Christmas Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe

If you’re anything like me, the holidays call for desserts that feel like a warm hug — and that is exactly what this Christmas Gingerbread Tiramisu brings to your table. Imagine the classic Italian tiramisu with its creamy mascarpone and coffee-soaked ladyfingers, but with the whole festive spirit woven in through cozy gingerbread spices like cinnamon, clove, and molasses. This dessert is a beautiful way to share holiday cheer with friends and family, blending the rich flavors of Christmas with the smooth elegance of tiramisu. It’s festive, comforting, and truly unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for Christmas Gingerbread Tiramisu is easier than it sounds, and each element plays a crucial role in creating that perfect harmony of flavor and texture. From robust espresso to the warm spices that give this tiramisu its magic, each ingredient is thoughtfully selected to make this dessert both comforting and sophisticated.

• Espresso or strong coffee: Provides the bold coffee flavor essential for soaking the ladyfingers and balancing the sweetness.
• White sugar: Sweetens both the coffee mixture and mascarpone filling without overpowering the spices.
• Dark rum: Adds a subtle warmth and depth, evoking holiday spirit.
• Ladyfingers: These crisp cookies absorb the coffee mixture perfectly, forming the tiramisu’s delicate layers.
• Heavy cream: Whipped to soft peaks, this adds lightness and creaminess to the mascarpone mixture.
• Egg yolks: Provide richness and, when beaten with sugar and spices, create a luscious base for the mascarpone.
• Mascarpone cheese: The star creamy ingredient essential to classic tiramisu texture and flavor.
• Unsulphured molasses: Brings a robust, deep sweetness that complements the gingerbread spices beautifully.
• Cinnamon, ground ginger, cloves, and allspice: This spice blend captures the essence of gingerbread, filling the tiramisu with warm holiday aromas.

How to Make Christmas Gingerbread Tiramisu

Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Mixture

Start by brewing your espresso or strong coffee, then mix it with white sugar and dark rum until the sugar completely dissolves. This aromatic liquid will be your dipping bath for the ladyfingers, infusing them with warming holiday flavor. Let it cool so the cookies absorb it without falling apart.

Step 2: Whip the Heavy Cream

Next, whip the cold heavy cream until it holds stiff peaks. This fluffy cream will lighten the rich mascarpone and egg yolk filling, giving the tiramisu its airy, luscious texture.

Step 3: Create the Mascarpone Mixture

Beat the egg yolks with sugar, molasses, and that glorious blend of cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and allspice until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then fold in the softened mascarpone cheese. This combination is where the true magic of the Christmas Gingerbread Tiramisu happens, marrying creamy indulgence with festive spice.

Step 4: (Optional) Gently Cook the Egg Yolks

If raw eggs make you uneasy, you can carefully cook the egg yolks and sugar over simmering water while whisking constantly until thickened. Let this cool before adding mascarpone, molasses, and spices, then beat until smooth and airy. This step ensures safety without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Step 5: Fold in the Whipped Cream

Gently combine the whipped cream with the mascarpone-spice mixture, folding carefully to preserve the airy texture. This silky filling is what elevates the Christmas Gingerbread Tiramisu to a decadent, velvety dessert perfect for the season.

Step 6: Assemble the Layers

Quickly dip each ladyfinger in the cooled coffee mixture for no more than three seconds to avoid sogginess. Arrange a layer of these soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of your baking dish, then spread half the mascarpone filling on top. Repeat with a second layer of dipped ladyfingers and finish with the remaining filling. This build-up of layers ensures every bite tastes perfectly balanced.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Cover your masterpiece with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least six hours. This chilling allows the flavors to meld, the ladyfingers to soften fully, and the filling to set into a creamy dream. Just before serving, you can dust with extra cinnamon to enhance that festive vibe.

How to Serve Christmas Gingerbread Tiramisu

Garnishes

Think beyond a simple sprinkle of cinnamon. Garnish your Christmas Gingerbread Tiramisu with a few chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder to add a bit of indulgence. A sprig of fresh rosemary or a few candied cranberries introduces a pop of green and red, turning this dessert into a holiday showstopper.

Side Dishes

This tiramisu pairs beautifully with spiced mulled wine or a rich cup of hot cocoa. Serve alongside a small plate of ginger snap cookies or roasted chestnuts for an authentic, cozy Christmas feel that complements the gingerbread flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more personalized touch, try assembling the Christmas Gingerbread Tiramisu in individual glass jars or clear dessert cups. This makes for an elegant presentation where guests can see the layers and feel the festive excitement in every serving. You can also add edible gold leaf for that extra holiday sparkle!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover your Christmas Gingerbread Tiramisu tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and keep it refrigerated. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, and you’ll even notice the flavors continue to deepen, making the next-day dessert a true delight.

Freezing

While tiramisu isn’t traditionally frozen, if you want to save some for later, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator to let it soften gently without losing its signature creamy texture. However, for the best flavor and texture, fresh is always preferred.

Reheating

Reheating tiramisu isn’t recommended, as it’s meant to be enjoyed chilled. Instead, serve it straight from the refrigerator to savor the creamy, cold texture that defines this classic dessert, especially when transformed with the holiday spices of the Christmas Gingerbread Tiramisu.

FAQs

Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso?

Yes, you can use strong brewed coffee as a substitute for espresso. Just make sure it’s bold enough to hold up against the rich mascarpone and sweet spices for the perfect flavor balance.

Is it safe to use raw egg yolks in this recipe?

If you have concerns about raw eggs, follow the optional step to gently cook the yolks over simmering water. This ensures safety while maintaining the creamy consistency and flavor needed for the tiramisu.

Can I make Christmas Gingerbread Tiramisu ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, letting the tiramisu chill for at least six hours, preferably overnight, enhances the flavors and texture, making it even more delicious when served.

What can I use instead of dark rum?

If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute it with additional coffee or a non-alcoholic spiced syrup for an equally festive taste.

How do I ensure the ladyfingers don’t get too soggy?

Dip the ladyfingers in the coffee mixture very quickly—no more than three seconds—so they soak up enough liquid without falling apart. This helps maintain the perfect texture in your tiramisu.

Final Thoughts

Christmas Gingerbread Tiramisu is one of those wonderful desserts that feels both familiar and wonderfully festive. It takes a beloved classic and wraps it in all the warmth and spice of the holiday season. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or gifting it to friends, this dessert is guaranteed to spark joy and holiday spirit. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite Christmas tradition.

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