How to Make a Tiramisu Latte (Easy & Quick Recipe)
One of my all-time favorite desserts is tiramisu. I could honestly spend the whole day eating it until I’m rolling across the kitchen floor. Probably not the best idea, but worth it.
So when I stumbled on a new tiramisu latte recipe on TikTok about a week ago, I had to give it a try. It looked creamy, coffee-forward, and… it didn’t come with quite as many calories as the real deal.
Naturally, I got a little creative. I played around with the ingredients, adjusted the sweetness, and before I knew it, I had something that tasted like dessert in a mug or glass, depending on the day.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to make a tiramisu latte at home, from the ingredients and step-by-step method to variations and tips for getting it right. So, guess what? Let’s start brewing!
What Is a Tiramisu Latte?
A tiramisu latte is exactly what it sounds like: a coffee inspired by the classic Italian dessert. It has all the key elements of a layered tiramisu, including espresso, sweet cream, cocoa, and even a hint of vanilla or mascarpone. But all in a sippable format.
The base is usually strong coffee or espresso, layered with warm milk and a creamy topping that mimics the mascarpone layer in traditional tiramisu.
I’ve played around with different versions. Sometimes, I use cream cheese if I’m out of mascarpone (still works!). A little vanilla extract and sweetener bring it to life, and a dusting of cocoa powder on top ties the whole thing together.
You’ll also find Tiramisu latte to be super flexible. For instace, prefer it iced with a dollop of cold foam and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings? Also perfect!
How to Make a Tiramisu Latte (Step-by-Step)
Equipment
- Espresso machine or strong coffee maker (French press works too)
- Milk Frother or Whisk:
- Measuring Spoons:
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or milk steamer wand
Ingredients
- 1–2 shots of espresso or ½ cup strong brewed coffee
- ½ cup milk (whole, oat, or any creamy option)
- 1–2 tablespoons mascarpone or cream cheese
- 1–2 teaspoons sugar or simple syrup, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Cocoa powder or chocolate shavings (optional)
- Ladyfinger crumbles for a dessert-style topping (optional)
- A splash of coffee liqueur for an adult twist (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1) Brew the Coffee: Make your espresso or coffee first. If you’re going the iced route, let it cool for a few minutes so it doesn’t water down the other ingredients.
- Step 2) Make the Creamy Topping: In a small bowl, whisk together the mascarpone, vanilla extract, a bit of milk, and sweetener until smooth. If you like it airy, give it a quick froth for a light and mousse-like texture.
- Step 3) Assemble the Latte: Pour the espresso into your mug or glass. Next, add the milk and stir in your creamy mascarpone mix until it’s velvety and blended. You can finish with a dusting of cocoa powder or a dollop of whipped topping. If you’re feeling extra, sprinkle crushed ladyfingers on top.
Video
Notes
Pro Tip:
For an iced version that still feels rich, use cold foam made with the mascarpone blend and float it over your coffee instead of mixing it in—tastes like tiramisu in a glass.Tiramisu Latte: Tips & Variations
Want to make your tiramisu latte even more you? Here are a few fun and easy ways to tweak the recipe depending on your mood, pantry, or dietary needs.
1 – Use Cold Brew Instead of Espresso
If you don’t have an espresso machine or prefer a smoother, less acidic base, then cold brew is a great option. I’ve done this on hot days and it changes the game.
The cold brew’s mellow richness pairs well with the creamy topping, especially if you’re making an iced tiramisu latte. Just make sure your cold brew is concentrated (not diluted), or it might taste too weak once mixed with milk and mascarpone.
2 – Make It Dairy-Free
I’ve tried this one for friends who are dairy-free, and honestly? Still delicious.
For this, oat milk seems to work best because it adds creaminess without overpowering the coffee. And for vegan cream cheese (I recommend Miyoko’s or Violife), it brings enough tang to mimic the mascarpone.
You may need to add a little more vanilla or sweetener to round out the flavor, but it holds up.
3 – Try It Affogato-Style
This one’s more dessert than drink. But if you want to impress someone (or treat yourself), drop a scoop of good vanilla ice cream into your hot tiramisu latte.
The ice cream melts into the coffee and cream mixture and it’s simply delicious. I’ve done this with leftover ladyfingers on the side… no regrets.
Iced vs. Hot Tiramisu Latte
Whether you’re sipping in summer or cozying up in winter, a tiramisu latte works both ways. However, you need to tweak a few things to get it right.
Adjusting Milk Texture and Temperature
When making it hot, go with steamed milk or frothed milk to give it that creamy, café-style texture.
The mascarpone blend melts smoothly into the espresso, and a dusting of cocoa powder on top makes it feel like an actual dessert in a mug. If you’re using cream cheese instead, warm it up a bit before mixing so it doesn’t clump.
Tips for Making a Cold Version
For the iced version, make sure to cool your espresso or coffee first—lukewarm shots over ice won’t cut it.
You can also use cold milk, or better yet, cold foam. I like to blend mascarpone, oat milk, vanilla, and sweetener, then froth it with a handheld frother until thick and velvety.
Ice or Cold Foam on Top
Once your coffee is chilled and poured over ice, spoon that mousse-like cold foam right on top. It looks fancy and gives you that layered dessert effect.
Afterward, finish with cocoa powder, chocolate shavings, or even a mini ladyfinger on the rim for the full tiramisu vibe.
Last Thoughts
So, have you tried it? Share your twist or any tips that made your tiramisu latte perfect. And with that, let’s both say it together… voilà!
