We’ve always been fans of the classic tiramisu, but our Chai Tiramisu Recipe takes it to new heights with a spicy Indian twist. Imagine layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers infused with aromatic chai spices like cardamom and cinnamon, creating a cozy fusion dessert that’s both familiar and exotic.
This easy update brings global flavors right into your kitchen, perfect for impressing guests or satisfying your sweet tooth. We’re excited to share how simple it is to blend cultures on a plate, making every bite an adventure.
Ingredients
For our Chai Tiramisu Recipe, we select high-quality ingredients that blend aromatic Indian spices with classic Italian elements for a flavorful fusion dessert. Below, we list them in the order we use them, including precise measurements and any necessary prep notes to ensure accuracy and ease.
Chai Soaking Liquid
- Strong brewed chai tea: 1 cup (240 ml), prepared by steeping 2 black tea bags with 1 teaspoon ground cardamom, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground ginger, and 2 cloves in boiling water for 5 minutes then cooled—use this first to infuse the ladyfingers.
- Espresso or strong coffee: ½ cup (120 ml), cooled—this combines with the chai for soaking to add depth.
Cream Mixture
- Mascarpone cheese: 8 ounces (225 grams), softened at room temperature for easy whipping into the mixture.
- Large eggs: 3, separated—yolks for creaming with sugar, whites for whipping to stiff peaks.
- Granulated sugar: ½ cup (100 grams), divided evenly between egg yolks and whites for balanced sweetness.
- Heavy whipping cream: 1 cup (240 ml), chilled—this gets whipped separately for a light, airy texture.
Assembly and Garnish
- Ladyfingers (Savoiardi biscuits): 200 grams, arranged in layers after soaking.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 2 tablespoons, for dusting the top layers to finish with a rich, visual contrast.
This selection ensures our Chai Tiramisu Recipe delivers bold, spiced flavors while remaining simple to prepare.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our flavorful Chai Tiramisu, let’s gather the essential equipment to ensure a smooth process. Building on our ingredient list, having the right tools will help us blend those aromatic spices and creamy elements effortlessly.
To make this recipe accessible and efficient, we recommend the following items. We’ve organized them into a simple list based on their use in the preparation and assembly stages:
- Mixing Bowls: Two medium-sized bowls for whisking eggs, sugar, and mascarpone to achieve that light, airy texture.
- Electric Mixer or Whisk: A hand-held or stand mixer for whipping cream and egg mixtures; opt for one with multiple speeds if available to prevent over-mixing.
- Saucepan: A small to medium saucepan for brewing and heating the chai tea and espresso mixture, ensuring the flavors infuse properly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of accurate cups and spoons to measure ingredients precisely, as exact proportions are key for the perfect balance in our Chai Tiramisu.
- Rectangular Baking Dish or Individual Glasses: An 8×8 inch dish for layering ladyfingers and cream, or 6-8 serving glasses for a more elegant, individual presentation.
- Fine-Mesh Sieve: For dusting cocoa powder evenly over the top layers, adding that signature finishing touch.
- Refrigerator: Space to chill the assembled dessert for at least 4 hours, allowing flavors to meld and set.
With these tools at hand, we’re set to move seamlessly into the preparation steps, transforming simple ingredients into an irresistible fusion dessert.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential equipment, let’s guide you through preparing our flavorful Chai Tiramisu step by step. We ensure each phase delivers the perfect fusion of spiced warmth and creamy indulgence.
Prepare the Chai Infusion
To create the aromatic base that infuses our tiramisu with exotic spices, start by brewing 2 cups of strong chai tea using 2 black tea bags and 2 cups of boiling water. Infuse the tea with 1 teaspoon ground cardamom, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger for 5 minutes to extract bold flavors. Next, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl and stir in 1/2 cup brewed espresso while it’s still warm. This spiced infusion will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma of cardamom and cinnamon, setting the stage for a dessert that tantalizes the senses.
Make the Mascarpone Mixture
Begin by separating 4 large eggs, placing the yolks in one mixing bowl and the whites in another. In the yolk bowl, whisk the yolks with 1/2 cup granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture turns pale yellow and creamy, about 3 minutes; this step creates a silky base that adds lightness to our tiramisu. In a separate bowl, beat 8 ounces mascarpone cheese until smooth, then gently fold it into the yolk mixture. In the egg white bowl, whip the whites to stiff peaks, and in another bowl, whip 1 cup heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped whites and cream into the mascarpone mixture, resulting in a luxuriously smooth and airy texture that promises a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.
