How to Make Vegan Tiramisu – A Creamy & Indulgent Recipe

What is Vegan Tiramisu?

Tiramisu is a beloved Italian dessert known for its rich, creamy layers, delicate coffee-soaked sponge, and a dusting of cocoa powder on top. Traditionally, tiramisu is made with mascarpone cheese, eggs, heavy cream, and ladyfingers, which are soaked in espresso and layered for a decadent treat. However, for those following a vegan lifestyle, a dairy-free and egg-free alternative is needed—one that retains the signature creaminess and bold coffee flavors of the classic dessert.

A Dairy-Free & Eggless Twist on the Classic

Vegan tiramisu removes all animal-based ingredients while keeping the dessert’s signature taste and texture. Instead of mascarpone cheese, we use a blend of cashews, coconut cream, and plant-based milk to achieve the same creamy consistency. Instead of eggs and heavy cream, the filling is thickened with blended nuts, silken tofu, or dairy-free yogurt, depending on preference. The ladyfingers, which traditionally contain eggs, can be replaced with vegan sponge cake, store-bought vegan ladyfingers, or even oat-based cookies.

One of the biggest challenges in making tiramisu vegan is maintaining its rich, velvety mouthfeel, but thanks to plant-based alternatives, it’s completely achievable without compromising on flavor!

Key Ingredients for a Vegan Tiramisu

To make the perfect vegan tiramisu, you’ll need a few key ingredients that mimic the creamy, coffee-soaked layers of the traditional dessert. Here are the essential components:

1. Vegan Mascarpone Substitute

Mascarpone is a key ingredient in traditional tiramisu, providing the smooth and rich texture. In this vegan version, we can replicate it with:

Cashew Cream – Soaked cashews blended with plant-based milk for a naturally creamy texture.
Coconut Whipped Cream – Adds fluffiness and a slight sweetness.
Silken Tofu (Optional) – Helps thicken the mascarpone layer while keeping it light.
Maple Syrup or Agave – Used as a natural sweetener instead of refined sugar.

2. Espresso or Coffee Soak

Tiramisu gets its signature bold coffee flavor from espresso-soaked ladyfingers. For a vegan-friendly soak:

Strong Espresso or Cold Brew – Use freshly brewed espresso for an intense flavor.
Decaf Option – For a caffeine-free version, use decaf espresso.

3. Vegan Ladyfingers or Sponge Alternative

Traditional ladyfingers contain eggs, but there are great vegan alternatives:

Homemade Vegan Ladyfingers – Made using almond flour, applesauce, and plant-based milk.
Vegan Sponge Cake – A light and airy cake made from whole wheat or oat flour.
Oat or Biscuit-Based Layers – Some recipes use crushed biscuits or oat-based cookies for a unique twist.

4. Cocoa Powder for Dusting

The final touch to any tiramisu is a generous dusting of cocoa powder, which adds a slightly bitter contrast to the creamy layers. Always opt for unsweetened cocoa powder to maintain the authentic taste.

Ingredients You Need for the Best Vegan Tiramisu

Creating the perfect vegan tiramisu requires a combination of rich, creamy, and flavorful ingredients that replicate the indulgent taste and texture of the classic Italian dessert. The key is to use plant-based alternatives that mimic the creamy mascarpone layer, the coffee-soaked sponge, and the signature cocoa topping. Here’s everything you need to make the best dairy-free and egg-free tiramisu at home.

Vegan Mascarpone Layer

The mascarpone layer is what gives tiramisu its signature creamy texture. Since traditional mascarpone is made from heavy cream and cheese, we need a plant-based alternative that delivers the same richness. Here’s how to create a silky smooth vegan mascarpone layer:

Cashew Cream – Soaked cashews are blended with plant-based milk to create a creamy, neutral-flavored base. They help mimic the thick and rich consistency of mascarpone.
Coconut Whipped Cream – Full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream is whipped to add fluffiness and a light, airy texture. It provides a slight natural sweetness and enhances the overall creaminess.
Maple Syrup or Agave – Instead of refined sugar, natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar work beautifully. They add just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Vanilla Extract – A splash of vanilla extract enhances the flavor profile, giving the mascarpone layer a warm, slightly sweet aroma.

Optional Additions:

Almond or Oat Milk – Helps adjust the consistency if the mascarpone mixture is too thick.
Silken Tofu (Optional) – Some recipes use blended silken tofu to create an extra smooth and creamy texture while keeping the recipe nut-free.

Coffee-Soaked Layers

One of tiramisu’s most recognizable features is its deliciously soaked sponge layers. This step gives the dessert its bold coffee flavor while keeping it soft and melt-in-your-mouth. Here’s what you’ll need:

Espresso or Strong Coffee – A good-quality espresso or a strong brewed coffee forms the base for the soaking liquid. It infuses the dessert with rich, deep coffee flavors.
Plant-Based Milk – Adding a little almond, oat, or soy milk to the espresso creates a balanced and smoother soak for the sponge layers.
Vegan Ladyfingers or Sponge Cake – Traditional ladyfingers contain eggs, so you’ll need a vegan-friendly alternative:
- Store-Bought Vegan Ladyfingers – Some brands offer egg-free ladyfingers.
- Homemade Vegan Ladyfingers – Made using almond flour, applesauce, and plant-based milk.
- Vegan Sponge Cake – A soft and airy plant-based sponge cake made from oat flour, almond flour, or whole wheat flour can work as a great alternative.
- Biscuit or Oat-Based Layers – Some recipes use oat cookies or crushed vanilla biscuits for a unique take on the tiramisu layers.

