Eggnog Tiramisu Recipe

If you’re ready to take your holiday dessert game to the next level, this Eggnog Tiramisu Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine the creamy richness of traditional tiramisu enhanced with the warm, festive flavors of eggnog, nutmeg, and cinnamon—each bite a perfect balance of silky mascarpone, spiked coffee, and tender ladyfingers. It’s a show-stopping treat that’s surprisingly simple to prepare but absolutely unforgettable. Whether for Christmas dinner, a winter gathering, or just because, this recipe will fill your kitchen with joyous aromas and your guests with delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Eggnog Tiramisu Recipe calls for ingredients that are straightforward yet pivotal in crafting that luscious, velvety texture and those familiar festive flavors. Each item plays a key role—from the indulgent mascarpone cheese that adds creaminess to the bold coffee mixture that awakens the senses.

• 6 large egg yolks: Provide richness and help create that classic creamy custard base.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard perfectly without overpowering the spices.
• 16 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened: The heart of the tiramisu’s smooth, indulgent layer.
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, cold: Whipped for lightness and fluffy texture in the filling.
• 1 1/2 cups prepared eggnog, divided: Infuses the dessert with that unmistakable holiday spirit and subtle spice.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances every flavor with warm, sweet undertones.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, plus more for topping: Adds festive warmth and aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Complements nutmeg with a cozy spice note.
• Pinch kosher salt: Balances sweetness and brings out deeper flavors.
• 1 1/4 cups cooled strong brewed coffee or espresso: Gives the classic tiramisu coffee punch, essential for dipping ladyfingers.
• 1/4 cup dark rum, bourbon, or brandy (optional): Offers an adult-friendly kick and complexity.
• 40–45 crisp ladyfingers (savoiardi): The sponge base that absorbs those wonderful liquids while maintaining shape.
• 2–3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting: Finishes the dessert with that traditional bittersweet touch.
• White chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional): Adds delicate sweetness and an elegant visual flair.

How to Make Eggnog Tiramisu Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Egg Custard Base

Start by whisking together the egg yolks and granulated sugar over gently simmering water until the mixture becomes warm, slightly thickened, and glossy. This step is crucial because it gently cooks the eggs, ensuring safety and creating a smooth custard texture that forms the foundation of your tiramisu cream. Once done, let this cool a bit to prevent the mascarpone from curdling when added.

Step 2: Combine Mascarpone and Spices

Next, fold the softened mascarpone cheese into the cooled egg custard until completely smooth and silky. Then, stir in half a cup of prepared eggnog, the vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This mixture is where the classic tiramisu custard meets the warm holiday twist of eggnog and spices, creating that signature festive flavor your friends and family will rave about.

Step 3: Whip the Heavy Cream

In a separate chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until it holds medium-stiff peaks. The whipped cream adds incredible lightness to the tiramisu filling, balancing the richness of mascarpone and egg yolk mixture. Don’t overbeat it — you want it fluffy, but still smooth and billowy.

Step 4: Fold the Cream into the Eggnog Mascarpone Mixture

Gently fold the whipped cream into your eggnog mascarpone custard in two or three additions. Use a spatula and light folding motions to keep the air in the cream, resulting in a light yet decadent filling. This step ensures your tiramisu won’t be dense but beautifully fluffy and easy to slice.

Step 5: Prepare the Dipping Mixture

Mix the cooled coffee or espresso with the remaining eggnog and your choice of dark rum, bourbon, or brandy if using. Taste it and adjust to your liking – this is the soaking liquid where the ladyfingers will soak to bring in that rich, boozy kick balanced by eggnog’s creaminess. Make sure the mixture is at room temperature before using.

Step 6: Assemble the First Layer

Quickly dip ladyfingers, a few at a time, into the eggnog coffee mixture. Be careful not to soak them too long or they’ll turn mushy. Lay the dipped ladyfingers snugly in a 9×13-inch dish to create a sturdy base layer. This layer is the canvas that holds all the magic of flavors together.

Step 7: Spread the First Layer of Cream

Spread half of your luscious eggnog mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers, gently smoothing it edge to edge. This creamy layer adds richness and flavor contrast to the spongy base.

