If you love the nostalgic flavors of the holidays, wait until you try this Eggnog Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe. It perfectly marries the creamy, dreamy texture of classic tiramisu with festive eggnog and spicy gingerbread cookies, creating a dessert that is both delightfully familiar and wonderfully unique. Each bite melts in your mouth, offering layers of flavor that celebrate the season in the most indulgent way possible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Eggnog Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe relies on simple but carefully chosen ingredients that work in harmony to deliver its signature taste and texture. Each component plays a crucial role, from the richness of the mascarpone to the warming spices in the gingerbread cookies, making the end result truly unforgettable.
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream: Whipped to fluffy perfection, this adds the airy, creamy layer that balances the spices.
- 3 large egg yolks: Provide a rich base and help create that classic tiramisu custard texture.
- 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar, sifted: Ensures sweetness is smooth and evenly mixed without any lumps.
- 2 1/4 cups mascarpone: The luxurious cheese gives the dessert its velvety and creamy heart.
- 1/2 cup eggnog: Adds seasonal depth and flavor, infusing that unmistakable holiday spirit.
- 14-18 gingerbread men cookies (about 4-inch in size): The star of the dish, offering spice and texture instead of traditional ladyfingers.
- 1/2 cup strong black coffee (espresso preferred): Adds a bold contrast that enhances the richness and cuts through the sweetness.
- 1 tbsp light or dark rum: Introduces warmth and complexity to the coffee soak.
- Optional whipped cream, unsweetened cocoa, chocolate sprinkles, or gingerbread men cookie crumbs for decoration: Perfect for making this beautiful dessert even more festive.
How to Make Eggnog Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Whip the Cream
Begin by whipping the heavy cream until stiff peaks form — this is key for the light and fluffy contrast in your tiramisu layers. Whether you use an electric mixer or a good old-fashioned whisk, take your time to get those peaks just right, as they’ll add that heavenly texture that makes this dessert feel so special.
Step 2: Prepare the Mascarpone Mixture
Next, beat the egg yolks with the powdered sugar until the mixture turns light and creamy. This adds an airy, smooth base for your mascarpone. After combining the mascarpone and part of the eggnog, mix gently before folding in a quarter of the whipped cream. This careful folding keeps the mixture light but rich, delivering that signature tiramisu creaminess with a festive twist.
Step 3: Mix the Coffee Soak
In a small bowl, stir together the strong black coffee, remaining eggnog, and rum. This soak infuses the gingerbread cookies with bold, warming flavors and ensures each bite is laced with that perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and a subtle boozy kick.
Step 4: Layer the Base
Lightly cover the bottom of your 9″ x 7″ casserole dish with 2 tablespoons of the mascarpone cream. This first layer acts as a creamy foundation to hold your gingerbread cookies and subsequent layers together beautifully.
Step 5: Assemble the Layers
Dip each gingerbread man cookie briefly into the coffee mixture, soaking both sides but not letting them get soggy. Arrange about 7-9 cookies on the mascarpone base, then spread half of the remaining mascarpone cream on top. Repeat these layers once more to build that enticing stack of flavors and textures.
Step 6: Finish and Chill
Pipe or spread the remaining whipped cream over the top layer, then cover the dish tightly. Refrigerate overnight to let all the flavors meld beautifully and the textures settle into that luscious tiramisu consistency. Just before serving, a dusting of cocoa or a sprinkle of cookie crumbs adds a lovely finishing touch.
How to Serve Eggnog Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing this Eggnog Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe with a light dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder or a scattering of chocolate sprinkles adds visual appeal and just the right hint of bitterness to balance the sweetness. Crumbled gingerbread men cookies on top provide a charming and crunchy holiday touch.
Side Dishes
This dessert stands wonderfully on its own but pairs beautifully with a cup of fresh, spiced mulled wine or a steaming mug of black coffee. These drinks complement the tiramisu’s spicy and creamy notes without overpowering its delicate flavors, making your hosting game effortlessly elegant.
Creative Ways to Present
Imagine serving this tiramisu in individual clear glasses or mason jars to display the tempting layers. Alternatively, garnish with mini gingerbread men or cinnamon sticks tucked into the whipped cream for a festive, picture-perfect presentation that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Because this Eggnog Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe relies on fresh cream and mascarpone, storing leftovers in the refrigerator is essential. Keep it tightly covered and enjoy it within 2 days for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
While freezing isn’t generally recommended for this tiramisu due to the delicate cream layers, you can freeze it if necessary. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving, though note that the texture may be slightly altered.
