Tiramisu Ice Cream Cake Recipe

May 22, 2025 Todd Frugal Recipes 0

Tiramisu Ice Cream Cake

If you love classic tiramisu but want a refreshing, frozen dessert twist, this Tiramisu Ice Cream Cake is your new go-to. With layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone ice cream, cocoa powder, and whipped topping, it’s cool, rich, and perfect for warm-weather entertaining. 🍨☕

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This no-bake dessert is ideal for summer parties, birthdays, coffee lovers, or anyone who wants a chilled twist on a timeless favorite. Bonus: it’s freezer-friendly and make-ahead approved!

☕ Ingredients

For the Layers:

  • 2 (7 oz) packages ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
  • 2 cups strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled
  • ¼ cup coffee liqueur (optional)
  • 1½ quarts vanilla or mascarpone ice cream, softened
  • 1 cup whipped topping (or whipped cream)
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder (for dusting)

🛒 Shop Essentials

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prep Your Pan

  1. Line a 9×9 baking dish with parchment paper or plastic wrap for easy lifting later.

2. Dip and Layer Ladyfingers

  1. Mix espresso and liqueur (if using) in a shallow bowl.
  2. Quickly dip each ladyfinger (do not soak!) and place in a single layer to cover the pan bottom.

3. Add Ice Cream Layer

  1. Scoop softened ice cream over the ladyfingers and spread into an even layer.
  2. Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers, followed by more ice cream if desired.

4. Freeze & Finish

  1. Freeze for 4+ hours or overnight.
  2. Before serving, top with whipped topping and sift cocoa powder over the surface.
  3. Slice and serve immediately for the perfect chilled bite.

🍨 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • ✅ All the flavors of tiramisu, frozen into cake form
  • ✅ No baking required
  • ✅ Make-ahead friendly
  • ✅ Elegant enough for events, easy enough for weeknights

☀️ Variations to Try

  • Chocolate Tiramisu Cake: Use chocolate or mocha ice cream and add chocolate shavings between layers
  • Nutella Swirl: Swirl Nutella into the ice cream before layering
  • Tiramisu Trifle: Make it in a trifle bowl for a stunning presentation
  • Mini Tiramisu Cups: Assemble individual servings in mason jars or ramekins

📦 Storage Tips

  • Store in the freezer covered for up to 1 week
  • Slice while frozen, then thaw individual portions for 10–15 minutes before eating

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💬 Reader Reviews

“This was so easy and looked impressive! It tasted just like classic tiramisu, but even more refreshing.” – Eliza D.

“I made this for a summer birthday and it disappeared in minutes. Definitely making again!” – Jonathan W.

☕ How to Serve Tiramisu Ice Cream Cake Like a Pro

This frozen dessert is as elegant as it is easy. Here’s how to make it the showstopper at your next gathering:

🍰 Sliced & Styled

Cut the frozen cake into clean squares or slices using a sharp knife dipped in hot water. Wipe between cuts to keep those layers picture-perfect. Dust with extra cocoa powder, chocolate curls, or espresso powder for a professional finish.

Serve with:

  • A dollop of whipped cream

  • Fresh raspberries or strawberries

  • A sprig of mint

  • Chocolate-covered espresso beans for garnish

🧁 Mini Dessert Cups

Want a grab-and-go option for parties? Build mini Tiramisu Ice Cream Cakes in individual clear plastic cups or mason jars. Alternate layers of soaked ladyfingers and ice cream. Top with whipped cream, cocoa powder, and a small spoon. Perfect for:

  • Bridal showers

  • Baby showers

  • Graduation parties

  • Dessert bars

🎉 Perfect for Warm-Weather Events

Because it’s served frozen, this cake is ideal for:

  • 🍦 Summer birthdays

  • ☀️ Backyard BBQs

  • 🍾 Brunch or engagement parties

  • 🧊 No-oven-needed desserts during heat waves

  • 💕 Mother’s Day or anniversaries

Serve it chilled on a platter over a bed of crushed ice or in an insulated tray if you’ll be outdoors.

🥄 Flavor Twists & Creative Variations

Already obsessed and want to try it again? Mix it up with these fun upgrades:

🍫 Mocha Tiramisu Ice Cream Cake

Use chocolate or mocha-flavored ice cream and add a layer of ganache between ladyfinger and ice cream layers. Dust with a blend of cocoa powder and espresso powder.

🍦 Strawberry Tiramisu Cake

Use vanilla ice cream swirled with strawberry preserves and substitute espresso for strawberry syrup. Top with sliced strawberries and whipped cream.

🍮 Caramel Macchiato Ice Cream Cake

Add layers of caramel drizzle and a pinch of sea salt. Use caramel-flavored ice cream or add 1–2 tablespoons of caramel sauce between layers.

🌰 Nutty Crunch Tiramisu

Fold chopped hazelnuts or almonds into the ice cream layer or sprinkle between ladyfinger layers for added texture and nutty flavor.

✅ Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

This dessert is ideal for batch-making and storing ahead of time:

  • Make ahead: Assemble the day before and freeze overnight. Add whipped topping and dusting right before serving.

  • Slice in advance: Cut into squares after freezing and store in individual containers for grab-and-serve convenience.

  • Freezer shelf life: Best consumed within 5–7 days for freshest flavor and texture.

Want to make it portable? Wrap individual squares in parchment and store in a hard-sided container. These are perfect for gifting or packing for parties.

🌿 Dietary Substitutions

Make this crowd-pleaser suit more diets with easy ingredient swaps:

  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ladyfingers or substitute sponge cake made from GF flour.

  • Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk-based ice cream and whipped topping. There are also great vegan ladyfinger alternatives at specialty stores.

  • Alcohol-Free: Skip the coffee liqueur and use a splash of vanilla or almond extract instead.