Step 8: Repeat the Dipping and Layering

Add a second layer of dipped ladyfingers over the cream, then cover with the remaining mascarpone cream. Smooth the surface carefully to create a beautiful finish—the creamy top will set into that signature tiramisu texture when chilled.

Step 9: Chill and Finish

Dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder and sprinkle a bit of extra nutmeg for aromatic holiday flair. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least six hours, ideally overnight. This resting period lets all the flavors meld beautifully and the dessert firm up just right.

Step 10: Serve with Style

Before serving, add another light dusting of cocoa and nutmeg. If you want to impress, sprinkle some white chocolate shavings over the top for a touch of elegance and sweetness that pairs perfectly with the eggnog-inspired cream. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

How to Serve Eggnog Tiramisu Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing your Eggnog Tiramisu Recipe is the final step to add visual and textural appeal. The classic dusting of unsweetened cocoa paired with a sprinkling of nutmeg instantly signals the holiday mood. For extra decadence, white chocolate shavings melt slowly on your tongue, complementing the velvety cream layers beautifully. Freshly grated nutmeg or a cinnamon stick on the side can also enhance the experience.

Side Dishes

This tiramisu already packs intense flavor and richness, so keep side dishes light and refreshing. A simple arugula or citrus salad can cleanse the palate between bites. If you want to keep the festive theme, pair it with spiced nuts or lightly salted biscotti to add crunch and variety. For drinks, anything from a warm mulled wine to a crisp sparkling cider pairs wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you feel like mixing up the presentation, individual parfait glasses are perfect for layering the tiramisu for a lovely single-serving dessert. You can also try assembling it in a trifle bowl for an impressive center piece a crowd can scoop from. Mini mason jars are great for gifting or for an elegant party offering. No matter how you serve it, this Eggnog Tiramisu Recipe will steal the show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Eggnog Tiramisu Recipe is best kept refrigerated and properly covered to maintain its creamy texture and prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors. Stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap, leftovers can keep beautifully for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy every delightful bite even after the event is over.

Freezing

Freezing this tiramisu isn’t highly recommended because the delicate textures of the mascarpone cream and soaked ladyfingers can become watery or grainy after thawing. However, if you must, freeze in small portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator overnight before serving, but note that the texture may differ slightly.

Reheating

This dessert is best served chilled and not warmed. Warming can cause the mascarpone mixture to separate and lose that perfect custardy delight. If you prefer a softer texture, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to take the chill off without compromising its charm.

FAQs

Can I make Eggnog Tiramisu Recipe without alcohol?

Absolutely! The rum, bourbon, or brandy in the coffee mixture is optional and can be omitted for a family-friendly version. The eggnog and coffee alone provide plenty of festive flavor and depth, so you won’t miss the alcohol.

Is it safe to use raw egg yolks in the recipe?

This recipe uses a gentle heat bath to cook the egg yolks with sugar until thickened and warm, which significantly reduces the risk by pasteurizing them. If you’re concerned, you can use pasteurized eggs or egg yolk substitutes available at the store.

Can I use store-bought eggnog, or should I make homemade?

Store-bought eggnog works beautifully in this recipe and is a convenient shortcut. However, homemade eggnog adds extra depth and freshness that enhance the tiramisu if you have the time to make it yourself.

What type of coffee is best for dipping ladyfingers?

Strong brewed coffee or espresso works best because it holds its flavor when combined with eggnog. Just make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before dipping ladyfingers to keep them from getting soggy too quickly.

How long should I chill the Eggnog Tiramisu Recipe before serving?

At least 6 hours in the refrigerator, but overnight is even better. This gives the flavors time to meld and the layers to set perfectly. Patience here really pays off!

Final Thoughts

There is nothing quite like sharing the joy of a decadent, festive dessert with loved ones, and this Eggnog Tiramisu Recipe is destined to become a holiday staple. It’s a delicious marriage of traditional Italian tiramisu with the sweet, spicy notes of eggnog that warms the heart and delights the palate. I encourage you to make it your own, experiment with flavors, and most importantly, enjoy every spoonful together. Happy holidays and happy baking!

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