Irresistible Gluten-Free Tiramisu

Welcome to the ultimate guide for creating an exquisite Gluten-Free Tiramisu that promises all the traditional charm and indulgent flavors of the beloved Italian classic, without any gluten. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a sophisticated treat, this recipe is designed to impress even the most discerning palates. Utilizing readily available Schar gluten-free ladyfingers, this dessert ensures that everyone at your table can enjoy a slice of pure bliss, making it perfect for entertaining guests with dietary sensitivities. Prepare to be amazed as the rich, creamy, coffee-infused layers melt in your mouth, delivering an authentic tiramisu experience so delightful, no one will even guess it’s gluten-free!

Slice of tiramisu on a plate with a spoon where a spoonful has just been taken out of the corner.

Contents

Why This Gluten-Free Tiramisu Recipe Stands Out

Crafting a truly exceptional tiramisu can often feel like a culinary challenge, but this recipe simplifies the process without compromising on flavor or texture. We’ve meticulously developed and tested this version to ensure it’s not just good, but outstanding. Here’s what makes our easy gluten-free tiramisu a must-try:

Effortlessly Elegant: Despite its sophisticated appearance, this dessert requires only 9 essential, easy-to-find ingredients. This makes assembly straightforward, leaving you more time to enjoy your event and less time stressing in the kitchen.
Perfectly Balanced Flavors: We’ve conducted extensive testing with various proportions of the espresso and liqueur mixture. This guarantees that your gluten-free ladyfingers will be perfectly soaked every time – moist and flavorful, never soggy, providing the ideal foundation for the rich mascarpone cream.
Ideal for Planning Ahead: Tiramisu is one of those magical desserts that actually improves with time. Preparing it in advance not only saves you precious time on the day of your gathering but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more harmonious and decadent experience for your guests.
Inclusive Indulgence: Catering to gluten-sensitive guests doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or fun. This recipe offers a delicious solution that everyone, regardless of dietary needs, will thoroughly enjoy. It’s a testament to how incredible gluten-free baking can be, making it a stellar choice for any celebration.

Essential Ingredients for an Authentic Gluten-Free Tiramisu

The magic of tiramisu lies in the quality and precise combination of its core ingredients. While this is a gluten-free version, the principles for achieving that classic taste and texture remain the same. Understanding each component helps you appreciate the symphony of flavors in every delightful bite.

Schar Gluten-Free Ladyfingers: These are the unsung heroes of our gluten-free tiramisu. Schar brand ladyfingers are specifically designed to mimic the texture and absorbency of traditional Italian savoiardi biscuits, ensuring they soak up the coffee mixture beautifully without crumbling. Their widespread availability makes this recipe incredibly accessible for home bakers.
Rich Espresso or Strong Coffee: The very soul of tiramisu. A high-quality, freshly brewed espresso or a very strong dark roast coffee is absolutely crucial. It imparts that characteristic robust, slightly bitter note that perfectly contrasts with the sweet, creamy layers. Ensure it’s brewed strong and allowed to cool completely before you begin dipping the ladyfingers.
Mascarpone Cheese: This luxurious Italian cream cheese is the heart of the tiramisu’s velvety cream. Its remarkably high fat content and exceptionally smooth texture provide unparalleled richness and a decadent mouthfeel, creating a truly unforgettable experience. For best results, ensure it’s at room temperature to achieve a silky-smooth blend.
Large Egg Yolks & Granulated Sugar: These two form the essential base of the creamy zabaglione, a classic Italian custard that adds incredible structure, stability, and an unparalleled richness to the mascarpone mixture. The careful process of whipping them together until they are pale yellow and significantly thickened is a key step to achieve that airy, luxurious cream.
Heavy Cream: When whipped to perfection, heavy cream lightens the mascarpone mixture, adding an ethereal fluffiness and delicate texture that perfectly balances the inherent richness and density of the mascarpone cheese. It helps create those delightful, soft peaks that give the tiramisu its signature lightness.
Amaretto or Your Preferred Liqueur: This ingredient adds a wonderful depth of flavor, complexity, and a subtle boozy kick that is characteristic of traditional tiramisu. Amaretto’s distinct almond notes complement the coffee beautifully, but as you’ll discover in our tips, this component is highly customizable to your taste.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: A final, generous dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder is not merely for decoration; it adds a touch of bittersweetness and a hint of chocolate aroma that cuts through the richness of the cream, providing an appealing finish and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Bittersweet Chocolate (Optional): For an extra touch of elegance, texture, and intensified chocolate flavor, finely shaved or grated bittersweet chocolate adds a delightful crunch and a sophisticated finish, making each bite even more special.