💡 Pro Tip: Be careful not to over-soak the sponge layers—a quick dip in the coffee mixture is enough to prevent the dessert from becoming soggy.

Final Touch

The finishing touches bring everything together, creating the classic tiramisu experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cocoa Powder Dusting – A generous dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder on top adds the signature bitter-sweet flavor contrast.
Optional Chocolate Shavings – To add an extra layer of richness, vegan dark chocolate shavings or grated dairy-free chocolate can be sprinkled on top.
Chilled and Set for Perfection – Tiramisu tastes best after being chilled for at least 4–6 hours (preferably overnight) to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

By carefully selecting these plant-based ingredients, you can recreate the indulgent, creamy, and flavorful layers of classic tiramisu—without any dairy or eggs! This vegan version is so rich and delicious that even non-vegans will love it.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Vegan Tiramisu

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process of making the perfect vegan tiramisu. This guide will help you recreate the creamy, coffee-infused layers of this indulgent Italian dessert—without using dairy or eggs!

Step 1: Make the Vegan Mascarpone Cream

The mascarpone filling is the heart of tiramisu, giving it that signature rich and creamy texture. Since traditional mascarpone is made from dairy, we will create a vegan alternative using a blend of nuts, plant-based milk, and coconut cream.

How to Make Vegan Mascarpone:

Soak the Cashews – Place 1 cup of raw cashews in a bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them soak for 15–20 minutes to soften.
Blend the Creamy Base – Drain the soaked cashews and add them to a high-speed blender or food processor along with:
- ½ cup full-fat coconut cream (for extra richness)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar (for natural sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for flavor depth)
- ¼ cup plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy) (to adjust consistency)
Blend Until Smooth – Blend on high speed until the mixture becomes thick, creamy, and smooth. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Taste & Adjust – If you prefer a sweeter mascarpone, add another 1 tbsp of maple syrup. If it’s too thick, add a splash of plant-based milk to loosen it up.
Chill – Transfer the mascarpone cream to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes while preparing the rest of the layers.

💡 Pro Tip: If you want a tangier mascarpone, you can add 1 tsp of lemon juice to mimic the slight acidity of traditional mascarpone cheese.

Step 2: Prepare the Coffee Soak & Layers

Now that your vegan mascarpone cream is ready, it’s time to prepare the coffee soak and sponge layers—an essential step that gives tiramisu its deep espresso flavor.

How to Prepare the Coffee Soak:

Brew Strong Espresso – Make ¾ cup of freshly brewed espresso (or very strong coffee). If you don’t have an espresso machine, use a French press or instant espresso powder dissolved in hot water.
Let It Cool – Set the coffee soak aside to cool to room temperature.

Want the best coffee for desserts? Check out this guide!

How to Prepare the Vegan Ladyfingers or Sponge Alternative:

Use Store-Bought Vegan Ladyfingers – If you have access to vegan ladyfingers, place them in a shallow dish, ready for soaking.
Make a Quick Vegan Sponge Cake – If you don’t have vegan ladyfingers, you can use:
- A homemade vanilla sponge cake (baked and cut into strips)
- Oat or almond-based cookies as an alternative
Soak the Ladyfingers/Sponge – One by one, quickly dip each ladyfinger or sponge cake strip into the coffee soak for 1–2 seconds per side. Be careful not to oversoak, as they will become too soggy and fall apart.

💡 Pro Tip: If using sponge cake, brush the coffee soak on instead of dipping to prevent over-saturation.

Step 3: Assemble & Chill

Now that all your layers are prepared, it’s time to assemble the tiramisu and let it set for the ultimate creamy, coffee-infused experience.

How to Layer Vegan Tiramisu:

Start with a Base Layer of Soaked Ladyfingers – Arrange a layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers or sponge cake at the bottom of a square dish (8×8 inches works well).
Add a Generous Layer of Vegan Mascarpone Cream – Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers using a spatula.
Repeat the Layers – Add another layer of soaked ladyfingers, followed by the remaining mascarpone cream, smoothing the top.
Dust with Cocoa Powder – Using a fine-mesh sieve, dust the top layer with a generous amount of unsweetened cocoa powder for the classic tiramisu finish.

Step 4: Refrigerate for the Best Flavor

Tiramisu is best after it has chilled and the flavors have melded together.

Cover and Chill – Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4–6 hours, preferably overnight.
Serve & Enjoy! – Once set, slice into squares and serve. For an extra touch, garnish with vegan chocolate shavings or a dusting of cinnamon.

💡 Pro Tip: Chilling overnight enhances the coffee flavor and allows the mascarpone to firm up, giving you the perfect creamy texture.

