Rich and creamy, these Quick Tiramisu Trifles are an easy dessert that makes entertaining a breeze.
One of the first things we did when we bought our house some two decades ago was have a dining room table custom made. I wanted something special, full of character, and large enough to accommodate at least eight diners. Today, when I think back to all the beautiful meals and wonderful people who have graced that table, I am overcome with a feeling of joy and gratitude. Weathered by the hands of time, that otherwise simple piece of furniture is now full of wine stains and little scratches, not to mention memorable stories. It’s truly one of my favorite things in our house.
The reason I wanted a special table is because there’s nothing I enjoy more than entertaining. Just the thought of having a group of friends and family sharing a meal with us at our candlelit table makes me want to pick up pen and paper and plan an elaborate six-course dinner complete with matching wines. But don’t let that fool you. Elaborate doesn’t mean I spend hours in the kitchen, and certainly not when my guests are at the table. Nothing is worse than having to hide away in the kitchen while everyone is at the table enjoying themselves. And that’s why preparation is key. That, and having a selection of easy and delicious make-ahead recipes up your sleeve.
This quick tiramisu trifle is a perfect example of a fuss-free dessert recipe. It’s a breeze to make, doesn’t require fancy ingredients or techniques, and can easily sit in your fridge overnight. Its robust coffee flavor, velvety layers of tangy cream, and hint of cocoa make this an incredibly rich and elegant finale to any meal, especially one with Italian-inspired flavors.
Make it a raspberry tiramisu trifle
In the mood for something a little different? Make a raspberry tiramisu trifle instead! Simply replace the espresso and rum with a half cup of raspberry juice mixed with five tablespoons of limoncello. This delightfully tangy mixture will be the soaking liquid for your ladyfingers. You’ll also need one cup of a good-quality raspberry jam to layer on top of the cookies before adding the cream. Omit the cocoa powder and finish with a scattering of fresh raspberries and some fresh lemon zest instead.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be tightly covered with plastic and placed in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy layers may be rendered grainy or separate upon thawing.
Serving suggestions
As mentioned, these lovely tiramisu trifles will be the perfect ending to an easy yet elegant Italian-inspired dinner. Welcome your guests with a drink and a nibble consisting of Parmesan Crisps topped with a little Homemade Basil Pesto and a zucchini ribbon or a dab of Tomato Relish and some prosciutto. Serve our Tomato Basil Soup as a starter and follow with this Italian Baked Chicken as your main, preferably with a side of these irresistible Delmonico Potatoes.
Quick Tiramisu Trifles
Ingredients Â
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 7 tablespoons sugar divided
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup espresso
- 1 tablespoon rum
- 24 ladyfingers
- Cocoa powder for dusting
InstructionsÂ
- Mix the mascarpone in a medium bowl with 3 tablespoons of the sugar. Whip the heavy cream in a large bowl with the other 4 tablespoons of sugar until fluffy.
- Gently fold the sweetened mascarpone into the whipped cream.
- Mix the espresso and rum in a baking dish. Dip both sides of the ladyfingers into the mixture.
- Place 2 soaked ladyfingers at the base of each glass. You might need to break them in half.
- Layer with half of the cream mixture. Repeat with another layer of 2 ladyfingers and finish with a layer of cream.
- Sprinkle the top with cocoa powder.
- Allow to chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour or overnight.
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