even a handful of blueberries offer a bright, tart contrast to the creamy richness of Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu. Plus, they make the plate pop with color if you’re going for presentation points.
3. A Light, Savory Meal Beforehand
Keep your main course simple so your tiramisu can truly shine. A dish like Gordon Ramsay’s braised cabbage with roasted chicken or grilled salmon balances the meal beautifully without leaving everyone in a food coma.
4. Dessert Wine or Liqueur
If you’re entertaining, consider offering a small glass of dessert wine like Vin Santo or a drizzle of coffee liqueur on the side. It elevates the experience without being over the top. And yes, a splash of that same liqueur may have already found its way into your tiramisu.
5. Chocolate-Dipped Biscotti
Want to double down on indulgence? Serve a chocolate-dipped biscotti alongside. It adds a little crunch and an extra excuse to linger over dessert.
Key Tips for Making This Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu Just Right
Tiramisu may be no-bake, but don’t let that fool you—there’s still a little art to getting it silky, balanced, and crowd-worthy. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, these kitchen-tested tips will help you nail it every time.
1. Avoid Over-Soaking
Ladyfingers are quick-dippers, not swimmers. A second or two in the coffee is all they need. Any longer, and you’ll be spooning up espresso pudding instead of layered dessert.
2. Use Quality Ingredients
This dessert is only as good as the parts you put in. Go for fresh eggs, real vanilla extract, and mascarpone that’s creamy—not chalky. Trust us, it matters.
3. Chill Time Is Not Optional
Refrigerate the tiramisu for a minimum of 4 hours, though leaving it overnight will enhance the flavor even more. Even better. This helps the layers set up and the flavors develop into that dreamy, unified bite.
4. Fold Like You Mean It
When combining whipped cream with the mascarpone base, fold gently to keep things light and airy. Stirring too hard knocks the air out and can turn the filling dense.
5. Choose the Right Pan
A shallow glass or ceramic dish makes layering easier and helps everything chill evenly. Bonus: it looks gorgeous when served.
6. Dust Right Before Serving
Wait to add that final cocoa powder flourish until you’re ready to plate. Dusting too early can make it clump or turn darker as it absorbs moisture.
7. Adjust for Taste
Whether or not you use the optional liqueur, aim for a balance between bitter coffee, rich cream, and subtle sweetness. Taste your cream before layering—you’re the boss here.
Storage and Reheating Tips – Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu
Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu isn’t just a one-night wonder—it’s the kind of dessert that often tastes even better the next day after a long chill in the fridge. The flavors deepen, the texture settles, and honestly, it becomes the lasagna of the dessert world—just sweeter, silkier, and definitely more brag-worthy.
How to Store It
Once assembled, cover your dish tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and refrigerate. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, though it rarely lasts that long without disappearing. If you’ve made individual servings in ramekins or jars, those can be sealed individually—super handy for grab-and-go treats or lunchbox surprises.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes! This dessert freezes surprisingly well. Wrap it tightly in plastic and then foil, or use an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. The texture may soften slightly, but the flavors remain rich and delicious.
Reheating? Not Quite.
This isn’t the kind of dessert you reheat—it’s meant to be cold and creamy. If you’ve frozen it, let it defrost gently in the fridge (not the microwave), and then dust with a fresh sprinkle of cocoa just before serving.
Keep It Looking Fresh
Before serving leftovers, add a bit more cocoa powder or a few chocolate shavings to freshen it up. It’ll look just as inviting as the first slice—maybe even more so.
Final Words
Whether you’re a total dessert newbie or the go-to baker in your family, Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu is the kind of recipe that feels both effortless and impressive. With bold coffee flavor, creamy layers, and a prep time that won’t hijack your whole day, this dessert hits that sweet spot between elegance and ease.
It’s the kind of dish that gets requested again and again—after a dinner party, during the holidays, or just because you had an extra cup of coffee lying around. Once you make it, don’t be surprised if it earns a permanent place in your go-to dessert rotation.
Craving more sweets? Don’t miss these Gordon Ramsay Blondies—chewy, buttery, and just as irresistible as this tiramisu.
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FAQs
Can I make tiramisu without alcohol?
Absolutely! The coffee liqueur is optional. Just stick with strong brewed espresso for that classic flavor without the kick.
How long can tiramisu stay in the fridge?
It keeps well for about 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Some say it tastes even better on day two.
Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
In a pinch, yes—but the taste and texture will be different. Mascarpone gives you that smooth, authentic finish.
Is this recipe safe for kids?
As long as you skip the alcohol, yes. You may also want to use decaf espresso if you’re serving little ones.
Can I make it ahead of time?
That’s the beauty of it—yes! Make it the night before and let it chill overnight. It’ll be even more delicious the next day.
Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu
This Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu is rich, creamy, and no-bake—layered with espresso-dipped ladyfingers, a silky mascarpone filling, and a dusting of cocoa. It’s the ultimate make-ahead dessert that looks impressive but takes just 20 minutes to prep. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or just treating yourself, this classic Italian sweet hits the spot with every decadent spoonful.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake, Chilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 cup strong brewed espresso, cooled
- 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (Kahlúa or Marsala, optional)
- 3 large egg yolks
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- ½ cup heavy cream, whipped
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 20 ladyfinger biscuits (Savoiardi)
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Brew espresso and let it cool. Stir in the liqueur if using.
- In a heatproof bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar over simmering water until pale and slightly thick. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Fold mascarpone and vanilla into the egg mixture until smooth. Gently fold in whipped cream.
- Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the espresso (1–2 seconds).
- Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in a dish. Spread half the cream mixture on top.
- Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and the remaining cream.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Dust with cocoa powder before serving. Garnish with chocolate shavings, if desired.
Notes
- Don’t soak the ladyfingers too long—quick dips prevent them from turning soggy.
- Chill longer for better flavor and texture.
- Skip the alcohol to make it kid-friendly.
- Can be made in individual ramekins or a larger serving dish.
