The aroma of freshly brewed Vietnamese coffee wafts through my kitchen, transporting me to bustling street cafes in Vietnam. Today, I’m excited to share my spin on an Italian classic: Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu. This delightful fusion dessert marries the rich, bold essence of Vietnamese coffee with the light, creamy texture of traditional tiramisu. Best of all, this no-bake treat comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for a stress-free gathering or a special dinner at home. Creamy mascarpone filling layered between espresso-soaked ladyfingers creates a heavenly experience that will have your guests coming back for seconds (or thirds). Are you ready to explore this delicious culinary adventure that celebrates two incredible cultures? Let’s dive in!

Why is this dessert so special?

Simplicity: This Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu is a no-bake dessert, making it incredibly easy to assemble, even for beginners.

Flavor Fusion: It combines the rich, bold flavors of Vietnamese coffee with the classic creaminess of tiramisu, creating a unique taste experience.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this dessert impresses guests and satisfies coffee lovers alike. It’s sure to be a hit at your next dinner party!

Texture Delight: The airy mascarpone filling, paired with coffee-soaked ladyfingers, offers a heavenly blend of creamy and soft textures.

Versatile Base: Feel free to experiment; try incorporating flavored coffee liqueurs or even adding a chocolate layer to elevate the flavors.

For more coffee-infused delights, check out my Tiramisu Brownies Coffee or Gilmore Girls Coffee Cake Cookies!

Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu Ingredients

For the Coffee Mixture
• Brewed Coffee – Use strong, brewed Vietnamese coffee for the authentic taste that defines the dessert.
• Amaretto (optional) – Adds a sweet, nutty flavor; you can omit this for pure coffee essence.

For the Mascarpone Filling
• Egg Yolks – Essential for richness; ensure you beat them until pale to avoid a watery custard.
• Condensed Milk – This substitutes traditional sugar, giving sweetness and creaminess without direct flavor alternatives.
• Mascarpone Cheese – A key player in your filling; let it come to room temperature for easy mixing.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth; feel free to swap it with almond extract for a new twist.
• Heavy Cream – Whipping this to stiff peaks ensures a light texture in your filling.

For the Assembly
• Lady Fingers – Lightly dip them in coffee to maintain structure; avoid oversaturation for the best texture.
• Cocoa Powder – Dust this on the top layer for a touch of bitterness that balances the sweetness and adds visual appeal.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu

Step 1: Prepare the Coffee
Begin by brewing a strong cup of Vietnamese coffee to form the flavor base of your Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu. If desired, mix in 2 tablespoons of amaretto for an added layer of sweetness. Pour the coffee into a shallow bowl and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes while you prepare the mascarpone filling.

Step 2: Make Mascarpone Filling
In a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, combine 4 egg yolks and 1 cup of condensed milk. Whisk continuously for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture becomes light yellow and thickens slightly. This step helps to cook the eggs gently and combines the sweet elements of the filling seamlessly. Once done, remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Once the egg yolk mixture has cooled, gently fold in 1 cup of room-temperature mascarpone cheese, 1/4 cup of brewed coffee, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a spatula to mix until fully incorporated and smooth, taking care not to deflate the mixture. This will create the creamy filling that layers beautifully in your Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu.

Step 4: Whip Cream
In a separate chilled bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream until stiff peaks form, which should take about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer. The stiff peaks give the filling a light and airy texture, crucial for a balanced dessert. Once ready, gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, blending them together without losing the fluffiness.

Step 5: Assemble
To assemble the Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu, quickly dip each lady finger into the cooled coffee mixture for about 1 second to soak without oversaturating. Arrange half of the soaked lady fingers in a 9×9 baking dish, ensuring they are lined up neatly. Spread half of the mascarpone filling over the lady fingers, smoothing it out gently.

Step 6: Final Layer
Repeat the layering process by dipping the remaining lady fingers and placing them over the first mascarpone layer, then spread the rest of the filling on top. Use a spatula to make an even surface. Finally, dust the top layer generously with cocoa powder for a finishing touch, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

Step 7: Chill
Cover the assembled Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 6 hours, or preferably overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the dessert to set properly, resulting in a stunning and delicious treat ready to be served.

How to Store and Freeze Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu

Fridge: Keep your Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu tightly covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will maintain its creamy texture and rich flavors.

Freezer: If you wish to store it longer, wrap the tiramisu tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply transfer the frozen tiramisu to the fridge to thaw overnight.

Serving Tip: After thawing, dust with fresh cocoa powder before serving to enhance the presentation and flavor.

Expert Tips for Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu

Choose Quality Coffee: Use strong, freshly brewed Vietnamese coffee for the best flavor. Avoid instant coffee to elevate your Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu experience.
Egg Safety: When whisking egg yolks, ensure you cook them gently over simmering water to avoid raw egg issues. This adds both safety and creaminess.
Proper Whipping: Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This lightens the mascarpone mixture, ensuring a fluffy texture in your Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu.
Avoid Sogginess: Dip lady fingers quickly in the coffee mix, keeping them slightly dry in the center to maintain structural integrity.
Chill Time Matters: Refrigerate overnight for optimal flavor melding. Rushing the chill time may result in a less cohesive dessert.

Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste buds for an even more delightful experience!

Iced Coffee Twist: Substitute traditional brewed coffee with chilled Vietnamese iced coffee for a refreshing flavor change! This version adds a lovely chill that feels like a cool summer sunset.
Chocolate Layer: Add a layer of rich chocolate ganache between the mascarpone layers for an indulgent twist. The harmony of chocolate and coffee creates an irresistible combination that your friends will adore.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace mascarpone with coconut cream and use almond milk coffee. This swap results in a tropical-inspired treat that’s lighter but full of flavor.
Nutty Addition: Stir in finely chopped hazelnuts or almonds into the mascarpone mixture. This adds an enjoyable crunch and enhances the dessert’s overall flavor profile with a nutty essence.
Spiced Touch: Mix in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg into your coffee mixture before dipping the ladyfingers. The warmth from these spices elevates the classic tiramisu experience.
Flavored Liqueurs: Try using flavored coffee liqueurs like hazelnut or caramel instead of amaretto. This simple swap introduces exciting new dimensions to your dessert.
Fruit Fusion: Layer in fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries between the mascarpone layers. The tartness of the fruit balances the creaminess beautifully.

For more heavenly coffee-infused delights, check out my Tiramisu Brownies Coffee or take a bite out of my Gilmore Girls Coffee Cake Cookies.

What to Serve with Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu?

Experience the harmony of flavors as you craft a delicious full meal around this coffee-infused dessert.

Rich Chocolate Mousse: This creamy dessert offers a silky texture that complements the coffee flavors while providing a decadent finish.
Coconut Sticky Rice: The subtle sweetness and chewy texture contrast beautifully with the creamy mascarpone layers, adding an exciting crunch to your meal.
Espresso Martini: Enhance the coffee experience with this vibrant cocktail, perfectly pairing with the tiramisu’s rich flavor profile for a delightful after-dinner drink.
Crispy Spring Rolls: Light and fresh, these savory bites provide a crunchy texture that balances the creamy tiramisu, creating an exciting contrast of sensations.
Mixed Berry Compote: The tartness of the berries cuts through the richness of the tiramisu, adding a refreshing tartness that’s simply irresistible.
Grilled Pineapple: Adding a tropical twist, the warm, caramelized pineapple brings out the coffee’s sweetness while providing a touch of freshness to the meal.
Iced Vietnamese Coffee: For true coffee enthusiasts, this chilled version will enhance the coffee experience while showcasing the dessert’s vibrant flavors.

Make Ahead Options

These Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the mascarpone filling and soak the ladyfingers up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. To do this, make the filling and layer it with coffee-soaked ladyfingers, covering it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. For optimal quality, it’s best to add the cocoa powder just before serving to maintain its appearance and texture. When ready to enjoy, simply slice into squares and garnish with the cocoa for a refreshing touch. This makes it a stress-free dessert for busy weeknights or special gatherings!

Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu Recipe FAQs

What type of coffee should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For an authentic Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu, I recommend using strong, brewed Vietnamese coffee. This coffee type brings the rich, bold flavors that define this dessert. Avoid instant coffee, as it doesn’t deliver the depth and aroma you’ll want in your final dish.

How should I store my Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu?
Very! You can keep your Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s tightly covered to preserve its creamy texture and mouthwatering taste. If you want to store it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, and it can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu?
Absolutely! To freeze your Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu, cover it well with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the tiramisu in the fridge overnight. This gentle thawing maintains the creamy texture and flavors.

What if my mascarpone filling is too runny?
Ah, no worries! If your mascarpone filling seems runny, you can whip the heavy cream longer to achieve stiffer peaks before folding it into the mascarpone mixture. Additionally, ensure you’ve cooked the egg yolks long enough while whisking over simmering water to thicken the mixture. This process is crucial for achieving that luxurious texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Definitely! Since this Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu contains ingredients like egg yolks and dairy (mascarpone cheese and heavy cream), it’s best not to share it with pets, particularly dogs, as these ingredients can cause digestive issues. If you or your guests have allergies, always double-check the ingredients like amaretto and ensure they fit within dietary needs. You might consider a vegan option by experimenting with plant-based substitutes for the mascarpone and cream.

Can I modify any ingredients to customize the flavor?
Very! Feel free to get creative with your Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu. You can swap out amaretto for a different liqueur, or even add a chocolate layer between the mascarpone fillings for a rich twist. If you’d like a nuttier flavor, consider using a dash of almond extract instead of vanilla for an unexpected delight!