Why I’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this tiramisu is rich and creamy without feeling overly heavy. The matcha provides a delicate bitterness that balances the sweet mascarpone filling, while the soft ladyfingers create a melt-in-your-mouth texture. I also enjoy making this dessert ahead of time because chilling it allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Matcha Soak
- Matcha powder
- Hot water
- Granulated sugar (optional)
For the Mascarpone Filling
- Mascarpone cheese
- Heavy whipping cream
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
For Assembly
- Ladyfinger cookies
- Matcha powder, for dusting
Optional Garnishes
- White chocolate shavings
- Fresh strawberries
- Fresh raspberries
- Mint leaves
Directions
- I whisk the matcha powder with hot water until completely smooth and allow it to cool.
- I beat the mascarpone cheese until creamy.
- In another bowl, I whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- I gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone until smooth and light.
- I quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled matcha mixture, making sure not to soak them for too long.
- I arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish.
- I spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers.
- I repeat the layers with the remaining soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone filling.
- I cover the dessert and refrigerate it for several hours or overnight to allow the layers to set.
- Just before serving, I dust the top generously with matcha powder and add any optional garnishes I like.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Chill Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
Variations
- I layer fresh sliced strawberries between the mascarpone filling for a fruity version.
- I add white chocolate shavings between the layers for extra sweetness.
- I replace part of the mascarpone with cream cheese for a slightly tangy flavor.
- I sprinkle toasted black sesame seeds over the top for a nutty finish.
- I serve the tiramisu in individual glasses for an elegant presentation.
Storage/Reheating
I store the Matcha Tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since the dessert contains mascarpone and whipped cream, I keep it chilled until serving. If I need longer storage, I freeze individual portions for up to 1 month and thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving. I do not reheat this dessert because it is best enjoyed cold.
FAQs
Can I make Matcha Tiramisu ahead of time?
Yes. I usually prepare it a day before serving because the chilling time allows the flavors to develop and the layers to set beautifully.
What type of matcha should I use?
I prefer culinary-grade matcha because it offers vibrant color and a balanced flavor that works perfectly in desserts.
Can I make this dessert without raw eggs?
Yes. This version uses whipped cream and mascarpone without raw eggs, making it simple and convenient.
Can I use sponge cake instead of ladyfingers?
Yes. I can substitute slices of sponge cake if ladyfingers are unavailable, although the texture will be slightly different.
How do I keep the ladyfingers from becoming soggy?
I dip each ladyfinger into the matcha mixture very quickly so they absorb enough flavor without becoming overly soft.
Conclusion
I love making this Matcha Tiramisu whenever I want a dessert that is creamy, elegant, and full of delicate matcha flavor. The layers of soft ladyfingers and smooth mascarpone filling create a light yet indulgent treat that is perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or afternoon tea. Whether I serve it in a large dish or individual glasses, this Matcha Tiramisu is always a beautiful and memorable dessert.
PrintMatcha Tiramisu
Matcha Tiramisu is a light and creamy Japanese-inspired twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring matcha-soaked ladyfingers layered with a velvety mascarpone filling. It’s an elegant make-ahead dessert with the perfect balance of sweetness and earthy green tea flavor.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons matcha powder
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 24 ladyfinger cookies
- 1 tablespoon matcha powder, for dusting
- White chocolate shavings (optional)
- Fresh strawberries (optional)
- Fresh raspberries (optional)
- Mint leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Whisk the matcha powder with the hot water and optional sugar until smooth. Let it cool completely.
- Beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone until fully combined.
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled matcha mixture.
- Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Dust generously with matcha powder and garnish with white chocolate shavings, berries, or mint before serving if desired.
Notes
- Dip the ladyfingers quickly to prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Culinary-grade matcha provides excellent flavor and vibrant color.
- Prepare the tiramisu a day ahead for the best texture and flavor.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze individual portions for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 31 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg