Hey y'all! If you're a fan of classic tiramisu and love the convenience of poke cakes, this Tiramisu Poke Cake (No Bake Layers) is about to become your new favorite treat. With its luscious layers of coffee-soaked cake, rich mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa, it’s the dreamiest, easiest dessert for potlucks, celebrations, or cozy nights in. Plus, it's completely no-bake, so you can enjoy gourmet flavor without turning on the oven. Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Tiramisu Poke Cake (No Bake Layers)
- No-bake layers make prep quick and oven-free—perfect for summer!
- Creamy mascarpone and fluffy whipped cream create an irresistibly light texture.
- Classic tiramisu flavors in an easy, crowd-pleasing format.
- Great for make-ahead entertaining—flavors only get better after chilling.
- Simple ingredients and foolproof assembly, even for beginners.
Ingredients for Tiramisu Poke Cake (No Bake Layers)
- 1 box (14.4 oz) Italian ladyfingers (savoiardi)
- 2 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
- ¼ cup coffee liqueur (such as Kahlua), optional
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- ½ cup granulated sugar, divided
- 16 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips or grated dark chocolate, for garnish (optional)
Directions: How to Make Tiramisu Poke Cake (No Bake Layers)
Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Mixture
Brew 2 cups of strong coffee. Let it cool completely, then stir in the coffee liqueur if using. Set aside.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to whip the cold heavy cream with ¼ cup sugar until stiff peaks form (about 3–4 minutes). Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Mascarpone Filling
In another bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with the remaining ¼ cup sugar and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream until fully combined and fluffy—don’t overmix!
Step 4: Assemble the No Bake Layers
Dip each ladyfinger quickly into the coffee mixture (don’t soak, just a second or two), then arrange a single layer in the bottom of a 9x13-inch dish. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining cream.
Step 5: Chill and Finish
Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best flavor and texture. Just before serving, dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder and sprinkle with mini chocolate chips or grated chocolate if desired.
Notes for the Best Tiramisu Poke Cake (No Bake Layers)
- Use true Italian savoiardi ladyfingers for authentic texture and taste.
- Avoid soaking ladyfingers too long to prevent a soggy cake.
- For mascarpone tips, check out this helpful guide.
Variations: Easy Twists on Tiramisu Poke Cake (No Bake Layers)
- Chocolate Tiramisu Poke Cake: Swap coffee for chocolate milk and add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cream and ladyfingers.
- Berry Tiramisu Poke Cake: Add a layer of fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries between the layers for a fruity twist.
- Nutty Tiramisu Poke Cake: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts or almonds between layers for crunch and flavor.
Required Equipment for Tiramisu Poke Cake (No Bake Layers)
- 9x13-inch baking or casserole dish
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Storage Instructions for Tiramisu Poke Cake (No Bake Layers)
Cover the cake tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For best texture, enjoy within 2 days. Do not freeze, as the mascarpone and cream may separate upon thawing.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve chilled with a fresh cup of espresso or iced coffee for a true Italian experience.
- Pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a drizzle of coffee liqueur.
- For a festive touch, garnish with chocolate curls and edible gold leaf.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Tiramisu Poke Cake (No Bake Layers)
- Chill overnight for maximum flavor development—this cake gets better as it sits! (Learn more about flavor melding here.)
- Use cold mascarpone and cream for the fluffiest results.
- Quickly dip, don’t soak, the ladyfingers for a deliciously moist but structured poke cake.
FAQ: Tiramisu Poke Cake (No Bake Layers) Tips
- Can I make Tiramisu Poke Cake (No Bake Layers) ahead of time?
- Absolutely! It’s even better after chilling overnight, making it perfect for parties and gatherings.
- What can I use instead of mascarpone?
- If you can’t find mascarpone, try a blend of cream cheese and heavy cream for a similar texture and tang.
- Is there an alcohol-free version?
- Yes—just skip the coffee liqueur and use all coffee for a family-friendly dessert.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight recommended)
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla or yellow cake mix, prepared and cooled
- 1 ½ cups brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoon cocoa powder, for dusting
- ¼ cup chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
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1Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cooled cake in a 9x13-inch pan.
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2Slowly pour the cooled espresso or coffee evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
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3In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, mix mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.
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4Spread the mascarpone cream evenly over the soaked cake layer.
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5Dust the top generously with cocoa powder and sprinkle with chocolate shavings if desired.
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6Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.
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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