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Say hello to your new favorite coffee treat: Tiramisu Cold Brew. Imagine the flavors of creamy mascarpone, sweet vanilla, and cocoa all in a chilled, velvety coffee — no heavy dessert required. Perfect for warm mornings, afternoon pick-me-ups, or anytime you want a taste of tiramisu without the fuss or alcohol.
This article takes you through everything — from making a smooth cold brew base to whipping up mascarpone foam, layering with precision, and customizing for health or diet needs. It’s entirely free of pork, alcohol, and unnecessary ingredients — just pure indulgent flavors.
What Is Tiramisu Cold Brew?
A Tiramisu Cold Brew is a layered iced coffee drink inspired by the Italian classic. It features:
A strong and smooth cold brew coffee base
A fluffy, creamy topping made with mascarpone and cold foam
A final dusting of cocoa powder or chocolate to evoke the tiramisu essence
It’s like drinking the dessert — minus the ladyfingers, but all of the flavor and charm.
Why You’ll Love It
Dessert in a Glass, No Bake Required
Savor creamy tiramisu flavors without spoons or layers of cake.
Light Yet Luxurious
No heavy cream, just airy mascarpone foam that remains light on the palate.
Versatile & Customizable
Adjust sweetness, milk of choice, coffee strength — perfect from vegan to low-sugar versions.
Elegant & Appealing
Whether you’re serving brunch guests or photographing for your blog, this drink looks as good as it tastes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cold Brew Base
1½ cups cold brew coffee (homemade or store-bought)
½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
For the Tiramisu-Style Cream Foam
¼ cup heavy cream or coconut cream
2 tbsp mascarpone cheese (or dairy-free cream cheese substitute)
1 tbsp sweetened condensed milk or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
½ tsp vanilla extract
For Garnish
Cocoa powder (for dusting)
Chocolate shavings or a ladyfinger cookie (optional for presentation)
How to Make Tiramisu Cold Brew
Step 1 — Prepare & Chill the Base
Use cold brew coffee for its smooth, low-acid character. Chill properly to keep the drink bracingly cool.
Step 2 — Whip the Mascarpone Foam
In a chilled bowl, whisk together your cream (dairy or non-dairy), mascarpone, sweetener, and vanilla until you get a velvety, lightly thickened foam. It should be spreadable but airy.
Step 3 — Assemble the Drink
Fill a tall glass with ice and pour in the cold brew. Gently layer the mascarpone foam on top—let gravity do the work for a beautiful separation.
Step 4 — Garnish & Serve
Dust the creamy layer with cocoa powder. Add chocolate shavings or even a mini ladyfinger for added flair. Serve immediately, with a side stir recommended.
Expert Tips for a Perfect Pour
Chill all ingredients — cold cream foams better, and the drink stays crisp longer.
Use espresso brew or concentrate for stronger flavor in lighter drinks.
Add the foam slowly for those beautiful drink layers.
Adjust texture by thinning your foam with a splash of plant-based milk if it’s too stiff.
Flavor Variations to Explore
Classic Tiramisu
Stick to the traditional mascarpone foam and cocoa topping.
Vegan-Friendly
Swap mascarpone and cream for coconut cream and vegan “cream cheese”—still creamy and luxurious.
Mocha
Add a dash of cocoa powder to the cold brew or swirl in chocolate syrup before layering the foam.
Sweetly Spiced
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the foam for cozy warmth.
Citrus Bright
Mix a drop of orange zest into the foam for a fresh, zesty twist.
Storage & Prep Advice
Prepare in advance: Whip the mascarpone foam and store in the fridge for up to 2 days—stir before use.
Keep cold brew on hand: It lasts up to a week chilled.
Best enjoyed fresh: Serve immediately for peak layered aesthetics and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need to use alcohol like marsala or Kahlúa?
No—this recipe skips all alcohol, making it lighter and suitable for all.
Q: Can I use broth or tea?
This is coffee specific, but experiments like tea foam drinks could be delicious in their own right!
Q: How sweet is it?
You decide—sweetened condensed milk adds gentle sweetness. You can reduce or omit.
Q: What if cream is too heavy?
Try blending cream with a little plant milk or go for coconut cream for lighter texture and flavor.
Q: Best cold brew method?
Use a coarse coffee to water ratio, steep for 12–24 hrs in cold water, and filter—classic and smooth.
Final Thoughts
Your new go-to drink for summer or any season, Tiramisu Cold Brew delivers creamy richness with coffee kick—minus artificial or unwanted ingredients. Smooth, visually appealing, and versatile enough to adapt to various diets—this drink earns its place from brunch menus to cozy personal indulgence.