Tips for the Perfect Vegan Tiramisu

Making vegan tiramisu at home is easier than you think, but a few expert tips can help you achieve the best texture and flavor. Whether you’re looking for ingredient swaps, storage advice, or creative variations, these tips will ensure your tiramisu turns out creamy, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible every time.

Best Substitutes for Traditional Ingredients

Traditional tiramisu relies on mascarpone cheese, eggs, heavy cream, and ladyfingers—all of which need vegan-friendly alternatives. Here are the best substitutes to use:

1. Vegan Alternative for Mascarpone Cheese

Cashew Cream – Blend soaked cashews with coconut cream for a smooth, rich mascarpone-like consistency.
Silken Tofu – Adds a light and fluffy texture while keeping the recipe nut-free.
Dairy-Free Yogurt & Coconut Cream Combo – Mixing full-fat vegan yogurt with coconut cream creates a tangy, creamy substitute.

2. Egg-Free Sponge or Vegan Ladyfingers

If you can’t find store-bought vegan ladyfingers, try these alternatives:

Homemade Vegan Ladyfingers – Made using almond flour, oat flour, applesauce, and plant-based milk for a soft texture.
Almond Flour Sponge Cake – A great grain-free alternative that absorbs espresso beautifully.
Oat or Vanilla Cookies – Crushed or whole oat-based cookies work well in place of ladyfingers.
Gluten-Free Sponge Cake – Made with a mix of almond flour and tapioca flour for a light, airy texture.

💡 Pro Tip: If using sponge cake instead of ladyfingers, lightly brush the coffee mixture over it instead of soaking it to prevent it from becoming too soggy.

3. Coffee & Liqueur Substitutes

Decaf Espresso – If you’re avoiding caffeine, use decaf espresso or strong brewed chicory coffee for a similar deep flavor.
Non-Alcoholic Coffee Syrup – If you want to skip liqueur, replace it with a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract mixed with coffee.

How to Store & Serve

Proper storage and preparation can enhance the flavors of tiramisu, making it even better the next day! Here’s how to store, serve, and make it ahead for the best results.

1. Storing Vegan Tiramisu

Refrigeration: Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and chill for at least 4-6 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the mascarpone layer to firm up.
Shelf Life: Vegan tiramisu stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The longer it sits, the better it tastes!
Avoid Freezing: While some desserts freeze well, tiramisu does not due to the high moisture content in the coffee-soaked layers. Freezing can make it too soggy once thawed.

2. Serving Tips

Dust with Cocoa Powder Just Before Serving – This keeps the cocoa layer from absorbing moisture and changing texture.
Slice with a Sharp Knife – For clean, neat slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
Pair with a Hot Drink – Vegan tiramisu pairs beautifully with a cup of espresso, chai tea, or almond milk latte.

💡 Pro Tip: If making tiramisu ahead of time, store it covered in the fridge for 24 hours before serving for maximum flavor infusion.

For more vegan dessert recipes, check out this collection!

You can also find out another recipe: Easy Homemade Gluten-Free Vegan Tiramisu Recipe

Variations & Customizations

Tiramisu is versatile, and you can easily tweak the recipe to fit different dietary preferences or add extra layers of flavor!

1. Gluten-Free Vegan Tiramisu

For a gluten-free version:

Use gluten-free sponge cake made with almond flour, tapioca starch, and oat flour.
Opt for gluten-free vanilla cookies instead of ladyfingers.

💡 Pro Tip: Let gluten-free layers sit longer in the fridge to fully absorb the flavors.

For more gluten-free vegan dessert, check out t his recipe!

2. Nut-Free Vegan Tiramisu

To make the recipe nut-free:

Replace cashew cream with silken tofu or dairy-free yogurt for a creamy consistency.
Use oat flour or coconut flour in the sponge cake instead of almond flour.

💡 Pro Tip: A mix of coconut cream and oat-based yogurt creates the best nut-free mascarpone alternative.

By following these expert tips, you’ll be able to create a vegan tiramisu that’s not just a substitute for the classic—but a show-stopping dessert in its own right! Whether you customize it to be gluten-free, nut-free, or extra chocolatey, this tiramisu is guaranteed to be creamy, indulgent, and absolutely delicious.

📌 Quick Recipe Summary: Vegan Tiramisu

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 4-6 hours (preferably overnight)
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

Vegan Mascarpone Cream:

1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 15-20 minutes)
½ cup full-fat coconut cream
2 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy)

Coffee Soak & Layers:

¾ cup strong espresso or brewed coffee
12-16 vegan ladyfingers or sponge cake slices

Final Touch:

Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
Vegan chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions:

Make the Vegan Mascarpone Cream – Blend soaked cashews, coconut cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and plant-based milk until smooth. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Prepare the Coffee Soak – Brew espresso, and let it cool.
Soak the Ladyfingers – Quickly dip each vegan ladyfinger or sponge cake strip into the coffee mixture.
Assemble the Tiramisu – Layer soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of a dish, spread half the mascarpone cream on top, then repeat with another layer.
Dust with Cocoa Powder – Sift unsweetened cocoa powder over the top for the classic tiramisu finish.
Chill & Serve – Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours (preferably overnight) before serving. Enjoy!