Reheating
This dessert is meant to be enjoyed chilled and does not require reheating. Serving it cold enhances the creamy, refreshing notes and keeps the gingerbread crispness just right.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought eggnog for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using store-bought eggnog works perfectly and adds authentic seasonal flavor without any extra prep work, making this recipe even easier to enjoy.
What can I substitute for gingerbread men cookies?
If you can’t find gingerbread men cookies, any sturdy gingerbread or spiced cookie will work. Just make sure they’re firm enough to soak without falling apart.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of this tiramisu?
Yes! Simply omit the rum or replace it with a splash of vanilla extract or additional eggnog for flavor without the alcohol.
Can I use pasteurized eggs for safety?
Using pasteurized eggs is a great option, especially if you’re concerned about raw egg yolks. They help keep the dessert safe while maintaining its creamy texture.
How long do I need to chill before serving?
Chilling the tiramisu overnight or for at least 6 hours is ideal to allow the flavors to meld and the gingerbread to soften perfectly without losing its structure.
Final Thoughts
This Eggnog Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe is a festive treasure that’s perfect for holiday celebrations or any time you want a sweet seasonal treat. Its blend of creamy layers, spicy cookies, and holiday cheer will quickly make it your new favorite dessert to share with friends and family. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be looking for any excuse to make it again soon!
Print
Eggnog Gingerbread Tiramisu Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes prep + overnight chilling (about 8 hours)
- Yield: 8 to 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American Holiday
Description
Eggnog Gingerbread Tiramisu is a festive twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining rich mascarpone cream with holiday flavors of eggnog and gingerbread cookies. This no-bake dessert layers coffee and rum-soaked gingerbread men cookies with a creamy mascarpone mixture, topped with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa for a deliciously creamy and spiced treat perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
Mascarpone Cream
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 1/4 cups mascarpone cheese
- 1/4 cup eggnog (for the cream mixture)
Soaking Mixture
- 1/2 cup eggnog (for soaking)
- 1/2 cup strong black coffee (espresso preferred)
- 1 tbsp light or dark rum
Other Ingredients
- 14–18 gingerbread men cookies (about 4-inch in size)
- Optional: whipped cream, unsweetened cocoa powder, chocolate sprinkles, or gingerbread men cookie crumbs for decoration
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream using an electric mixer or a whisk until stiff peaks form, then set aside for later use.
- Prepare Mascarpone Mixture: In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks and powdered sugar on medium-high speed for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and creamy. Add the mascarpone cheese and mix just until combined. Next, add 1/4 cup eggnog and mix on low speed until smooth and creamy. Finally, gently fold in 1/4 of the whipped cream, then set this mascarpone cream mixture aside.
- Mix Soaking Liquid: In a small bowl, combine the strong black coffee, remaining 1/2 cup eggnog, and rum, stirring well to create the soaking liquid for the cookies.
- Layer Base Cream: Spread 2 tablespoons of the mascarpone cream evenly in the bottom of a 9 x 7 inch casserole dish to lightly cover the base.
- Dip and Arrange Cookies: Quickly dip gingerbread men cookies into the coffee-egg nog-rum mixture on both sides to soak without making them soggy. Arrange about 7-9 cookies (depending on size) over the mascarpone cream layer. Spread half of the remaining mascarpone cream evenly over the cookies. Repeat the dipping and layering process once more to create a second cookie layer topped with the remaining cream.
- Top with Whipped Cream and Chill: Pipe or spread the remaining whipped cream evenly over the top layer of mascarpone cream. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld together. Just before serving, sprinkle the top with unsweetened cocoa powder or decorate with chocolate sprinkles or cookie crumbs as desired. Store any leftovers refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Notes
- Use espresso or very strong coffee for the best flavor in the soaking liquid.
- Dip the gingerbread cookies quickly – too much soaking can result in soggy cookies.
- You can substitute light or dark rum with a rum extract for a non-alcoholic version.
- Make sure to refrigerate overnight for optimal flavor and texture development.
- Garnish creatively with whipped cream, cocoa, or cookie crumbs for an elegant presentation.
