Tiramisu Crepe Cake Recipe

This Tiramisu Crepe Cake is an elegant dessert that artfully combines two beloved classics: tiramisu and crepes. The delicate crepes are layered with a rich, creamy tiramisu filling, creating a cake that is light yet decadent. A cocoa-dusted whipped cream topping adds the finishing touch to this sophisticated treat. Not only is this cake a delight to eat, but it also offers an enjoyable culinary challenge to those who love to cook and bake.

Photos of Tiramisu Crepe Cake Recipe

Mascarpone Cheese and Espresso Powder might not be common pantry staples. Mascarpone is a creamy Italian cheese that's often used in desserts. It has a rich, subtly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the light, delicate crepes. Espresso powder, on the other hand, is intensely dark and concentrated, providing the classic coffee flavor found in tiramisu. Both can usually be found in the cheese and coffee aisles of your local supermarket respectively.

Ingredients for Tiramisu Crepe Cake

Unsalted butter: Used in both the crepe batter and to grease the pan for cooking the crepes.

All-purpose flour: The base ingredient for the crepe batter.

Granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crepe batter.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the crepes and filling.

Whole milk: Adds richness to the crepe batter.

Water: Thins out the crepe batter to achieve the desired consistency.

Eggs: Helps bind the ingredients together in the crepe batter.

Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of vanilla flavor to both the crepe batter and the tiramisu filling.

Espresso powder: Gives the tiramisu filling its classic coffee flavor.

Heavy cream: Used in the tiramisu filling to create a rich, creamy texture.

Rum: Adds depth of flavor to the tiramisu filling.

Mascarpone: The key ingredient in tiramisu filling, providing rich, creamy texture and subtle sweetness.

Confectioners’ sugar: Used to sweeten the tiramisu filling and the whipped cream topping.

Cocoa powder: Dusts between the layers and the top of the cake for a delicate chocolate flavor.

One reader, Fredelia Hiller says:

This tiramisu crepe cake recipe is a game-changer! The crepes are light and delicate, and the tiramisu filling is heavenly. The layers come together beautifully, and the whipped cream topping adds the perfect touch. It's a show-stopper dessert that's sure to impress!

Fredelia Hiller

Techniques Required for Making Tiramisu Crepe Cake

How to make crepes: The process of making crepes involves blending butter, flour, sugar, salt, milk, water, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. The batter is then chilled, and each crepe is cooked in a skillet, flipping once the bottom is set.

How to prepare tiramisu filling: This involves mixing espresso powder with water, whipping heavy cream and rum until medium peaks form, and then combining mascarpone, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and the cooled espresso liquid. The whipped cream is then folded into the mascarpone mixture.

How to assemble the cake: The cake is assembled by spreading a small amount of filling on the cake stand, layering crepes with filling and dusting with cocoa powder, and topping with the final crepe.

How to make whipped cream topping: This involves whipping heavy cream, rum, and confectioners’ sugar until medium peaks form, and then spreading or piping the whipped cream on top of the cake.

How to refrigerate the cake: The cake needs to be refrigerated for at least 3 hours and up to 1 day before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set.

How To Make Tiramisu Crepe Cake

Topped with velvety whipped cream, this delicate tiramisu crepe cake is filled with espresso flavored filling in each layer of 25 paper-thin crepes.

Preparation: 1 hour

Cooking: 1 hour

Chill Time: 3 hours

Total: 5 hours

Serves:

Ingredients

6tbspunsalted butter,plus 5 tbsp more for the pan
2cupsall-purpose flour,spoon and leveled
¼cupgranulated sugar
¼tspsalt
2cupswhole milk,at room temperature
½cupwater,at room temperature
4large eggs,at room temperature
2tsppure vanilla extract

For Tiramisu Filling:

2tspespresso powder
2tspwater,warm
1½cupsheavy cream,cold
1tbsprum,or Grand Marnier, optional
8ozmascarpone,cold or at room temperature
1cupconfectioners’ sugar
1tsppure vanilla extract
¼cupcocoa powder,unsweetened natural or dutch-process, optional

For Whipped Cream Topping:

½cupheavy cream,cold
1tbsprum,or Grand Marnier, optional
2tbspconfectioners’ sugar
1tspcocoa powder,unsweetened natural or dutch-process, optional

Instructions

Crepes:

