As I stirred the velvety mascarpone cheese and rich coffee together, the captivating aroma wrapped around me like a warm embrace. There’s something delightful about combining the bold flavors of Bailey’s Irish Cream with a classic tiramisu that feels both indulgent and comforting. This recipe went from a spontaneous idea to a must-have family favorite during our gatherings, transforming our dessert menu entirely.
After a particularly hectic week, I craved something that would impress friends but didn’t require an entire day in the kitchen. Every layer of this dessert unfolds like a love letter to coffee and cream, making it perfect for any occasion—from casual get-togethers to elegant dinner parties. And the best part? You’ll never guess just how simple it is to whip up! Prepare to be enchanted with a dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also becomes a conversation starter. Let’s dive into the deliciousness of Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu!
Why is Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu a Must-Try?
Indulgent layers of flavors create a dessert experience like no other, blending velvety mascarpone with rich espresso and Bailey’s Irish Cream for an unforgettable taste. Effortless preparation ensures impressive results—perfect for both novice cooks and culinary enthusiasts! Crowd-pleasing appeal makes it an ideal ending to any meal, leaving guests craving more. Versatile enjoyment allows you to serve it at casual family dinners or elegant gatherings. Plus, the convenient make-ahead aspect means you can relax while it chills overnight, making this dessert a delightful addition to your repertoire!
Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create your indulgent masterpiece!
For the Cream Mixture
- 4 large (pasteurized) egg yolks – ensure they are fresh for a rich flavor and velvety texture.
- ½ cup sugar – this sweetener balances the strong coffee and cream in the dessert.
- 1 cup heavy cream – a key to achieving that luxurious and fluffy consistency.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – adds a warm, comforting aroma to your dessert.
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese – this creamy cheese is essential for that authentic tiramisu flavor.
For the Coffee Layer
- 12 ounces strong brewed espresso – use freshly brewed for a bold coffee punch.
- ¼ cup Irish cream liqueur – the star of this dessert, bringing a rich, smooth taste.
For Assembly and Topping
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – sprinkle generously for that classic tiramisu finish.
- 8 ounces ladyfingers (about 24 cookies) – these cookies soak in the espresso and lend texture.
- 2 ounces milk chocolate, freshly grated/shaved – adds a touch of sweetness and elevates the dessert’s presentation.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to making a delightful Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu that will leave everyone at your table enchanted!
How to Make Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu
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Beat Egg Yolks: In a bowl, beat together the egg yolks and ¼ cup of sugar until pale yellow and doubled in volume, about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a light and airy base.
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Whip Cream: In another bowl, beat the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and remaining ¼ cup of sugar until medium peaks form. Add the mascarpone cheese and beat until combined and spreadable. Fold this mixture gently into the egg yolks until fully combined.
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Prepare Espresso Mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the espresso and Irish cream liqueur. This blend brings a rich depth to your tiramisu.
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Layer Cocoa: Sprinkle cocoa powder over the bottom of your baking dish to create a delicious foundation. This adds an extra chocolatey layer to every bite!
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Dip Ladyfingers: Dip ladyfingers into the espresso mixture for a count of 3 seconds on each side. Place them in a single layer in the dish. This allows them to soak up all that delightful coffee flavor!
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Spread Cream: Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, then sprinkle more cocoa powder on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining ladyfingers and finish with the rest of the mascarpone mixture.
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Finish with Chocolate: Sprinkle the remaining cocoa powder on top and add the freshly grated chocolate. This finishing touch not only looks beautiful but also adds a decadent richness!
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Chill: Refrigerate your masterpiece for at least 6 hours or overnight. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together perfectly.
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Serve: When ready, serve by scooping into dishes, allowing everyone to enjoy this delightful dessert!
Optional: Garnish with a dusting of cocoa powder before serving for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful variations that will make your Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu even more special and personalized!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ladyfingers as a direct substitute to create a version everyone can enjoy without compromising on taste.
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Decaf Delight: Swap the strong brewed espresso for decaffeinated coffee to enjoy the delicious flavors without the caffeine kick, perfect for an evening treat!
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Vegan Twist: Replace the egg yolks with silken tofu and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, along with a dairy-free cream cheese. This option maintains the creamy texture while being plant-based.
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Chocolate Lovers: Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the mascarpone layers for a thick, indulgent boost that chocolate enthusiasts will adore.
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Fruit Infusion: Incorporate fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries in between the layers for a bright and tangy contrast to the rich mascarpone. The vibrant colors will make your dessert beautiful as well as delightful!
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Nuts for Flavor: Toss in some hazelnuts or almonds in the layers for a satisfying crunch, adding both texture and a nutty flavor that complements the creaminess.
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Spiced Variation: Introduce a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg in the mascarpone mixture for a warm, spiced flavor profile that dances on the tongue!
