Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake is a brilliant fusion of two beloved desserts: the classic Italian Tiramisu and a British-style sponge cake. A delightful and decadent creation, it captures the essence of Tiramisu’s rich coffee flavors, mascarpone cream, and delicate sponge, but with the added structure and heartiness of a cake. Instead of the traditional layered dessert in a dish, this recipe transforms Tiramisu into a beautifully presented cake, perfect for serving at parties, special occasions, or just as a comforting treat after dinner.
The cake layers are soft and moist, soaked with a coffee-and-liquor mixture that mimics the soaked ladyfingers in Tiramisu. These layers are sandwiched together with a velvety mascarpone filling that delivers all the creamy, luxurious flavors you’d expect from Tiramisu. The top of the cake is dusted with cocoa powder, creating a stunning visual contrast and providing a slight bitterness to balance the sweetness of the cake.
Mary Berry, a renowned British baker and television personality, has a talent for making intricate baking recipes feel approachable. This Tiramisu Cake is no exception-it’s sophisticated in flavor but relatively simple to make, especially when compared to the traditional Tiramisu.
Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake Recipe
Ingredients Needed
Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake requires a variety of ingredients that combine the flavors of a traditional Tiramisu with the texture and structure of a cake. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
For The Cake
- Self-raising flour: This is essential for achieving a light and airy texture in the cake. If you don’t have self-raising flour, you can use plain flour and add a little baking powder.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is best for this recipe, as it gives the cake a rich flavor without adding any unnecessary salt.
- Caster sugar: This fine sugar helps the cake batter become smooth and light.
- Eggs: Large eggs are used to give structure to the cake while keeping it soft and moist.
- Milk: Adds moisture to the cake and helps create a soft crumb.
- Vanilla extract: This enhances the cake’s overall flavor with a hint of warmth.
For The Coffee Syrup
- Strong coffee: Freshly brewed, strong coffee (or espresso) is key to giving the cake its signature Tiramisu flavor.
- Coffee liqueur: Typically, Kahlúa is used, but you can opt for other coffee-flavored liqueurs to add complexity. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute with a bit more coffee.
- Sugar: A small amount of sugar is added to the coffee syrup to balance the bitterness of the coffee.
For The Mascarpone Filling
- Mascarpone cheese: This creamy cheese gives the filling its smooth texture and luxurious taste. It’s the star of the Tiramisu flavor profile.
- Double cream: Heavy cream or double cream is whipped to add richness and volume to the filling.
- Icing sugar: Used to sweeten the mascarpone mixture without overpowering its delicate flavor.
- Vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla in the filling adds a subtle depth of flavor.
For Dusting
- Cocoa powder: This is used to dust the top of the cake, contributing to the Tiramisu flavor and offering a beautiful finishing touch.
Equipment Needed
To make Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to ensure that everything comes together smoothly and perfectly. These include:
- Cake tins: You will need two round cake tins, typically 8 inches in diameter. These will be used to bake the sponge layers. It’s a good idea to line the tins with parchment paper or grease them to ensure the cakes don’t stick.
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer: While you could technically mix the ingredients by hand, using a mixer will make the process much quicker and ensure the batter has the right consistency.
- Large mixing bowls: You’ll need separate bowls for mixing the dry ingredients, wet ingredients, and for whipping the cream and mascarpone mixture.
- Whisk: A handheld whisk will come in handy for stirring the mascarpone filling or mixing the coffee syrup.
- Sifter: A fine sifter is important for dusting the cocoa powder on top of the cake, ensuring a smooth, even layer.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements are important for a consistent result, so make sure you have your measuring tools ready.
- Cooling rack: Once the cakes are baked, place them on a cooling rack to cool down before assembling the layers.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake
Making this Tiramisu Cake is a step-by-step process, but don’t worry-it’s easier than it sounds! Follow these instructions carefully, and you’ll end up with a show-stopping dessert.
1. Preheat The Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F), and grease and line two 8-inch round cake tins with parchment paper.
2. Make The Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 5 minutes using an electric hand mixer.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Sift together the self-raising flour and a pinch of salt, and gradually fold it into the wet ingredients. Alternate adding the flour and milk, beginning and ending with the flour, to create a smooth batter.
3. Bake The Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake tins. Smooth the tops and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Prepare The Coffee Syrup
While the cakes are baking, make the coffee syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the freshly brewed coffee, coffee liqueur, and sugar. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves. Set aside to cool.