Expert Tips for Crafting the Perfect Gluten-Free Tiramisu

Achieving tiramisu perfection, especially with a gluten-free twist, comes down to a few key techniques, ingredient considerations, and personalization options. Heed these expert tips to elevate your homemade dessert from simply delicious to truly unforgettable and restaurant-worthy.

Personalize Your Liqueur Choice: While amaretto offers a delightful almond flavor that pairs wonderfully with coffee and is a classic choice, feel free to make this tiramisu truly your own by experimenting. You can easily switch it out for other rich spirits like coffee liqueur for an intensified coffee experience, cognac or brandy for a sophisticated warmth and fruitiness, Marsala wine for a more traditional Italian touch, or even dark rum for a bolder, sweeter kick. Each choice will subtly alter the overall flavor profile, allowing you to discover your absolute favorite rendition.
Homemade Ladyfingers Option: If high-quality Schar gluten-free ladyfingers aren’t readily available in your local grocery store, or if you simply relish the satisfaction and challenge of baking from scratch, you can always make your own gluten-free ladyfingers. This option offers complete control over the texture, sweetness, and specific ingredients, and while it adds an extra step, the fresh flavor is incredibly rewarding and often worth the effort.
Craft an Alcohol-Free Version: To make this tiramisu suitable for all ages, family gatherings, or for those who prefer to abstain from alcohol, simply replace the specified amount of liqueur with an equal measure of additional, cooled espresso or strong coffee. You can also enhance the depth of flavor by adding a splash of vanilla extract, a teaspoon of almond extract, or a non-alcoholic coffee syrup. The result will still be incredibly flavorful and satisfying for everyone.
The Golden Rule of Dipping: Gluten-free ladyfingers, much like their traditional counterparts, are exceptionally absorbent. The absolute key to avoiding a soggy, disappointing tiramisu is quick and deliberate dipping. A brief, almost instantaneous dip (just a second or two per side) in the espresso mixture is typically sufficient. They should be just moistened and flavored, not saturated or left to sit in the liquid for too long, which will cause them to break apart.
Chill Time is Crucial: While 4 hours is the minimum recommended chilling time to allow the dessert to set, we strongly advise you to aim for 24 hours if your schedule allows. This extended period in the refrigerator is absolutely essential for the magic to happen. It allows all the distinct flavors to fully meld and harmonize, the ladyfingers to soften perfectly, and the mascarpone cream to set completely, resulting in a cohesive, truly sublime, and structurally sound dessert.
Achieving the Perfect Cream Consistency: When whipping the egg yolks and sugar, ensure they reach a very pale yellow, thick, and ribbon-like consistency – this creates the necessary structure. For the heavy cream, whip it only until soft peaks form before gently incorporating the room-temperature mascarpone. Be very careful not to over-whip any of the components, as over-beating mascarpone can lead to a grainy or curdled texture, and over-whipping cream makes it stiff. The final combined cream should be soft, airy, smoothly spreadable, and hold its shape gracefully.

Overhead view of a gluten free tiramisu in a white baking dish with biscuits and dark chocolate squares scattered around.

Side on view of slices of tiramisu in the pan with one missing to show the layers of the coffee chocolate dessert.

Serving and Storing Your Gluten-Free Tiramisu Masterpiece

Once your glorious gluten-free tiramisu has properly chilled and its complex flavors have harmonized into a symphony of taste, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Proper handling and presentation ensure every slice is as perfect and visually appealing as you painstakingly envisioned.

