Tiramisu Crepe Cake

This tiramisu crepe cake brings together delicate layers of tender crepes with the creamy richness of mascarpone and the bold flavor of espresso. It is a perfect dessert for when you want something impressive yet approachable for home cooking. The result is a silky, flavorful cake that feels special but is surprisingly simple to prepare.

I first made this after craving tiramisu but only had crepe ingredients in my kitchen. It quickly became a favorite celebration dessert that friends always ask for.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: forms a delicate, tender crepe base. Choose a finely milled flour for best texture
• Whole milk: gives the crepes richness and helps create a pliable, soft batter
• Eggs: add needed structure and a gentle richness so the crepes don’t tear when folding
• Melted butter: lends a subtle depth of flavor and keeps the crepes from sticking during cooking
• Salt: is essential to balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors
• Granulated sugar: lightly sweetens the crepes but does not overpower
• Vanilla extract: adds warm aromatic notes elevating both crepes and cream
• Mascarpone cheese: is the key to authentic tiramisu flavor with its creamy richness
• Heavy cream: whipped to soft peaks adds airiness and helps lighten the filling
• Powdered sugar: sweetens the mascarpone cream delicately without graininess
• Espresso or strong brewed coffee: soaks into each crepe bringing that signature bold bitterness that contrasts the sweet cream
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: dusted on top completes the look and adds mild chocolate bitterness

Instructions

Preheat Your Equipment:

Heat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with butter or oil to prevent sticking but keep the crepes light

Combine Ingredients:

Whisk or blend together flour milk eggs sugar melted butter vanilla and salt until the batter is completely smooth. It is important to let it rest for 30 minutes so the flour hydrates fully resulting in tender crepes

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:

Pour about a quarter cup batter into your skillet swirling to coat evenly and create a thin crepe. Cook about one to two minutes per side until just lightly golden. Use parchment paper between stacked crepes to keep them from sticking and allow them to cool fully before layering

Assemble the Dish:

Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form while in another bowl combine mascarpone powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture reserving half a cup for the final topping

Cook to Perfection:

Lay one crepe flat brush lightly with espresso then spread a thin layer of the mascarpone filling over it. Repeat layering until all crepes and filling are used stacking carefully for even layers. Rest between layers gives time for moisture to absorb creating a cohesive cake

Finishing Touches:

Spread reserved mascarpone cream evenly on top smoothing the edges. Cover the cake tightly and chill for at least four hours ideally overnight so flavors meld and set beautifully

Serve and Enjoy:

Right before serving dust the cake generously with cocoa powder for that classic tiramisu look. Use a very sharp knife to slice neat portions and enjoy a delicate dessert with layers of flavor and texture

Mascarpone remains my favorite ingredient because of its rich yet mild flavor lending a luxurious mouthfeel. Sharing this cake with family during holidays has become a special tradition filled with smiles and sweet cravings.

Storage Tips

Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep it tightly sealed to prevent the crepes from drying out. For best flavor serve slightly chilled but not straight from the fridge for the crepes and cream to soften.

Ingredient Swaps

You can try substituting the espresso with strong brewed tea like black or chicory for different flavors. For a lighter filling replace half the mascarpone with ricotta cheese. Use gluten free flour blends to make this recipe gluten free but expect slightly different texture in crepes.

Serving Ideas

Serve slices with fresh berries for a pop of color and tartness. A drizzle of chocolate sauce alongside or a dusting of finely chopped toasted nuts elevates the presentation. This cake is stunning on its own but pairs beautifully with a small scoop of vanilla gelato.

This tiramisu crepe cake is a delightful treat that impresses guests with its elegant layers and rich flavor. Be sure to allow proper chilling time for the best texture and taste.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of flour is best for the crepes?

All-purpose flour works best, providing a light yet sturdy batter that cooks into tender crepes without being too dense.

→ How do I prevent the crepes from sticking to the pan?

Lightly grease a non-stick skillet or crepe pan with butter or oil before cooking each crepe to ensure easy flipping and removal.

→ Can I substitute the espresso for another liquid?

Strong brewed coffee is a good alternative to espresso, offering a similar depth of flavor for soaking the crepes.

→ How should the mascarpone cream be prepared?

Whip heavy cream to soft peaks, then gently fold it into mascarpone blended with powdered sugar and vanilla for a smooth, airy filling.

→ Is it necessary to chill the layered dessert?

Yes, chilling for at least 4 hours allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall texture.

→ What is the best way to serve the crepe stack?

Dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder and slice carefully with a sharp knife to maintain neat layers when serving.