Name: Tiramisu Cold Brew Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups cold brew coffee (store-bought or homemade); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon cocoa powder, for dusting; ¼ cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons mascarpone cheese, softened; 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; Cocoa powder, for dusting; Chocolate shavings (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 24 reviews

If you’ve ever wished your coffee could get an elegant upgrade that feels like a dessert and a morning pick-me-up all at once, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Tiramisu Cold Brew. This delightful drink combines the rich, bold flavors of cold brew coffee with a luscious, creamy tiramisu-inspired foam that floats elegantly on top. It’s a gorgeous, indulgent treat that’s surprisingly simple to whip up, perfect for a special morning or an afternoon moment of bliss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Tiramisu Cold Brew Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in the Tiramisu Cold Brew plays an essential role in creating that perfect balance of creamy decadence and robust coffee flavor. From the deeply brewed coffee to the sweet, fluffy foam, these components work harmoniously to bring the best tiramisu-inspired coffee drink to life.

Cold brew coffee (1 ½ cups): Use either store-bought or homemade for that smooth, rich coffee base free from bitterness.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon + ½ teaspoon): Adds a warm, aromatic sweetness that complements both the coffee and the foam layers.
Cocoa powder (½ teaspoon for dusting + extra for garnish): Brings the classic tiramisu chocolate note and a bit of bitterness to balance the sweetness.
Heavy cream (¼ cup): Whipped into a fluffy texture to lend richness to the foam.
Mascarpone cheese (2 tablespoons, softened): The star ingredient of tiramisu, providing the foam with its creamy, dreamy character.
Sweetened condensed milk (1 tablespoon): Turns the foam irresistibly sweet without overpowering the other flavors.
Chocolate shavings (optional): A pretty, textural garnish that enhances the look and taste.

How to Make Tiramisu Cold Brew

Step 1: Mix the Cold Brew Layer

Start by combining your cold brew coffee with vanilla extract in a tall glass. Stir gently but thoroughly to blend the flavors. This base is where the bold coffee notes start their magic, offering a smooth foundation for the creamy topping to shine.

Step 2: Make the Tiramisu Foam

In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, mascarpone, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture turns thick, smooth, and luscious. This velvety foam is the heart of Tiramisu Cold Brew, packing all the indulgence of a classic tiramisu dessert into a light, dreamy cloud.

Step 3: Pour the Foam Over Coffee

Carefully spoon or pour the tiramisu foam over the cold brew coffee. The goal is to let the foam float on top, creating that beautiful layered effect reminiscent of your favorite Italian dessert in drink form. Take your time—it’s worth the extra attention to detail.

Step 4: Add the Final Touches

Finish by dusting the top with cocoa powder and, if you like, sprinkle some chocolate shavings. This last step not only amps up the flavor but also adds that classic tiramisu aesthetic that makes this drink so irresistible. It’s all about that perfect presentation paired with rich flavors.

How to Serve Tiramisu Cold Brew

Garnishes

Simple yet effective garnishes make all the difference in elevating your Tiramisu Cold Brew. A final dusting of cocoa powder intensifies the chocolate aroma and adds a touch of rustic charm. For a bit of extra flair, chocolate shavings or small curls of dark chocolate bring texture and enhance the drink’s appeal.

Side Dishes

This drink pairs beautifully with light pastries or biscotti, particularly almond or chocolate varieties that complement the coffee and mascarpone foam. Fresh fruit like berries also works well if you want a refreshing balance to the richness, making your treat feel even more special and complete.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Tiramisu Cold Brew in clear glass mugs to showcase those enticing layers. For a fancy touch, use a metal straw or a small wooden spoon on the side to scoop the heavenly foam. You can also jazz it up with a cinnamon stick or a sprig of fresh mint for extra fragrance and color contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Since the foam is delicate, it’s best to store the coffee and foam separately if possible, then reassemble just before serving to maintain that signature texture.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for Tiramisu Cold Brew due to the cream and mascarpone components, which can separate and lose their smoothness once thawed. For the freshest experience, enjoy it fresh or within a day of preparation.

Reheating

This drink is best enjoyed cold, so reheating is not advised. If you want a warm tiramisu-inspired coffee, try a hot tiramisu latte recipe instead. With cold brew, the charm is in its refreshing chill and creamy foam top.

FAQs

Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of cold brew?

While regular brewed coffee can be used, cold brew provides a smoother, less acidic profile that pairs perfectly with the creamy tiramisu foam. If you prefer a less bitter taste and a more velvety mouthfeel, cold brew is the best choice.

Is mascarpone cheese necessary for the foam?

Mascarpone is key for authentic tiramisu flavor and creaminess. You can substitute with cream cheese, but the texture and taste will be a bit tangier and less traditional. For the true Tiramisu Cold Brew experience, mascarpone is worth the extra step.

How sweet is the drink?

The drink is mildly sweet thanks to the sweetened condensed milk in the foam. If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can add a bit more, but be careful not to overpower the delicate coffee balance.

Can I make this vegan or dairy-free?

To create a vegan version, try using coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a vegan mascarpone substitute or blended cashews for creaminess. Sweetened condensed coconut milk can replace regular condensed milk. The flavor will shift slightly but can still be delicious!

What’s the best time to enjoy Tiramisu Cold Brew?

This drink is perfect anytime you crave a coffee treat with dessert flair—be it a luxurious morning boost, an afternoon delight, or even an after-dinner indulgence when you want something cool and satisfying without heaviness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Tiramisu Cold Brew—it’s a delightful dance of rich coffee, sweet creaminess, and a dusting of chocolate that feels like a hug in a glass. It’s easy to make but feels decadent and thoughtfully crafted, perfect for treating yourself or sharing with friends. Dive in, savor each sip, and let this beautiful coffee creation brighten your day!