Presentation Matters: Just before bringing your tiramisu to the table, give it a final, even dusting of fresh unsweetened cocoa powder. Use a fine-mesh sieve for the best, most elegant coverage. For an extra touch of sophistication and an appealing texture, use a vegetable peeler or microplane to gently shave delicate curls of bittersweet chocolate directly over the top. The striking contrast of the dark chocolate against the pale, creamy layers is visually stunning and incredibly inviting.
Slice or Scoop with Ease: Tiramisu is wonderfully versatile in how it can be served. If you’ve prepared it in a rectangular or square baking dish, it can be beautifully sliced into neat squares or rectangles. If you opted for a round cake pan or individual serving glasses, it can be elegantly scooped for a rustic yet charming presentation. For the cleanest cuts when slicing, we recommend dipping your knife in warm water and wiping it clean between each cut.
Optimal Serving Temperature: Always serve tiramisu well-chilled, straight from the refrigerator. This ensures that the luxurious mascarpone cream is firm and holds its shape beautifully, and that all the infused flavors are at their absolute peak intensity, providing the most refreshing and decadent experience.
Storing Leftovers: Should you be fortunate enough to have any leftover tiramisu, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. This is crucial to prevent it from absorbing any unwanted refrigerator odors and to maintain its delightful freshness. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Many connoisseurs even find that the flavors of tiramisu deepen and actually improve on the second day, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert!
Freezing (Generally Not Recommended): While some desserts are freezer-friendly, tiramisu, with its delicate cream and coffee-soaked ladyfingers, does not typically fare well after freezing and thawing. The texture of the mascarpone cream can significantly change, often becoming grainy or separating upon thawing, and the ladyfingers can become overly soft or mushy. For the best experience, tiramisu is truly best enjoyed fresh and within a few days of its preparation.

More Delicious Gluten-Free Desserts You’ll Love

If you’ve enjoyed the indulgent flavors and the relative ease of preparing this gluten-free tiramisu, then you’re in for a treat! We encourage you to explore our other fantastic gluten-free dessert recipes, each thoughtfully designed to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising on dietary needs. Every recipe in our collection is crafted for maximum flavor, straightforward preparation, and ensures delightful, guilt-free results every time. Expand your gluten-free baking repertoire today!

Best Gluten Free Apple Cake Recipe – A comforting classic, boasting tender apples and warm spices, perfect for any season.
3-Ingredient Keto Chocolate Mousse – Decadently rich, surprisingly simple to prepare, and a fantastic option for a low-carb indulgence.
Best Vegan Coffee Cake Recipe – A moist, flavorful, and crumbly-topped treat that’s completely plant-based and utterly delicious.
Gluten Free Gingerbread Cake Recipe – A wonderfully festive cake, infused with spicy, warm ginger and molasses, perfect for holiday celebrations.
Best Gluten Free Lemon Cake Recipe – Zesty, refreshing, and incredibly moist, an ideal spring or summer dessert that brightens any table.
Healthy Low Carb Creme Brûlée – A sophisticated and elegant dessert that fits effortlessly into a low-carb or keto lifestyle, offering classic flavor without the sugar.

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Gluten-Free Tiramisu

Prep:

40 minutes

Chilling time:

4 hours

Total:

4 hours

40 minutes

This incredibly easy Gluten-Free Tiramisu recipe captures the essence of the classic Italian dessert. It’s perfect for entertaining, as it can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the rich flavors of coffee, mascarpone, and your chosen liqueur to beautifully meld. Whether you opt for amaretto, coffee liqueur, or a non-alcoholic variation, this tiramisu is a crowd-pleaser that caters to all, making it an ideal choice for any gathering. Its luxurious layers and exquisite taste will surely make it a new favorite.

Cheryl Malik

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Ingredients

For the Luxurious Mascarpone Cream

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4 large egg yolks
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½ cup granulated sugar divided
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¾ cup heavy cream (ensure it’s very cold for best whipping)
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1 cup mascarpone 8 ounces, at room temperature for smooth blending

For Assembly and Flavor

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3 cups espresso or VERY strong coffee, cooled completely
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¼ cup amaretto coffee liqueur, cognac, Marsala, rum, or additional espresso for an alcohol-free version
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approx 24 Schar gluten-free ladyfingers (or your favorite brand, or homemade GF ladyfingers)
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2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
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1 to 2 ounces bittersweet chocolate for shaving, optional (adds a beautiful finish)

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Equipment You’ll Need

Electric mixer (stand mixer with whisk attachment or handheld electric mixer)
Two large mixing bowls
Shallow bowl for dipping
2-quart baking dish (an 8×8-inch square dish, or a 9-inch round cake pan would also work perfectly here)
Fine-mesh sieve (for dusting cocoa powder)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Part 1: Prepare the Silky Mascarpone Cream

