Jamie Oliver’s Tiramisu Cake Recipe

  • July 18, 2025

Jamie Oliver’s Tiramisu Cake is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, offering a rich, coffee-infused flavor combined with a light, airy texture that will captivate your taste buds and impress any dessert lover. It’s the perfect treat for anyone looking to bring a little bit of Italy into their kitchen with a modern and easy-to-make recipe.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Tiramisu Cake

Jamie Oliver’s Tiramisu Cake is a creative and delicious spin on the traditional Tiramisu, transforming it into a moist, layered cake rather than the classic trifle. It combines the deep flavors of espresso, mascarpone, and cocoa powder in a simple cake form, creating a luxurious, yet accessible dessert. The recipe combines elements of sponge cake soaked in coffee with a rich mascarpone filling, all dusted with cocoa for a perfect, indulgent dessert that is both familiar and refreshing.

Jamie Oliver’s Tiramisu Cake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

jamie oliver tiramisu cake

For Jamie Oliver’s Tiramisu Cake, you’ll need:

  • Cake Ingredients

    • 250g of self-raising flour
    • 200g of caster sugar
    • 4 large eggs (room temperature)
    • 100g of unsalted butter (melted)
    • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
    • 1 tablespoon of baking powder
    • A pinch of salt
  • Filling Ingredients

    • 250g of mascarpone cheese
    • 200ml of double cream
    • 100g of caster sugar
    • 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
    • 2 tablespoons of coffee liqueur (optional, but adds depth to the flavor)
  • Coffee Soak

    • 250ml of strong black coffee (cooled)
    • 2 tablespoons of sugar (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
  • Decoration

    • Cocoa powder (for dusting)
    • Dark chocolate (shaved, optional for garnish)

Equipment Needed

You’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to make this dessert come together seamlessly:

  • Mixing bowls (for cake batter and filling)
  • Electric mixer or whisk (to ensure the filling is smooth and the cake is fluffy)
  • Measuring cups and spoons (for accurate ingredient quantities)
  • Cake tin (a round, 20-25 cm tin works best)
  • Sifter or fine mesh strainer (for dusting the cocoa powder)
  • Spatula (for folding ingredients and spreading filling)
  • Cooling rack (for cooling the cake)

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Tiramisu Cake?

  1. Prepare The Cake

    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease your cake tin.
    • In a large bowl, whisk together the self-raising flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
    • Add in the eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and baking powder. Beat until smooth.
    • Pour the batter into the prepared tin and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean when inserted in the center of the cake.
    • Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before proceeding.
  2. Prepare The Filling

    • In a large bowl, beat together the mascarpone cheese, double cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly thickened.
    • If you like, add 2 tablespoons of coffee liqueur to the mixture for an extra flavor kick.
  3. Coffee Soak

    • Brew your strong black coffee and allow it to cool to room temperature.
    • Stir in the sugar if you prefer a sweeter coffee soak.
  4. Assemble The Cake

    • Slice the cooled cake into two or three horizontal layers.
    • Drizzle each layer with the cooled coffee, making sure it is well-soaked but not soggy.
    • Spread a generous layer of mascarpone filling on top of each coffee-soaked layer.
    • Once all layers are stacked, spread the remaining mascarpone mixture over the top and sides of the cake to cover it entirely.
  5. Finish And Decorate

    • Dust the top of the cake generously with cocoa powder and, if desired, garnish with shaved dark chocolate for added elegance and flavor.
    • Let the cake rest in the fridge for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
  6. Serve And Enjoy

    • Once chilled, slice the cake and serve. You’ll enjoy the soft, coffee-scented sponge, rich mascarpone filling, and subtle chocolate flavors.

Expert Tips

  • Let it cool: Make sure your cake is completely cooled before soaking it in coffee. This helps the sponge absorb the coffee without becoming overly soggy.
  • Layering for balance: If you prefer a lighter flavor, you can reduce the amount of coffee soak or adjust the mascarpone cream mixture to your liking.
  • Make ahead: Tiramisu cake actually improves with time! Making it a day in advance gives the flavors a chance to develop, and it holds up well in the fridge.
  • Use fresh coffee: For the best flavor, use freshly brewed strong coffee. Instant coffee can work in a pinch, but the depth of flavor from freshly brewed coffee really elevates this dessert.

