Decadent chocolate ricotta tiramisu is a luxurious twist on the classic Italian dessert. This version layers rich chocolate, creamy ricotta, and espresso-soaked ladyfingers for a heavenly combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for special occasions or a romantic treat, this no-bake dessert is as indulgent as it is easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Twist: The use of ricotta cheese adds a light, creamy texture.
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Layers of chocolate ganache and cocoa take this tiramisu to the next level.
- No-Bake Dessert: Ideal for when you want an impressive dessert without turning on the oven.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping in advance, as it tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Layers:
- Ladyfingers (savoiardi)
- Strong brewed espresso (cooled)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
For the Ricotta Cream:
- Ricotta cheese (smooth and creamy)
- Mascarpone cheese
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips or dark chocolate
- Heavy cream
Optional Toppings:
- Shaved chocolate or chocolate curls
- Whipped cream
Directions
- Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
- In a heatproof bowl, combine chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Make the Ricotta Cream:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Chill for 10-15 minutes.
- Assemble the Tiramisu:
- Lightly dip ladyfingers into the cooled espresso and arrange them in a single layer in a serving dish.
- Spread half of the ricotta cream evenly over the ladyfingers. Drizzle half of the chocolate ganache over the cream layer and dust with cocoa powder.
- Repeat with another layer of espresso-dipped ladyfingers, ricotta cream, chocolate ganache, and cocoa powder.
- Chill:
- Cover the tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.
- Serve:
- Garnish with shaved chocolate or whipped cream, slice, and serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 8-10
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Variations
- Liqueur-Infused: Add a splash of coffee liqueur or amaretto to the espresso for a boozy kick.
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle crushed hazelnuts or almonds between the layers for added crunch.
- Low-Sugar: Use sugar-free sweeteners and dark chocolate to reduce sweetness.
- Fruit Accent: Add a layer of fresh raspberries or strawberries for a fruity twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the assembled tiramisu (without toppings) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
- Reheating: Serve cold; tiramisu does not require reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
Yes, cream cheese is a good substitute, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
2. Can I skip the chocolate ganache?
You can skip it, but the ganache adds richness. Alternatively, use melted chocolate.
3. Do I have to use espresso?
No, you can substitute espresso with strong black coffee or decaffeinated coffee.
4. Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free ricotta, mascarpone, and chocolate alternatives.
5. How do I prevent the ladyfingers from getting soggy?
Dip the ladyfingers quickly into the espresso to prevent oversaturation.
6. Can I use cocoa powder instead of ganache?
Yes, cocoa powder can replace ganache, but the dessert will be less rich.
7. What size dish works best for this recipe?
An 8×8-inch square dish or a similar-sized trifle dish works well.
8. Can I assemble this in individual portions?
Yes, layer the ingredients in small glasses or ramekins for individual servings.
9. What type of chocolate is best for the ganache?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate is ideal for a balanced flavor.
10. How long should I chill the tiramisu?
Chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for optimal flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Decadent chocolate ricotta tiramisu is an elevated version of a beloved classic, featuring creamy layers, rich chocolate, and bold espresso flavor. This no-bake dessert is simple yet elegant, making it perfect for entertaining or indulging at home. Prepare it ahead, serve it chilled, and enjoy a luxurious treat that melts in your mouth!
Print
Decadent Chocolate Ricotta Tiramisu
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A rich twist on the classic Italian dessert, this tiramisu layers velvety chocolate ricotta cream with coffee-soaked ladyfingers. It’s indulgent, easy to make, and perfect for chocolate lovers!
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Ricotta Cream:
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese (preferably whole milk, drained if watery)
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate, finely grated or melted (optional, for extra richness)
For the Coffee Soak:
- 1 1/2 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Layers:
- 24–28 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder, for dusting
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate, shaved or grated (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the chocolate ricotta cream:- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- If desired, fold in the grated or melted dark chocolate for extra depth of flavor. Set aside.
- Make the coffee soak:
- In a shallow dish, mix the brewed coffee, coffee liqueur (if using), and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Assemble the tiramisu:
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee soak, making sure not to oversaturate. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of an 8×8-inch or similar-sized dish.
- Spread half of the chocolate ricotta cream evenly over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat with another layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and the remaining chocolate ricotta cream.
- Chill and garnish:
- Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder and garnish with shaved dark chocolate.
- Serve:
- Slice into squares or spoon into individual servings. Pair with a cup of espresso or your favorite dessert wine.
Notes
- For an extra chocolate kick, drizzle the coffee-soaked ladyfingers with chocolate syrup before adding the cream.
- If ricotta is too grainy, blend it in a food processor before mixing for a smoother texture.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.