A tiramisu latte is a delightful espresso-based drink that converts the rich flavors of tiramisu, an Italian dessert, into a coffee shop drink special. The espresso serves as the robust foundation of the latte, providing a strong and aromatic coffee base that complements the other components of the drink. A tiramisu-flavored syrup is included in the espresso base, infusing the drink with notes of cocoa, coffee, and a hint of sweetness. This decadent beverage features a creamy mascarpone topping, reminiscent of the dessert's signature ingredient. It's topped with a dusting of cocoa powder, adding a touch of bitterness and enhancing the overall flavor profile, and garnished with a ladyfinger, adding a visually appealing element that ties the drink to its Italian inspiration.
What Special Equipment Do I Need?
To make this tiramisu latte recipe, you will require a few pieces of essential coffee shop equipment.
- Espresso Machine - To pull the espresso shots, you will need to use an espresso machine. If you don't have an espresso machine, you can substitute a strong cup of coffee.
- Milk Frother - For a velvety foam, use a milk frother to heat the milk.
Tiramisu Latte Recipe
Topped with a protein-rich mascarpone cream, this tiramisu latte tastes like dessert in a cup while secretly being a trendy protein coffee. We recommend batch-making the mascarpone cream topping in advance so you can quickly assemble orders. Whether you're revamping your coffee shop menu or looking for a drink special for customers to enjoy after dinner in your restaurant, this tiramisu latte works as a seasonal special or a year-round staple.
Yield: 1 serving
Total Time: 5
Tiramisu Latte Ingredients
- 2 espresso shots
- 1 cup steamed milk (whole milk is best for creamy texture, but feel free to use your preferred milk alternative)
- 1 Tablespoon premade tiramisu syrup
Mascarpone Cream Topping Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon mascarpone cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 1/2 Tablespoon powdered sugar
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon rum extract
Garnishments
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- 1 ladyfinger (whole or broken into pieces)
Directions
- Brew espresso shots (or strong cup of coffee). Set aside.
- In small mixing bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. You want cream to be thick, but still spoonable. Add rum extract for boozy flavor or omit if preferred.
- Steam milk until it reaches creamy texture (150-160 degrees Fahrenheit).
- In latte mug, combine brewed espresso with premade tiramisu syrup. Stir well to combine.
- Slowly pour steamed milk over coffee mixture. Leave room for mascarpone cream topping.
- Spoon generous amount of mascarpone cream on top.
- Lightly dust mascarpone cream with unsweetened cocoa powder using sifter or small strainer.
- Place ladyfinger on mug's edge or break it into smaller pieces and use as a garnish.
Tiramisu Latte Recipe FAQ
Now that you know how to make a tiramisu latte, we answer some common questions people have about the dessert it's inspired by and its ingredients below.
What Is Tiramisu?
A hallmark of Italian cuisine, tiramisu is a classic dessert that has gained popularity worldwide for its rich and indulgent flavors. Traditionally, tiramisu is made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, a touch of rum, a creamy mixture of mascarpone cheese, eggs, and sugar, and dusted with cocoa powder. The combination of the espresso-soaked ladyfingers and the creamy mascarpone cheese creates a decadent and satisfying dessert. Tiramisu is known for its balance of flavors and textures, with the bitterness of the coffee, the sweetness of the cream, and the slight bitterness of the cocoa powder all coming together harmoniously. The dessert is typically served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together and creating a refreshing and satisfying end to a meal. The name "tiramisu" translates to "pick me up" or "cheer me up" in Italian, which perfectly describes the mood-lifting qualities of this delicious treat.
What Is Mascarpone?
Mascarpone is a creamy and rich Italian cheese known for its smooth texture and slightly sweet flavor. Made from cow's milk, mascarpone is a rich type of fresh cheese with a luxurious mouthfeel and velvety consistency. It is often compared to cream cheese, but mascarpone has a higher fat content and a milder taste. It can be used in a variety of recipes, from desserts like tiramisu to savory dishes like pasta sauces and risottos. Mascarpone is also a popular ingredient in many coffee beverages, adding a creamy and decadent touch to drinks like the tiramisu latte.
Does Tiramisu Have Alcohol?
Traditional tiramisu recipes typically include alcohol, most commonly Marsala wine or rum. The addition of alcohol serves to enhance the flavors of the dessert and adds a subtle complexity to the dish. In the case of our recipe for a tiramisu latte, which is inspired by the flavors of tiramisu, we offer the option to include rum extract. This ingredient provides a hint of that characteristic boozy flavor found in traditional tiramisu, without the need for actual alcohol.
Sip and savor la dolce vita with our tiramisu latte recipe. Since it already contains espresso, we converted this timeless Italian dessert into a decadent latte. Infused with tiramisu syrup and topped with mascarpone cream, this beverage is a warming drink during the holidays or served over ice during the summer months.