Melt 6 tablespoons of butter in the microwave or on the stove. Cool for about 5 minutes before using in the next step.
Add the cooled melted butter, flour, sugar, salt, milk, water, eggs, and vanilla in a blender or large food processor. Blend on medium-high speed for 20 to 30 seconds until everything is combined.
The mixture will be silky smooth and the consistency of cream, much thinner than pancake batter. Cover the blender tightly or pour into a medium bowl, cover tightly, and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour and up to 1 day.
Use the remaining butter for greasing the pan between each crepe. Place an 8-inch skillet over medium heat and generously grease it with some of the reserved butter.
Once the skillet is hot, pour 3 to 4 tablespoons of batter into the center of the pan. Tilt/twirl the pan so the batter stretches as far as it will go. The thinner the crepe, the better the texture. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, then flip as soon as the bottom is set.
Cook the other side for 30 seconds until set. Transfer the cooked crepe to a large plate and repeat with the remaining batter, making sure to butter the pan between each crepe.
Loosely cover and set crepes aside at room temperature while preparing the tiramisu filling. Crepes must be room temperature or cold before you begin assembling the cake.

Tiramisu Filling:

Using a fork, mix the espresso powder and warm water together in a very small bowl. Set aside to cool down for a few minutes.
Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, whip the heavy cream and rum together on medium-high speed for about 3 to 4 minutes until medium peaks form. Set whipped cream aside.
With a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle or whisk attachment, beat the mascarpone, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and cooled espresso liquid together on medium speed in a large bowl for about 2 minutes until combined and smooth.
Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture. Use filling immediately.

Cake:

Spread 1 to 2 teaspoons of filling on the center of your cake stand or cake serving plate. This helps adhere the cake to the plate.
Place a crepe on top. Spread about 2 heaping tablespoons of filling evenly on top. If desired, dust with cocoa powder. Repeat layering crepes, filling, and a dusting of cocoa powder. Top with final and last crepe.

Whipped Cream Topping:

Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, whip the heavy cream, rum, and confectioners’ sugar together on medium-high speed for about 3 to 4 minutes until medium peaks form.
Spread or pipe whipped cream on top of the cake. If you have extra, feel free to spread it all around the sides of the cake too. If desired, dust with cocoa powder.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 3 hours and up to 1 day before serving.
Serve and enjoy.

Recipe Notes

If desired, while cooking crepes, separate each cooked crepe with parchment paper so they do not stick together.

Nutrition

Calories: 674.93kcal
Fat: 45.43g
Saturated Fat: 26.85g
Trans Fat: 0.36g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.61g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.29g
Carbohydrates: 54.89g
Fiber: 1.92g
Sugar: 28.95g
Protein: 11.85g
Cholesterol: 234.70mg
Sodium: 264.29mg
Calcium: 161.31mg
Potassium: 283.45mg
Iron: 2.46mg
Vitamin A: 489.21µg
Vitamin C: 0.36mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Tiramisu Crepe Cake Layers

To ensure your crepes are thin and delicate, it's important to swirl the batter around the pan immediately after pouring it in. This will help spread the batter evenly, creating a thin layer that cooks quickly and evenly. Also, remember to grease the pan between each crepe to prevent sticking. If your crepes are tearing, it may be because they are too thick or the pan isn't properly greased. Practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first few crepes aren't perfect.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Tiramisu Crepe Cake

Prep ahead: Make the crepe batter and tiramisu filling the day before. This will save time on the day of assembly.

Double up: Cook multiple crepes at once in two pans to speed up the process.

Chill quickly: Place the assembled cake in the freezer for 30 minutes to set the layers faster.

Organized workspace: Set up a workstation with all ingredients and tools within reach to streamline the assembly process.

Team effort: Enlist a friend or family member to help with the crepe cooking and assembly for a quicker process.

Substitute Ingredients For Tiramisu Crepe Cake Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the recipe, and it can be used as a 1:1 substitute for butter in baking.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour: If you need a gluten-free option, using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend can work well in this recipe without compromising the texture or flavor.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a 1:1 replacement for granulated sugar and adds a slightly caramel-like flavor to the recipe.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative in this recipe, providing a subtle nutty flavor and creamy texture.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs (for vegan option): To make this recipe vegan-friendly, you can use flax eggs as a substitute for regular eggs. To make one flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
espresso powder - Substitute with strongly brewed coffee: If you don't have espresso powder on hand, you can use strongly brewed coffee as a substitute to infuse the tiramisu filling with coffee flavor.
mascarpone - Substitute with cream cheese: Cream cheese can be used as a substitute for mascarpone in tiramisu filling, providing a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream, providing a rich and creamy texture to the filling and topping.
rum - Substitute with rum extract: If you prefer to omit alcohol, you can use rum extract to add the flavor of rum without the actual alcohol content.
confectioners’ sugar - Substitute with powdered erythritol: For a lower-carb option, powdered erythritol can be used as a substitute for confectioners' sugar in the filling and topping.
cocoa powder - Substitute with cacao powder: Cacao powder can be used as a healthier alternative to cocoa powder, providing a rich chocolate flavor and added nutritional benefits.