Jamie Oliver’s Tiramisu Cake is a sophisticated yet simple dessert that offers a delightful blend of rich coffee, smooth mascarpone, and airy sponge. With its easy-to-follow steps, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the indulgent flavors of Tiramisu in a new, more accessible form. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in something delicious, this cake is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth!

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Tiramisu Cake

jamie oliver tiramisu cake

Jamie Oliver’s Tiramisu Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the rich flavors of coffee, cream, and sponge cake. While the original recipe is fantastic on its own, there are plenty of fun and creative variations you can try, either to suit dietary preferences or simply to mix things up a bit. Here are some ideas to help you put your own spin on this classic treat:

  1. Vegan Tiramisu Cake: If you or your guests are following a vegan diet, you can make a few swaps to ensure that the tiramisu remains delicious but entirely plant-based. Use coconut or almond milk as a substitute for dairy, and for the mascarpone, you can try a cashew-based cream cheese or coconut cream mixed with a little bit of lemon juice to provide the tangy flavor. Instead of eggs, make a flaxseed mixture as a binder in the cake layer. You can also substitute traditional ladyfingers with a vegan alternative or even make a quick batch of your own using aquafaba (chickpea brine) for a fluffy texture.
  2. Chocolate Tiramisu Cake: For chocolate lovers, try adding cocoa powder to both the cake batter and the cream filling. A rich chocolate ganache layer on top will add an indulgent touch. You could even dip the ladyfingers in chocolate espresso rather than just plain coffee for that extra layer of richness. This variation gives a deep, velvety flavor that pairs wonderfully with the coffee.
  3. Fruit Infused Tiramisu Cake: Try adding some fruit to your tiramisu cake for a fresh twist. A berry version works wonderfully – think of layers of strawberries or raspberries in between the coffee-soaked cake layers. You can also infuse the cream with a berry puree or even a dash of fruit liqueur like Grand Marnier or Chambord for an added complexity of flavor.
  4. Almond or Hazelnut Tiramisu Cake: For a nuttier variation, add ground almonds or hazelnuts into the cake batter. You could also sprinkle chopped roasted nuts in between the layers for an added crunch that complements the creamy mascarpone filling. Alternatively, try making a hazelnut coffee syrup to soak your ladyfingers instead of the traditional espresso.
  5. Caramel Tiramisu Cake: If you love the combination of coffee and caramel, why not add a drizzle of caramel sauce between the layers of cake and cream? A salted caramel twist would elevate the flavor profile even more. For an extra special touch, add a layer of caramelized sugar on top for an added visual and flavor contrast.
  6. Spiced Tiramisu Cake: To add an autumnal touch, try incorporating warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cardamom into the cream mixture or cake batter. This version would be perfect for cooler months and could give your tiramisu a lovely, comforting fragrance.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Tiramisu is best enjoyed fresh, but if you happen to have leftovers (which can sometimes be the case with such a crowd-pleasing dessert), it’s important to store them properly so they retain their flavor and texture. Here’s how you can store your tiramisu cake to make sure it stays delicious:

  1. Refrigeration: Since tiramisu contains dairy, it should always be kept in the refrigerator to ensure food safety and to maintain its creamy texture. Cover the dessert tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will prevent the cake from absorbing any other smells in the fridge and keep it from drying out.
  2. Layering Protection: If you have made a large batch and plan to store it in layers, consider placing parchment paper or plastic wrap between the layers to prevent them from sticking together. This will help to preserve the presentation and texture of the cake when you go to serve it again.
  3. Freezing Tiramisu: If you need to store your tiramisu for a longer period, freezing is an option. However, keep in mind that freezing may slightly affect the texture, particularly the cream. To freeze, place the tiramisu in an airtight container and cover it with plastic wrap before sealing it. Make sure the container is airtight to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat it again, allow it to thaw in the fridge for several hours or overnight.
  4. Consume Within 2-3 Days: While tiramisu can last for up to 5 days in the fridge, it’s best to consume it within 2-3 days to enjoy it at its freshest. The cream filling and coffee flavor tend to degrade over time, so the sooner you indulge, the better the experience!

What Goes Well With Tiramisu Cake?

