Tiramisu Balls: Quick and Easy No-Bake Dessert Recipe

If you adore the classic Italian dessert but want something quicker, easier, and absolutely delightful, you are going to fall head over heels for this recipe. These Tiramisu Balls: Quick and Easy No-Bake Dessert Recipe capture all the rich, creamy, coffee-soaked magic of tiramisu in a fun, bite-sized form. Perfect for parties, simple family treats, or when you just need a sweet pick-me-up without the fuss of baking or layering, these tiramisu balls are an absolute game-changer you’d want to make over and over again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the essentials for this recipe is refreshingly straightforward, yet each ingredient plays a crucial role. From the creamy mascarpone that brings luscious richness to the whipped cream’s light and fluffy texture, to the coffee and cocoa that add depth and that unforgettable tiramisu flair, every item contributes something special.

• 250g Mascarpone Cheese: This gives the dessert its signature creamy texture and slight tang.
• 150ml Heavy Cream: Whipped to perfection, it lightens the mixture beautifully.
• 50g Powdered Sugar: Sifted for smooth sweetness without any graininess.
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and enhances the flavor complexity.
• Pinch of Salt: Balances sweetness and boosts overall flavor.
• 150g Ladyfingers (Savoiardi biscuits): The coffee-soaked base that brings classic tiramisu crunch and softness.
• 1 cup Strong Brewed Coffee: Cooled to soak the ladyfingers and infuse that bold coffee essence.
• 2 tbsp Coffee Liqueur (optional): A boozy touch that turns these treats into something extra special.
• 2 tbsp Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: For dusting—the final chocolatey kiss.
• Chocolate Shavings or Grated Chocolate (optional): Adds a lovely, decorative finish and extra indulgence.

How to Make Tiramisu Balls: Quick and Easy No-Bake Dessert Recipe

Step 1: Whip the Heavy Cream

Start by chilling a large bowl, then whip the cold heavy cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. This takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid overwhipping because you want soft, luscious peaks to fold into the mascarpone mixture later on.

Step 2: Mix Mascarpone and Sugar

In a separate bowl, gently combine the mascarpone cheese and sifted powdered sugar until luxuriously smooth. This is where the sweetness and that classic creamy tang begin to come together, setting the dessert’s foundation.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Salt

Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. These small additions subtly lift the flavors, balancing sweetness and enriching every creamy bite.

Step 4: Fold in the Whipped Cream

Carefully fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture. Add it gently in two or three batches to keep the mixture airy and light—this step is key to that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 5: Chill the Cream Mixture

Cover the mascarpone cream and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors meld and makes the mixture easier to work with in the next steps.

Step 6: Brew Strong Coffee and Add Coffee Liqueur

Brew a strong cup of coffee and let it cool completely. If you like a little extra kick, stir in the coffee liqueur here—it adds depth and authenticity but isn’t mandatory.

Step 7: Dip and Crush Ladyfingers

Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee mixture, making sure not to soak them too long or they’ll get soggy. After dipping, pulse them in a food processor until finely crushed, or crush by hand with a rolling pin inside a sealed bag for a coarser texture.

Step 8: Combine Ladyfingers and Cream

Gently fold the crushed ladyfingers into the chilled mascarpone cream until evenly mixed. This creates a harmonious blend of creamy richness and coffee-flavored crunch in every bite.

Step 9: Chill the Mixture Again

Cover and let the mixture rest in the fridge for at least one hour or up to four hours. This chilling period allows the flavors to fully develop and makes the mixture firm enough to shape.

Step 10: Shape and Coat the Tiramisu Balls

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and roll each into a smooth ball approximately one inch in diameter. Then, roll each ball in unsweetened cocoa powder until fully coated to give that classic, elegant finish.

Step 11: Garnish and Final Chill

Optionally, garnish your tiramisu balls with chocolate shavings or grated chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence. Finally, refrigerate the balls on parchment-lined trays for at least 30 minutes before serving to let them firm up and meld flavors further.

How to Serve Tiramisu Balls: Quick and Easy No-Bake Dessert Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle cocoa powder generously and add chocolate curls or a dusting of espresso powder to elevate the appearance and deepen the coffee notes. A fresh mint leaf on top can add a refreshing contrast and pop of color.

Side Dishes

Pair these tiramisu balls with a fresh berry salad or a light fruit compote. The bright tartness of berries balances the richness of the dessert perfectly. A small glass of dessert wine or a cappuccino alongside also makes a delightful combination.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the tiramisu balls in mini cupcake liners for a neat and charming presentation. Layer them with extra mascarpone cream in clear jars or elegant glasses for a deconstructed dessert experience that’ll wow your guests visually and taste-wise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover tiramisu balls in an airtight container and keep refrigerated. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen with a little extra resting time!

Freezing

Wrap individual balls in plastic wrap and freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving for best texture. While freezing slightly alters the delicate creaminess, they still make a wonderfully convenient treat.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, pull tiramisu balls from the fridge about 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly and maximize their creamy richness.

FAQs

Can I make Tiramisu Balls without coffee liqueur?

Absolutely! Coffee liqueur adds a sophisticated boozy note but is entirely optional. The strong brewed coffee alone gives plenty of rich flavor.

How long do tiramisu balls last in the fridge?

They keep well for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Their flavor tends to improve after resting a day, so prepping in advance is perfect.

What if I don’t have ladyfingers?

You can substitute with sponge cake or similar light cookies. Just make sure to adjust soaking time so they don’t become too soggy or too dry.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, try using mascarpone alternatives made from cashews or coconut cream, and substitute heavy cream with coconut or oat-based whipping cream, though the texture will vary.

Is it okay to use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?

Instant coffee can work in a pinch but brewed strong coffee offers better flavor complexity and aroma, making the tiramisu balls taste much more authentic.

Final Thoughts

There is something so charming and satisfying about these Tiramisu Balls: Quick and Easy No-Bake Dessert Recipe. They effortlessly capture the essence of traditional tiramisu but in a fun, approachable way that is perfect for any occasion. I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch as your family or guests fall in love with this easy, no-fuss, utterly delicious treat. Once you make them, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed tiramisu any other way!

Print