Presenting Your Tiramisu Crepe Cake

Elevate the crepe cake layers: Gently layer each crepe with precision, ensuring that the layers are evenly stacked and aligned for a visually stunning presentation.
Artful tiramisu filling placement: Carefully spread and layer the tiramisu filling between each crepe, ensuring an even distribution and a visually appealing pattern.
Dust with cocoa powder: Using a fine sieve, delicately dust the top of the crepe cake with cocoa powder, creating a beautiful and uniform layer of cocoa across the top.
Whipped cream swirls: Skillfully pipe whipped cream on top of the cake, creating elegant and intricate swirls that add a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Garnish with chocolate shavings: Sprinkle the top of the cake with delicate chocolate shavings, adding a touch of elegance and a hint of decadence to the overall presentation.
Arrange fresh berries: Artfully arrange a selection of fresh berries around the base of the crepe cake, adding a pop of color and a refreshing visual element to the presentation.
Use a cake stand: Present the crepe cake on a beautiful cake stand, elevating the dessert and creating a focal point that showcases the layers and artistry of the dish.
Add edible flowers: Carefully place edible flowers on top of the crepe cake, adding a touch of natural beauty and a visually stunning element to the presentation.
Incorporate gold leaf accents: For an opulent touch, delicately place edible gold leaf accents on the crepe cake, adding a luxurious and extravagant flair to the overall presentation.
Serve with a side of espresso: Accompany the crepe cake with a side of freshly brewed espresso, enhancing the overall dining experience and providing a complementary beverage to the indulgent dessert.

Essential Tools for Making a Tiramisu Crepe Cake

Blender: A kitchen appliance used to blend, purée, or emulsify food and other substances.
Skillet: A frying pan with a long handle, typically used for frying or sautéing foods.
Hand mixer: A handheld kitchen appliance used to mix, beat, and whip ingredients.
Stand mixer: A countertop appliance with a mixing head that can be raised or lowered, used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients.
Whisk attachment: An attachment for a stand mixer used for whisking and incorporating air into mixtures.
Paddle attachment: An attachment for a stand mixer used for mixing and creaming ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Tiramisu Crepe Cake

Cover leftover cake and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If your cake has already been sliced, cover and store the leftover slices in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
You can freeze the assembled cake before adding the whipped cream on top. Wrap the assembled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator, then top with whipped cream and cocoa powder before serving.
You can also freeze the crepes and filling separately for up to 3 months in freezer containers. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
You can also freeze leftover individual slices for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature before enjoying.

Random Fact About Tiramisu Crepe Cake

The Tiramisu Crepe Cake is a delightful fusion of Italian and French cuisine, combining the flavors of tiramisu with the delicate layers of crepes. This dessert is a perfect example of how different culinary traditions can come together to create something truly unique and delicious. The combination of espresso, rum, mascarpone, and cocoa in this cake offers a delightful treat for those with a sweet tooth. Whether enjoyed as a special occasion dessert or a weekend indulgence, this cake is sure to impress with its elegant layers and rich flavors.

Is Making Tiramisu Crepe Cake at Home Economical?

The cost-effectiveness of this tiramisu crepe cake recipe depends on the availability and price of ingredients in your area. While mascarpone and espresso powder can be pricier, the overall cost can be balanced by using more affordable options for other ingredients. With careful planning and budgeting, this indulgent dessert can be a delightful treat for a household. Rating: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4: $25-$30.

Is Tiramisu Crepe Cake Healthy or Unhealthy?

The tiramisu crepe cake recipe, while indulgent and delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

High in saturated fat: The recipe uses significant amounts of butter, heavy cream, and mascarpone cheese, which are all high in saturated fat. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
High in sugar: The recipe calls for granulated sugar, confectioners' sugar, and the natural sugars found in the mascarpone cheese. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and other health problems.
Refined carbohydrates: All-purpose flour, used in the crepe batter, is a refined carbohydrate that can cause blood sugar spikes and contribute to inflammation in the body.
Alcohol content: The recipe includes rum, which adds extra calories and may not be suitable for everyone.

