This Tiramisu Ice Cream is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, transforming its rich, coffee-soaked flavors into a creamy, frozen treat without the need for an ice cream machine.
What makes it particularly appealing is its effortless preparation—just whip, fold, and freeze—making it perfect for both weeknight indulgences and special occasions.
Despite its decadent taste, the recipe is lighter than traditional tiramisu, with the whipped cream providing satisfying texture and volume while sweetened condensed milk adds natural sweetness.
Nutritionally, it offers a modest boost of protein from the dairy, a small amount of good fats from the cream, and an energizing hit of caffeine from espresso.
The inclusion of crunchy ladyfinger cookies and chocolate pieces adds both fiber and textural contrast, making each bite satisfying without being overly heavy.
This recipe is ideal for home cooks seeking a quick, fuss-free dessert that feels luxurious yet approachable.
Its no-machine method ensures minimal cleanup and flexibility for meal prep or spontaneous dessert cravings.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Stand Mixer with Whisk Attachment
Essential for whipping the cream to stiff peaks quickly and evenly. Beyond this recipe, it’s perfect for batters, meringues, and doughs.
Mixing Bowls (Set of 3–4)
Durable bowls provide the right space to mix, fold, and combine ingredients efficiently. They’re versatile for prepping salads, batters, or marinades.
Measuring Cups & Spoons
Accurate measurement ensures perfect sweetness, creaminess, and coffee intensity. They’re indispensable for precise cooking and baking.
Small Bowl for Espresso
Perfect for dissolving instant coffee in water, ensuring even flavor distribution. Great for sauces, marinades, or pre-mixing small ingredients.
Freezer-Safe Container
Keeps the ice cream fresh while freezing and allows easy scooping. Multipurpose for storing leftovers, batch cooking, or meal prep
creamy Tiramisu Ice Cream
Equipment
- 1 Stand mixer with whisk attachment
- 3 Mixing Bowls
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- 1 Small Bowl
- 1 Freezer-Safe Container
Ingredients
- 14 oz 400 ml sweetened condensed milk, cold
- 2 cups 450 ml whipping cream, cold
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp warm water
- 1 tbsp instant espresso powder
- 1/2 cup 45 g ladyfinger cookies, crushed
- 1/4 cup 45 g chocolate, roughly chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Espresso Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the instant espresso powder with the warm water, stirring gently until fully dissolved and smooth, creating a rich, aromatic coffee base that will infuse the ice cream with authentic tiramisu flavor. Set this mixture aside to cool slightly while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
- Chill the Sweetened Condensed Milk: Place the sweetened condensed milk in the refrigerator to ensure it is cold before incorporating it into the whipped cream, which helps achieve a light, creamy texture for the ice cream without becoming too soft or runny.
- Whip the Heavy Cream: Using a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment or a hand mixer, beat the cold whipping cream on medium speed until stiff peaks form, making sure the cream holds shape firmly and develops a luscious, airy consistency that is essential for the ice cream base.
- Combine Condensed Milk and Vanilla: Reduce the mixer speed slightly and slowly pour the chilled sweetened condensed milk into the whipped cream, adding the vanilla extract at this stage for enhanced flavor. Continue to mix gently until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated without deflating the whipped cream.
- Incorporate the Espresso: Gradually add the prepared espresso mixture to the ice cream base while mixing on medium speed. Blend until the coffee flavor is evenly distributed and the base develops a uniform, pale coffee color, ensuring every scoop captures the classic tiramisu essence.
- Fold in Ladyfingers and Chocolate: Using a spatula, carefully fold in the crushed ladyfinger cookies and roughly chopped chocolate, combining them evenly without overmixing, so each bite has a balanced crunch and chocolate burst that complements the creamy base.
- Freeze Until Set: Transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover and freeze for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until firm enough to scoop, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly.
- Serve and Enjoy: When ready to enjoy, scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones, optionally garnish with extra chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder. Serve immediately for a creamy, coffee-infused dessert that captures the indulgence of traditional tiramisu in every bite.
Notes
- Use cold ingredients: Cold heavy cream and chilled sweetened condensed milk help achieve the perfect creamy texture.
- Folding technique matters: Gently fold in cookies and chocolate to preserve the airy texture of the ice cream.
- Espresso strength: Adjust the amount of instant espresso powder according to your preference for coffee intensity.
- Freezing time: Freeze at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for the best texture and flavor melding.
- Optional toppings: Sprinkle extra chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or a dusting of cinnamon before serving for added flair.
Chef’s Secrets For Creamy Texture
Achieving the perfect no-churn ice cream texture relies on both technique and ingredient temperature.
Always ensure your whipping cream is ice-cold; this allows it to whip into stiff peaks more quickly and hold the air necessary for a fluffy, creamy base.
Gently fold in the ladyfinger cookies and chocolate to avoid deflating the whipped cream while still distributing the mix-ins evenly.
Using a high-quality instant espresso powder ensures a bold coffee flavor without bitterness.
Lastly, patience during freezing is key: letting the ice cream firm up overnight results in a more scoopable, luxurious texture that mirrors traditional churned ice cream.
Serving Suggestions To Impress Guests
This tiramisu ice cream shines on its own or as part of a layered dessert.
Serve scoops in elegant glass bowls with a light dusting of cocoa powder or finely grated dark chocolate for visual appeal.
For a festive twist, pair it with fresh berries or a drizzle of coffee liqueur.
It also works wonderfully as a component in a dessert platter alongside biscotti or chocolate-covered nuts.
Its creamy, coffee-infused flavor pairs beautifully with espresso, cappuccino, or even a sparkling dessert wine, making it a versatile choice for entertaining.
Storage Tips For Long-Lasting Ice Cream
Store this ice cream in an airtight, freezer-safe container to prevent ice crystals from forming and maintain its smooth, creamy texture.
Place a layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing the lid for extra protection.
Keep the freezer at a consistent temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or below.
Leftover scoops can be returned to the container, but allow them to soften slightly at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving.
This ensures each portion retains its creamy consistency without being too hard to scoop.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered Clearly
1. Can I use flavored coffee instead?
Yes, you can experiment with vanilla, hazelnut, or mocha instant coffee for a twist, but stick to powdered forms to avoid adding excess liquid that could affect texture.
2. Is this recipe dairy-free or vegan-friendly?
Not in its original form. For a vegan version, substitute coconut cream for whipping cream and use a plant-based condensed milk alternative.
3. How long will it stay fresh?
Properly stored, this ice cream will maintain its quality for up to two weeks. Beyond that, it may develop ice crystals or lose creaminess.
4. Can I add alcohol for flavor?
Yes! A tablespoon of coffee liqueur or Marsala wine enhances the tiramisu flavor without affecting freezing consistency. Avoid adding too much liquid, as it can prevent proper freezing.
5. How do I make it extra creamy?
Whipping the cream to stiff peaks and carefully folding in ingredients without overmixing ensures a light, smooth, creamy texture reminiscent of traditional churned ice cream.
This recipe is inspired by biggerbolderbaking and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.