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Salted Caramel Addition: Drizzle some salted caramel sauce over the final layer before chilling. This sweet and salty combination will elevate your tiramisu to new heights!
With these variations, your Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu can become a customizable centerpiece for any gathering. Enjoy making it your own!
What to Serve with Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu?
A perfect dessert deserves delightful companions to create an unforgettable dining experience.
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Espresso: A rich shot of espresso enhances the coffee notes in the tiramisu, offering a warm after-dinner drink.
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Chocolate Mousse: This airy dessert adds a luxurious texture that beautifully complements the creamy layers of tiramisu, elevating the sweet affair.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a bright pop of acidity, cutting through the richness and refreshing the palate.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream isn’t just beautiful—it adds extra creaminess, making every bite even more indulgent.
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Bailey’s Irish Cream Cocktails: For a cohesive pairing, serve a silky Irish cream cocktail that echoes the flavors of your dessert and delights your guests.
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Mint Chocolates: A selection of mint-infused chocolates offers a fresh finish to your meal, balancing the sweetness and making your dessert memorable.
How to Store and Freeze Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu
Fridge: Store the tiramisu covered in plastic wrap or an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep it fresh while allowing the flavors to continue melding.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. It can be stored for up to 2 months without losing taste.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the container to the fridge to thaw overnight. Refrain from refreezing once it has been thawed to maintain texture.
Serving Tip: Serve chilled, and consider adding a fresh dusting of cocoa powder before serving for that extra touch of elegance!
Expert Tips for Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always select fresh eggs and mascarpone cheese for the best flavor. Quality ingredients elevate your Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu significantly.
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Perfect Soaking Time: When dipping ladyfingers in the espresso mixture, remember to limit soaking to about 3 seconds. Too long can make them overly soggy.
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Chill Overnight: For the richest flavor experience, allow your tiramisu to chill overnight. This resting time helps the layers meld beautifully, enhancing the taste.
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Light Folding Technique: When combining the mascarpone mixture with the egg yolks, be gentle. Avoid overmixing to maintain that airy texture essential to your Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu.
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Customize with Toppings: Feel free to add hazelnut or almond slivers on top for added texture and visual appeal. They can complement the rich flavors wonderfully.
Make Ahead Options
These Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu layers are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the mascarpone mixture and dip the ladyfingers in the espresso up to 24 hours in advance. Simply complete steps 1-5 and assemble the layers in the baking dish as directed, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain the silky texture and rich flavors, ensure the dessert is well-protected from air during chilling. Just before serving, add the final touches of cocoa powder and grated chocolate (steps 7-9) for a delightful finish. This make-ahead approach saves time on busy evenings and allows those delicious flavors to deepen!
Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu Recipe FAQs
What type of eggs should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! It’s crucial to use large pasteurized eggs for this Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu. Pasteurized eggs ensure safety in recipes that require raw or lightly cooked eggs, which is important for your health while still delivering that rich, velvety flavor.
How should I store my leftover tiramisu?
The best way to store your tiramisu is to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to continue melding, enhancing the deliciousness every day!
Can I freeze Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight container. Your delicious tiramisu can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and serve chilled.
What if my cream mixture is too runny?
If your cream mixture is runny, it can be an issue with beating the cream to just the right consistency. Make sure to beat your heavy cream until medium peaks form—this adds the necessary lightness and stability. If it ends up too runny, try chilling the mixture briefly and then whipping it again to achieve the desired consistency!
Is this dessert suitable for those with dairy allergies?
Unfortunately, this Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu contains dairy, making it unsuitable for those with dairy allergies. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, you could experiment with coconut cream in place of heavy cream and dairy-free mascarpone. Just keep in mind that the flavor may differ slightly!
Can I use other liqueurs instead of Bailey’s Irish Cream?
Very! While Bailey’s brings a unique flavor, you can substitute with other liqueurs like Kahlúa for a coffee twist or Amaretto for an almond-infused spark. Make sure the liqueur aligns with your flavor preference, as it plays a significant role in the overall taste of your tiramisu!
Indulge in Bailey’s Irish Cream Tiramisu Bliss Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, beat together the egg yolks and ¼ cup of sugar until pale yellow and doubled in volume, about 5 minutes.
- In another bowl, beat the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and remaining ¼ cup of sugar until medium peaks form. Add the mascarpone cheese and beat until combined and spreadable.
- Fold this mixture gently into the egg yolks until fully combined.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the espresso and Irish cream liqueur.
- Sprinkle cocoa powder over the bottom of your baking dish.
- Dip ladyfingers into the espresso mixture for a count of 3 seconds on each side and place them in a single layer in the dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, then sprinkle more cocoa powder on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ladyfingers and finish with the rest of the mascarpone mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining cocoa powder on top and add the freshly grated chocolate.
- Refrigerate your masterpiece for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- When ready, serve by scooping into dishes, allowing everyone to enjoy this delightful dessert!