5. Make The Mascarpone Filling
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, double cream, icing sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and thickened to a soft, spreadable consistency.
- Set aside.
6. Assemble The Cake
Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Brush the top generously with the coffee syrup, ensuring the cake absorbs the liquid evenly.
- Spread a layer of the mascarpone filling on top of the soaked cake layer.
- Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process, soaking the top layer with more coffee syrup and spreading the mascarpone mixture evenly.
7. Finishing Touch
Dust the top of the assembled cake with cocoa powder using a fine sieve. You can also garnish with grated chocolate or chocolate shavings if you’d like to add a little extra flair.
Tips And Tricks
- Don’t oversoak the cake: While soaking the sponge in the coffee syrup is key to achieving the classic Tiramisu flavor, be careful not to oversoak the cake layers. Too much liquid can cause the sponge to become soggy and fall apart.
- Use strong coffee: For an authentic Tiramisu taste, make sure your coffee is strong. You can also use espresso if you have it on hand for a more intense coffee flavor.
- Chill the cake: After assembling the cake, refrigerate it for a couple of hours before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes the cake easier to slice.
- Make-ahead: This cake can be made in advance! In fact, it often tastes even better the day after it’s made, as the flavors have more time to develop.
Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake is an irresistible blend of Italian and British baking traditions. With its moist, coffee-soaked sponge and indulgent mascarpone filling, it’s a dessert that will surely impress your guests or satisfy your own sweet cravings. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this cake brings all the flavors of a traditional Tiramisu in a much more convenient and elegant cake form. By following these steps and tips, you can create a showstopper dessert that’s both easy to prepare and completely delicious.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake
Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake is already a delightful fusion of rich Italian flavors and light, airy textures, but you can easily put your own spin on the recipe by incorporating a few simple variations. These tweaks can cater to different tastes, dietary needs, or even just your mood on a particular day.
1. Add Flavored Liqueurs
While the traditional tiramisu calls for coffee and a splash of Marsala wine, you can elevate the flavors by experimenting with different liqueurs. For example, you can substitute the coffee with Irish whiskey or amaretto, which will give the cake a rich nutty or toasty kick. Another option is to use coffee-flavored liqueurs like Kahlúa for a stronger coffee taste or Grand Marnier for a citrusy twist.
2. Fruit-Infused Tiramisu Cake
For a lighter, fruitier version of Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake, you could replace some of the coffee-soaked sponge layers with fruit. Strawberries, raspberries, or even a layer of fresh peaches can bring a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cream. You can soak the fruit in a bit of sugar syrup or a splash of fruit liqueur like raspberry schnapps for extra flavor.
3. Gluten-Free Option
If you need to cater to gluten-sensitive guests, it’s relatively easy to make Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake gluten-free. Substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour, which will give the cake a slightly nutty flavor while maintaining its moist texture. Just ensure that all the other ingredients are also gluten-free, including any liqueurs or flavorings.
4. Vegan Tiramisu Cake
For those following a plant-based diet, Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake can be adapted into a vegan dessert. Replace the eggs with aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water). For the mascarpone, use a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew-based mascarpone or coconut cream. You can even swap the traditional tiramisu coffee soak with a strong brewed herbal tea like chai for a unique flavor experience.
5. Chocolate Twist
If you’re a chocolate lover, why not add a chocolatey touch to Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake? A layer of rich dark chocolate ganache between the sponge cake layers can add decadence. You can also fold some melted chocolate into the mascarpone cream filling to create a smooth, luxurious chocolate layer. For extra flair, sprinkle grated chocolate on top or even add cocoa powder into the coffee soak.
6. Nutty Touches
For added texture and depth, sprinkle chopped hazelnuts, pistachios, or almonds between layers of cake. These nuts will add a satisfying crunch and earthy flavors that complement the smooth mascarpone. Toasting the nuts lightly beforehand will also bring out their natural oils and enhance their flavors.
7. Citrus Zest Infusion
Infuse a burst of citrus flavor into your tiramisu cake by adding lemon or orange zest to the mascarpone mixture. The bright, zesty note will balance out the richness of the coffee and cream and make the dessert feel even more refreshing. You could even add a hint of lemon juice to the cake batter for a citrusy base flavor.