In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer (either a stand mixer with a whisk attachment or a handheld electric mixer), whip together the egg yolks and ¼ cup of the granulated sugar. Continue to whip on medium-high speed until the mixture becomes very pale yellow, thick, and has approximately tripled in volume. When you lift the beaters or whisk, a “ribbon” of the mixture should slowly fall back into the bowl and hold its shape for a few seconds before dissolving. Set this bowl aside.
In a separate medium-sized bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with the remaining ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Beat until soft peaks form, meaning the cream holds its shape but the tips still curl slightly. Once soft peaks are achieved, add the room temperature mascarpone cheese to the whipped cream. Continue whipping briefly until the mixture is well combined, light, soft, and spreadable, forming medium peaks. Be careful not to overmix, as mascarpone can curdle if beaten too long.
Gently and carefully fold the mascarpone-whipped cream mixture into the sweetened egg yolks using a spatula. Use a light hand to preserve the airiness. Continue folding until both mixtures are thoroughly combined and no streaks remain, resulting in a smooth, luxurious tiramisu cream.

Part 2: Assembly of Your Gluten-Free Tiramisu

In a shallow bowl, combine the cooled espresso (or strong coffee) and your chosen liqueur (amaretto, coffee liqueur, etc., or additional espresso for an alcohol-free version). Stir gently to mix. Set this dipping mixture aside.
Prepare your chosen baking dish (a 2-quart baking dish, 8×8-inch square, or 9-inch round cake pan works well). Using a fine-mesh sieve, lightly dust the bottom of the dish with 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder. This initial layer prevents sticking and adds an extra layer of chocolatey flavor.
Working swiftly, take one Schar gluten-free ladyfinger at a time and quickly dip it into the espresso-liqueur mixture. These ladyfingers are quite porous and will become soggy or fall apart if left in the liquid for too long – a quick flip is all you need. Place the dipped ladyfingers, rounded side up, at the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Continue this process, using roughly half of your ladyfingers, arranging them to form an even layer. Don’t worry if there are small gaps; you can break some ladyfingers in half to fill in any larger, obvious spaces. A little bit of space in between is perfectly acceptable.
Once the first layer of dipped ladyfingers is complete, carefully spread half of the prepared mascarpone cream mixture evenly over them. Gently smooth it out with a spatula to create a uniform layer.
Repeat the layering process: dip the remaining ladyfingers in the espresso mixture and arrange them over the first cream layer. Then, top with the remaining half of the mascarpone cream, spreading it smoothly to cover all the ladyfingers.
For the final touch, dust the entire top layer of the tiramisu with the remaining 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder using your fine-mesh sieve. This creates a beautiful, even finish. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and transfer it to the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 4 hours. For the absolute best flavor and texture, we highly recommend chilling for 24 hours – this allows all the flavors to deepen and the dessert to fully set.
Just before serving, if desired, garnish with shaved or finely grated bittersweet chocolate. Then, slice or scoop to serve this incredible gluten-free tiramisu to your delighted guests!

Chef’s Notes & Variations

Liqueur Customization: We find amaretto creates a wonderfully classic taste, but don’t hesitate to personalize your tiramisu! You can easily switch it out for coffee liqueur to amplify the coffee notes, cognac or brandy for a rich, warm essence, traditional Marsala wine, or even rum for a different sweet depth.
DIY Ladyfingers: If commercially available gluten-free ladyfingers are hard to find, or if you prefer a truly homemade touch, you can always make your own gluten-free ladyfingers from scratch. This opens up even more possibilities for customization.
Alcohol-Free Option: To ensure everyone can enjoy this dessert, simply make it alcohol-free by replacing the liqueur with an equivalent amount of additional cooled espresso or strong coffee. A dash of vanilla extract can also enhance the flavor profile.
Coffee Strength: The intensity of your espresso or strong coffee dramatically impacts the final flavor. For a bolder tiramisu, use a dark roast or brew your coffee extra strong.
Serving Suggestion: While delicious on its own, a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of extra whipped cream can make this dessert even more luxurious.

While we don’t have a video for this particular recipe just yet, imagine the silky cream and perfectly soaked ladyfingers coming together! We aim to add helpful video tutorials in the future.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Please note: The number of total servings shown is an approximation. Your actual number of servings may vary based on your preferred portion sizes and the shape/size of your baking dish.

Nutritional values provided are general guidelines only and reflect information for one serving using the listed ingredients. These values do not include any optional ingredients you might add. Please be aware that actual macros can vary slightly depending on the specific brands and types of ingredients you choose to use.

To accurately determine the weight of one serving for your specific preparation, follow the recipe instructions completely. Once the recipe is finished, weigh the entire prepared dish (excluding the weight of the container). Then, divide this total weight by your desired number of servings. The result will be the precise weight of one serving.