Decaf Tiramisu (Alcohol Free)

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This decaf tiramisu is perfect for those who love the flavour of coffee but don't want the caffeine hit. It's super easy to make with no baking required and can be made with or without alcohol.

If you're anything like me and can't handle caffeine, this decaf tiramisu is the perfect dessert for you. You can enjoy all the delicious, creamy flavours of tiramisu without feeling terrible afterwards!

Since this is a decaf and alcohol-free version (without eggs in the creamy mixture), this is definitely not an authentic Italian recipe but it is still absolutely delicious and fun to make! I hope you enjoy the recipe.

Ingredient Notes

Instant decaf coffee: This gives that classic coffee kick without the caffeine. I usually use a dark roast for a stronger flavour.
Boiling water: Just to dissolve the coffee, nothing fancy here!
Double cream: This is what gives our tiramisu its luxurious, velvety texture. I didn't use eggs in my recipe so the cream helps to give it a similarly light texture.
Mascarpone: This Italian soft cheese adds a delicious tanginess and helps make the cream layer sturdy.
Caster sugar: To sweeten the cream mixture. You can use granulated sugar if that's all you have but I prefer the texture when using caster sugar.
Vanilla extract: This complements the coffee flavour nicely. Use the good stuff if you can- it makes a difference!
Almond extract: Traditionally, tiramisu contains Marsala, which is a type of fortified Italian wine. However, I wanted this recipe to be alcohol-free too so I used a small amount of almond extract instead. It helps to give that extra 'something' that feels missing without the alcohol. If you're not keen, you can replace it with 1 more teaspoon of vanilla extract. For an alcoholic version, replace it with a few tablespoons of Marsala, dark rum, brandy or Amaretto.
Salt: Just a small pinch, to balance the sweetness and enhance the other flavours.
Ladyfingers: These create the structure of the tiramisu and soak up the coffee beautifully. They are sometimes called sponge fingers.
Cocoa powder: For dusting. This adds a bit of bitterness to balance out the sweet cream and gives that classic tiramisu look.

Equipment Notes

Electric whisk: Or a stand mixer, for whipping the cream mixture to the right consistency.
8x8-inch tin: This size of tin is perfect for achieving the right thickness when you cut your tiramisu into slices. You can also use an 8-inch cake tin for a more fancy look.
Mixing bowl: A large one, for preparing the creamy layer.
Measuring jug or cups: Handy for measuring out the liquids accurately. Don't worry though, precision helps but tiramisu is quite forgiving!
Sieve: Or an icing sugar duster, for dusting the cocoa powder on top. If you don't have one you can just sprinkle it on by hand.

How to make decaf tiramisu

Step 1: Prepare some strong coffee by mixing 250ml boiling water with 2.5 tablespoons of decaf instant coffee. Set it aside to cool to room temperature.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together 350ml of double cream, 250g of mascarpone, 80g of caster sugar, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon of almond extract. Whip it up until it becomes thick and holds stiff peaks.

Step 3: Dip 16 ladyfingers into the cooled coffee and place them into an 8x8-inch tin. Top with half of the cream mixture and spread it evenly over the top.

dipping ladyfinger cookies into decaf coffee

layer of ladyfinger cookies in base of tin

Step 4: Repeat to add another layer of ladyfingers and cream then loosely cover it with clingfilm.

placing decaf soaked ladyfingers on top of cream layer

ladyfingers covered with alcohol free cream layer

Step 5: Chill your decaf tiramisu in the fridge overnight. This will allow time for the flavours to develop and the ladyfingers to soften.

Step 6: After it's done setting, remove your tiramisu from the fridge and sprinkle over some cocoa powder to cover the top.

Step 7: Cut into slices and enjoy!

Top Tips

For a kid-friendly version, mix the boiling water with cocoa powder instead of decaf coffee.
Make sure your coffee is cool before you start dipping the ladyfingers otherwise, they'll end up soggy.
To get clean slices, wipe your knife with a piece of kitchen towel in between each cut. This helps to stop the cream from getting everywhere.
For a bit of extra texture and sweetness, try grating some dark chocolate over the top along with the cocoa powder.
If you're short on time, you can chill the tiramisu for about 4 hours instead of overnight. It won't be quite as set but it'll still taste great.

FAQs

Can I add alcohol?

Yes. I made this recipe alcohol-free since it's caffeine-free too but there is a noticeable difference in taste if you're used to the alcoholic version. If you'd like to add alcohol, you can swap the almond extract out for 3 tablespoons of Marsala (or dark rum, brandy or Amaretto).

How long does decaf tiramisu last?

When appropriately covered and stored in the fridge, this tiramisu will last for up to 3 days. In my opinion, the flavours actually improve after the first day, making it a great make-ahead dessert.

What can I use instead of ladyfingers?

Ladyfingers are traditional and work best due to their texture, but in a pinch, you could use biscotti, panettone or even some plain sponge cake cut into strips.

Is it necessary to chill tiramisu overnight?

While it's best to chill it overnight, you can get away with chilling it for 4-6 hours if you're short on time. However, the longer chill time allows the ladyfingers to soften and the flavours to mature, resulting in a better texture and taste.

How much tiramisu does this recipe yield?

This recipe makes enough to generously fill an 8x8 inch tin, which should serve about 9-12 people, depending on how big you want your slices to be. I usually cut mine into 12.

slice of decaf tiramisu with a spoonful taken out of it

I hope you like my decaf tiramisu recipe. If you make it at home, please leave a comment to let me know what you think. Enjoy!