Storing Leftovers
Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake is a dessert best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, proper storage will help preserve its delicious flavors and textures for a few days. Here’s how to store the cake so that it remains just as tempting when you’re ready for round two.
1. Refrigeration
Tiramisu cake should be stored in the fridge, as its cream-based filling contains perishable ingredients like mascarpone and whipped cream. Make sure the cake is tightly wrapped or covered with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors. You can also store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
Refrigerated, Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake will stay good for about 2 to 3 days. The cake layers may soften a bit more as it sits, but the flavor will intensify, making it an even more delightful treat.
2. Freezing
If you don’t think you’ll be able to finish the entire cake in a couple of days, freezing is another option. To freeze the cake, slice it into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy the cake, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight, so it remains nice and creamy. Avoid refreezing once the cake has been thawed, as the texture can suffer.
3. Avoid Freezing The Mascarpone Cream
One thing to note when freezing tiramisu cake is that while the sponge layers can freeze well, the mascarpone cream filling can change in texture after freezing. If you’re making a large batch of tiramisu cake to store, consider freezing just the cake layers and adding fresh mascarpone cream when you’re ready to serve. This will ensure the best texture and flavor.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake?
Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake is a dessert in itself, but pairing it with complementary dishes and beverages can elevate the experience even further. Here are some delightful options to consider:
1. Coffee Or Espresso
Given that tiramisu cake is traditionally made with coffee, serving it alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee or espresso is an ideal pairing. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the cake while reinforcing the cake’s coffee flavor. A dark roast or a rich cappuccino could work especially well.
2. Dessert Wine
A glass of dessert wine, such as Vin Santo, Marsala, or a sweet Italian Moscato, would be a luxurious choice to serve with tiramisu cake. These wines offer a honeyed sweetness that complements the rich, creamy layers of the cake, while their acidity helps cut through the richness.
3. Light Fruit Salad
If you want to lighten up the indulgence of the tiramisu, consider serving a fresh fruit salad on the side. A mix of berries, citrus, and perhaps a touch of mint will offer a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the cake. The acidity of the fruit also provides a nice balance to the dessert’s rich flavors.
4. Whipped Cream Or Ice Cream
For an extra layer of creaminess, serve the tiramisu cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla or coffee-flavored ice cream. A cold, creamy companion will elevate the texture of the cake and add to its indulgent appeal.
5. Chocolate Dipped Biscuits
For a bit of crunch and extra decadence, you could serve the cake with chocolate-dipped biscotti or ladyfingers (savoiardi) on the side. These cookies, when dipped in melted chocolate, add a crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft tiramisu.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake is a stunning dessert that combines the best aspects of both classic tiramisu and traditional cake. Whether you follow the original recipe or put your own spin on it with variations like adding liqueurs, fruits, or even making it gluten-free or vegan, this cake is always a crowd-pleaser.
Storing leftovers is simple, and while the cake is best enjoyed fresh, you can easily refrigerate or freeze it for later indulgence. For an elevated dessert experience, pair your tiramisu cake with coffee, dessert wines, or even a light fruit salad to balance out its richness. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake is a versatile and delectable treat that brings a touch of elegance to any occasion.
FAQs
What Are The Key Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake Recipe?
Mary Berry’s tiramisu cake recipe requires the following key ingredients: plain flour, caster sugar, eggs, baking powder, butter, mascarpone cheese, strong espresso coffee, cocoa powder, and a splash of coffee liqueur (optional). Additionally, you will need some sugar syrup to soak the cake layers, mimicking the traditional flavor profile of tiramisu.
Can I Make Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake Ahead Of Time?
Yes, Mary Berry’s tiramisu cake can definitely be made ahead of time. In fact, making it a day in advance enhances the flavors as the cake layers soak up the coffee and syrup mixture. Once assembled, store the cake in the fridge, and it will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap to avoid it drying out or absorbing odors from other items in the fridge.
What Is The Best Way To Serve Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake?
Mary Berry’s tiramisu cake is best served chilled. After assembling the layers of soaked cake, mascarpone filling, and cocoa dusting, refrigerate for several hours to allow the flavors to meld together. For serving, slice the cake into individual portions, and garnish with extra cocoa powder or grated chocolate for added decoration. A few fresh raspberries or a dusting of cinnamon can also be great optional garnishes to add a personal touch.