To make this recipe healthier, you could try the following modifications:

Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour to increase the fiber content and reduce refined carbohydrates.
Use low-fat milk instead of whole milk in the crepe batter to reduce the overall fat content.
Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling by using less confectioners' sugar or substituting it with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
Replace some of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt, which is lower in fat and higher in protein.
Use a smaller amount of mascarpone cheese or substitute it with a lower-fat alternative like ricotta cheese.
Omit the rum to reduce the alcohol content and extra calories.
Increase the espresso powder in the filling to enhance the coffee flavor without adding extra calories.
Serve smaller portions and pair the cake with fresh berries to add nutrients and fiber.

Editor's Thoughts on This Tiramisu Crepe Cake Recipe

The Tiramisu Crepe Cake recipe is a delightful fusion of classic tiramisu and delicate crepes. The methodical layering of silky crepes and luscious tiramisu filling creates a visually stunning and decadent dessert. The balance of flavors from the espresso-infused mascarpone filling to the light and airy crepes is truly exquisite. The addition of a rum-infused whipped cream topping adds a luxurious touch. Overall, this recipe promises a sophisticated and indulgent treat that will surely impress any dessert connoisseur.

Enhance Your Tiramisu Crepe Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: For a refreshing and tangy side, try grilling some asparagus and finishing it off with a sprinkle of lemon zest for a burst of flavor.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Create a sweet and savory side by roasting Brussels sprouts and drizzling them with a balsamic glaze for a delicious twist on a classic vegetable dish.

Honey Garlic Glazed Carrots: Elevate your meal with some honey garlic glazed carrots, adding a touch of sweetness and savory flavor to your plate.

Sautéed Spinach with Garlic and Pine Nuts: Add some depth to your meal with sautéed spinach, infused with garlic and topped with crunchy pine nuts for a delightful texture and taste.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Tiramisu Crepe Cake

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Grilled vegetable skewers are a perfect way to enjoy a variety of colorful and flavorful veggies. Simply marinate your favorite vegetables, thread them onto skewers, and grill to perfection for a healthy and delicious side dish or main course.

Braised Beef Short Ribs: Braised beef short ribs are a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Slow-cook the tender beef ribs in a rich and flavorful sauce until they are fall-off-the-bone tender. Serve with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a satisfying meal.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and tropical dessert that is both healthy and delicious. Combine chia seeds, coconut milk, and fresh mango puree for a creamy and satisfying pudding that is perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Tiramisu Crepe Cake

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. The combination of earthy mushrooms, creamy cheese, and flavorful herbs will leave everyone wanting more. Perfect for any gathering or dinner party.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with these fresh and vibrant bruschetta. The juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tangy balsamic glaze come together to create a burst of flavor in every bite. A delightful way to start any meal.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Creamy and indulgent, this classic Italian dish features tender chicken and al dente pasta smothered in a rich and savory Alfredo sauce. The perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.

Beef Stroganoff: Tender strips of beef, sautéed mushrooms, and onions in a creamy, flavorful sauce, served over a bed of buttery egg noodles. A hearty and satisfying dish that's sure to please the whole family.

Why trust this Tiramisu Crepe Cake Recipe:

This Tiramisu Crepe Cake recipe is a delightful fusion of classic tiramisu and delicate crepes, offering a unique and indulgent dessert experience. The crepes are made with a silky smooth batter, ensuring a light and tender texture. The tiramisu filling features a perfect balance of espresso powder and rum, creating an authentic and rich flavor. The addition of mascarpone and confectioners' sugar results in a luscious and creamy consistency. Topped with a decadent whipped cream infused with rum, this cake promises to elevate any occasion with its irresistible layers of flavor and texture.

Want to share your experience making this Tiramisu Crepe Cake or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

Can I make the crepes ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the crepes ahead of time. After cooking the crepes, you can stack them with parchment paper in between each crepe and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Can I substitute the rum in the filling and topping?

Absolutely! If you prefer not to use rum, you can substitute it with an equal amount of rum extract or simply omit it altogether. The tiramisu filling and whipped cream topping will still be delicious without it.

Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso powder?

Yes, you can use instant coffee as a substitute for espresso powder. Simply dissolve 2 teaspoons of instant coffee in 2 teaspoons of hot water and use it in place of the espresso powder in the tiramisu filling.

How long can the tiramisu crepe cake be stored?

The tiramisu crepe cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any other flavors in the fridge.

Can I freeze the tiramisu crepe cake?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the tiramisu crepe cake for up to 1 month. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.