Tiramisu cake is a rich and indulgent dessert, and pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the overall experience. Here are a few options that go perfectly with tiramisu:

  1. Coffee or Espresso: Of course, tiramisu is traditionally paired with coffee, so a strong espresso or a well-brewed cup of coffee is a perfect match. The bold flavors of the coffee complement the dessert’s creamy texture and the coffee-soaked cake layers.
  2. Dessert Wines: For an extra touch of sophistication, pair your tiramisu with a glass of dessert wine like a sweet Marsala wine (a key ingredient in many tiramisu recipes), a glass of Vin Santo, or even a late-harvest Riesling. These wines have the right level of sweetness to balance the richness of the tiramisu.
  3. Chocolate: While tiramisu already contains some chocolate in the form of cocoa powder or shaved chocolate, adding a small plate of dark chocolate truffles or a chocolate mousse can create a perfect contrast of textures and flavors.
  4. Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: For those who love extra creaminess, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can add a light and smooth contrast to the dense layers of the tiramisu.
  5. Fruit: Pairing tiramisu with a side of fresh fruit like berries, figs, or sliced oranges can cut through the richness and provide a refreshing contrast. The natural acidity of the fruit also helps balance the creamy sweetness of the dessert.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Tiramisu Cake is a wonderfully versatile dessert that can be customized in countless ways to suit personal tastes and dietary restrictions. Whether you decide to make a vegan version, experiment with chocolate, or infuse the cake with fruits or spices, there are endless possibilities to explore.

Proper storage ensures that leftovers remain delicious for a few days, and when paired with coffee, dessert wines, or chocolate, your tiramisu experience can be further elevated. So, gather your ingredients, get creative, and enjoy the rich, creamy indulgence of this timeless Italian classic!.

FAQs

What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Tiramisu Cake Recipe Unique?

Jamie Oliver’s tiramisu cake recipe stands out because it combines the traditional Italian dessert with a cake form, giving it a fresh twist. It layers soft sponge cake soaked in coffee and liqueur with a rich mascarpone filling, all while being easy to prepare and delicious.

Can I Use A Store-bought Sponge Cake For This Tiramisu Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute a store-bought sponge cake for the homemade version in Jamie Oliver’s tiramisu cake recipe. However, using a freshly baked cake can enhance the texture and flavor.

What Is The Best Type Of Coffee To Use In Jamie Oliver’s Tiramisu Cake?

A strong brewed espresso is recommended for soaking the sponge cake. This ensures the cake absorbs the full coffee flavor, which is a key element in tiramisu. Avoid using instant coffee as it may lack depth.

How Long Should I Let The Tiramisu Cake Chill Before Serving?

After assembling the tiramisu cake, it should be refrigerated for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cake to set, giving you the perfect texture.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Tiramisu Cake In Advance?

Yes, you can make this tiramisu cake in advance. It actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours or even a day, allowing the flavors to develop and the cake to absorb the coffee and liqueur.

Is It Necessary To Use Alcohol In This Recipe?

While traditional tiramisu recipes include alcohol like Marsala wine or rum, Jamie Oliver’s tiramisu cake allows you to substitute alcohol with flavored syrups or coffee if you prefer to make it alcohol-free.

What Can I Substitute For Mascarpone Cheese In Jamie Oliver’s Tiramisu Cake?

If you cannot find mascarpone cheese, you can substitute it with a mixture of cream cheese and heavy cream. This will give a similar creamy texture, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I Use A Different Flavor Of Liqueur For The Tiramisu Cake?

Absolutely!

While the traditional tiramisu uses a coffee-flavored liqueur, you can experiment with other flavors like amaretto, hazelnut liqueur, or even vanilla vodka to suit your taste.

How Do I Prevent The Sponge Cake From Becoming Soggy In Jamie Oliver’s Tiramisu Cake?

To prevent the sponge cake from becoming too soggy, avoid soaking it in the coffee mixture for too long. A quick dip, around 1-2 seconds, is enough to absorb the flavor without making it mushy.

Can I Decorate Jamie Oliver’s Tiramisu Cake With Cocoa Powder?

Yes, sprinkling cocoa powder on top of the tiramisu cake is a great way to add flavor and enhance the visual appeal. For a refined look, you can use a fine sieve to dust the cocoa powder evenly over the top.