Hey y'all! If you're a fan of classic Italian desserts with a twist, you're going to love this Easy Tiramisu Balls Recipe. These little no-bake treats pack all the creamy, coffee-flavored goodness of traditional tiramisu into bite-sized balls, making them absolutely perfect for parties, potlucks, or a sweet pick-me-up any day. They’re a dream to make—quick, fuss-free, and always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Easy Tiramisu Balls Recipe
- No baking required—super fast and simple to make!
- Bursting with rich coffee and cocoa flavor in every bite.
- Perfect for parties, gifts, or make-ahead desserts.
- Minimal mess and just a handful of ingredients.
- Easy to customize for your favorite flavors or dietary needs.
Easy Tiramisu Balls Recipe Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups (150g) ladyfinger cookies, finely crushed
- ½ cup (120g) mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- ⅓ cup (40g) powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons strong brewed espresso, cooled
- 1 tablespoon Kahlua or coffee liqueur (optional)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder, for rolling
How to Make Easy Tiramisu Balls Recipe – Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Ladyfingers
Crush the ladyfinger cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and crushing with a rolling pin.
2. Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, espresso, Kahlua (if using), and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Form the Dough
Add the crushed ladyfingers to the mascarpone mixture. Mix until everything is well combined and forms a soft dough. If the mixture is too sticky, add a few more cookie crumbs; if it’s too dry, add a splash more espresso.
4. Shape the Balls
Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Coat in Cocoa
Roll each ball in unsweetened cocoa powder until fully coated. For extra flair, try a mix of cocoa and finely grated dark chocolate.
6. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the tiramisu balls for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps them firm up and enhances the flavors.
Notes for Perfect Easy Tiramisu Balls Recipe
- For best results, use high-quality mascarpone cheese—learn more about mascarpone here.
- Chill the mixture briefly if it’s too sticky to handle.
- Use decaf espresso if you want these to be kid-friendly!
Easy Tiramisu Balls Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Chip Tiramisu Balls: Fold in ¼ cup mini chocolate chips for extra texture.
- Nutty Tiramisu Balls: Roll the balls in finely chopped roasted hazelnuts instead of cocoa powder.
- Dairy-Free Tiramisu Balls: Substitute mascarpone with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Required Equipment for Easy Tiramisu Balls Recipe
- Mixing bowls
- Food processor or rolling pin & zip-top bag
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
- Small cookie scoop (optional)
Easy Tiramisu Balls Recipe Storage Instructions
Store tiramisu balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months—thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Serving Recommendations and Pairings for Easy Tiramisu Balls Recipe
- Serve chilled as a dessert bite with espresso or coffee.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla gelato for an ultra-indulgent treat.
- Sprinkle with extra cocoa powder or chocolate shavings just before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Easy Tiramisu Balls Recipe
- Don’t over-soak your dough—add espresso gradually for perfect texture.
- For even-sized balls, use a cookie scoop or weigh each portion.
- For a boozy kick, try other liqueurs like Amaretto or Baileys (classic tiramisu inspiration).
Easy Tiramisu Balls Recipe FAQ
- Can I make these tiramisu balls ahead of time?
- Absolutely! They’re actually even better after a day in the fridge as the flavors meld.
- What if I don’t have Kahlua?
- You can skip it or use any coffee-flavored liqueur, or simply add a little extra espresso.
- Are these tiramisu balls kid-friendly?
- Yes—just leave out the liqueur and use decaf espresso for an all-ages treat. Learn more about caffeine and kids.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yields: 18-20 balls
Ingredients
- 200 g ladyfingers (savoiardi) biscuits
- 120 g mascarpone cheese
- 3 tablespoon strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoon cocoa powder, plus extra for dusting
- 2 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
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1Crush the ladyfingers into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a ziplock bag and crushing with a rolling pin.
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2In a large bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, brewed coffee, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, coffee liqueur (if using), cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until smooth.
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3Add the crushed ladyfingers to the mascarpone mixture and stir until a soft dough forms.
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4Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll into balls about the size of a walnut.
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5Roll each ball in cocoa powder to coat. Place on a tray lined with parchment paper.
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6Refrigerate the tiramisu balls for at least 1 hour before serving to allow them to firm up.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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