Assemble the Tiramisu
Dip 24 ladyfingers one at a time into the prepared chai infusion for just 2-3 seconds to soak them without making them soggy, then arrange a single layer in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers, ensuring full coverage for balanced flavors. Add another layer of soaked ladyfingers on top, followed by the remaining mascarpone mixture. Dust the surface with 2 tablespoons cocoa powder using a fine-mesh sieve for a rich, chocolatey finish. This layering technique builds a harmonious contrast of spiced moisture and creamy richness, elevating our Chai Tiramisu to a showstopping dessert.
Chill the Dessert
Cover the assembled tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up. During this time, the spices from the chai will deepen, creating a dessert that delights with its cool, creamy consistency and layered taste profiles when served.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the beauties of our Chai Tiramisu is its flexibility for planning ahead, allowing the spices to infuse deeply and the layers to set perfectly. We recommend preparing this dessert in advance to enhance its creamy texture and bold flavors of cardamom and cinnamon.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To get the most out of the flavors in our Chai Tiramisu, follow these simple steps for making it ahead:
- Prepare the Base: Assemble the full dessert as outlined in the previous steps, including dipping the ladyfingers in the chai infusion and layering with the mascarpone mixture. This ensures the spices have time to meld.
- Chill Thoroughly: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Chilling allows the dessert to firm up, resulting in a cool, velvety bite that highlights the aromatic spices.
- Extend for Events: You can make it up to 2 days in advance. Simply keep it covered in the fridge, and the flavors will intensify, offering an even more adventurous fusion experience.
Storage Guidelines
- Refrigerate Promptly: After assembly and initial chilling, store the tiramisu in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. Use an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap to maintain its moisture and spiced aroma.
- Shelf Life Details: For quick reference, here’s a breakdown of storage durations in a markdown table:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 days | Ideal for preserving the creamy texture; flavors peak on day 2. |
| Freezer | Not recommended | Freezing can cause the mascarpone to separate, affecting the light and airy consistency. |
- Revival Tips: Before serving, let the tiramisu sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly, enhancing the sensual blend of coffee-soaked layers and spiced cream. Always use a clean utensil to avoid contamination.
Conclusion
We’ve thoroughly enjoyed sharing this Chai Tiramisu adventure with you. It’s a simple way to fuse bold spices with creamy indulgence creating unforgettable moments.
Let’s keep experimenting in the kitchen—your next creation could be the next big hit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chai Tiramisu?
Chai Tiramisu is a creative twist on the classic Italian dessert, blending aromatic Indian spices like cardamom and cinnamon with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone. This fusion creates a flavorful, exotic treat that’s perfect for entertaining or a special indulgence, combining familiar comfort with adventurous tastes in every bite.
What ingredients are needed for Chai Tiramisu?
The key ingredients include strong brewed chai tea, espresso, mascarpone cheese, eggs, sugar, heavy whipping cream, ladyfingers, and cocoa powder, along with spices like cardamom and cinnamon. Use precise measurements for the best results, focusing on high-quality items to enhance the bold, spiced flavors while keeping preparation simple.
What equipment is required to make Chai Tiramisu?
You’ll need mixing bowls, an electric mixer or whisk, a saucepan for brewing chai and espresso, measuring cups and spoons, a baking dish or glasses for assembly, and a fine-mesh sieve for dusting cocoa. These tools ensure smooth preparation and help achieve the dessert’s creamy texture with minimal effort.
How do I prepare Chai Tiramisu step by step?
Start by brewing chai with spices, then make a mascarpone mixture by whipping eggs, sugar, and cream for a light texture. Dip ladyfingers in the chai infusion, layer with the mascarpone, and dust with cocoa. Chill for at least 4 hours to let flavors meld, resulting in a cool, creamy dessert ready to serve.
Can I make Chai Tiramisu ahead of time?
Yes, Chai Tiramisu is ideal for advance preparation. Assemble it and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to enhance flavors and texture. You can make it up to 2 days ahead, allowing the spices to infuse fully for a more delicious result when you’re ready to enjoy.
How should I store Chai Tiramisu?
Store Chai Tiramisu in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container to maintain its creamy consistency. Avoid freezing, as it can affect the texture. For the best taste, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to bring out the bold spice flavors.