Save
This matcha tiramisu transforms the classic Italian dessert into a vibrant and elegant treat perfect for impressing at home. The subtle bitterness of matcha beautifully balances the creamy mascarpone, making it a refreshing choice for afternoon tea or a special night in.
I first experimented with this after craving tiramisu but wanting something lighter. It quickly became my favorite dessert to make when friends come over.
Ingredients
- Egg yolks: create a rich custard base use fresh eggs for best flavor
- Granulated sugar: sweetens gently use fine sugar for smooth mixing
- Mascarpone cheese: lends richness and creaminess room temperature ensures smooth blending
- Whipping cream: whipped medium peak gives the dessert an airy texture
- Matcha powder: provides the signature flavor and green color sift to avoid lumps and buy ceremonial grade for vibrant taste
- Vanilla extract: rounds the flavor with warm notes choose pure vanilla for best aroma
- Ladyfingers: form the soakable layers opt for fresh not too dry ones to hold shape without sogginess
- Hot water: helps dissolve the matcha and sugar for the soaking liquid use just boiled water for best extraction
Instructions
- Build The Matcha Mascarpone Cream:
- Fill a pot with about one inch of water and bring to a boil. In a bowl that fits on top without touching the water, whisk egg yolks and sugar together. Remove pot from heat and place the bowl on top to create a double boiler. Whisk constantly for about five minutes until the mixture is pale and the sugar dissolves fully. Remove bowl and quickly add mascarpone cheese, whisking until silky smooth. Set aside.
- Whip The Cream With Matcha:
- In a separate bowl, combine whipping cream, sifted matcha powder, and vanilla extract. Use an electric hand mixer with a whisk attachment to whip until medium peaks form. The cream should hold shape softly but not be stiff.
- Fold The Cream Into Mascarpone:
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture using a spatula. Fold carefully until no streaks remain to maintain lightness. Set aside.
- Prepare The Matcha Soak:
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together matcha powder, sugar, and hot water until slightly frothy.
- Layer The Ladyfingers And Cream:
- Dip each ladyfinger very briefly in the matcha soak coating both sides but not letting it absorb completely, to prevent soggy texture. Arrange a flat layer in your serving dish. Spoon a generous layer of mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers and spread evenly. Repeat with another soaked ladyfinger layer and mascarpone cream.
- Chill And Set:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight. This allows the cream to firm and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Finish And Serve:
- Just before serving sprinkle matcha powder over the top for an attractive and flavorful finish.
My favorite ingredient here is the matcha powder. Its depth and earthiness bring a calm sophistication to this dessert. I remember sharing this with my family on a quiet Sunday when we all slowed down and savored every bite. It felt like a small ceremony each time.
Storage tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to three days but is best eaten within two for freshness.
Ingredient swaps
You can replace mascarpone with cream cheese mixed with a little heavy cream for a budget friendly option but the texture will be slightly less silky. Use coconut cream and dairy free cream cheese for a vegan version.
Serving ideas
Serve with fresh berries or a dusting of toasted sesame seeds for added texture. Green tea ice cream is a perfect pairing for an extra matcha boost.
This tiramisu is best enjoyed after patience and care have brought its flavors together for a truly elegant dessert.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How do I prevent ladyfingers from becoming soggy?
Dip ladyfingers briefly in the matcha soak, allowing excess liquid to drip off immediately before layering. Avoid soaking completely to maintain texture.
- → Can I substitute mascarpone cheese?
Mascarpone's creamy, slightly sweet flavor is key, but cream cheese blended with heavy cream can be an alternative, though the texture may differ slightly.
- → What is the best way to whisk the egg yolks and sugar?
Use a double boiler method, whisking constantly over simmering water until the mixture turns pale and smooth, ensuring sugar dissolves fully and yolks thicken gently.
- → How long should the dessert chill?
Chilling for at least 4 hours allows flavors to meld and the cream to firm up properly for a silky texture and clean slices.
- → What role does matcha powder play in this dessert?
Matcha imparts a vibrant green color and earthy, slightly bittersweet taste that balances the creamy richness of mascarpone and whipped cream.