Overview
This Low-Carb Easy Tiramisu captures all the indulgent flavors of the classic Italian dessert while keeping sugar and carbs to a minimum. Creamy mascarpone filling is layered with coffee-soaked almond or coconut flour “ladyfingers” and finished with a dusting of cocoa powder. It’s rich, satisfying, and can be made ahead for gatherings or a special treat without derailing your low-carb lifestyle.
Ingredients
For the “Ladyfingers”
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 1/3 cup low-carb sweetener (erythritol, monk fruit, or preferred)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Mascarpone Filling
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered low-carb sweetener (or granulated, finely powdered)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Coffee Soak
- 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened coffee liqueur or rum (optional)
- 1 teaspoon low-carb sweetener, optional
For Topping
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Optional: shaved dark chocolate (85% cacao or higher)
Step 1: Prepare the “Ladyfingers”
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, combine almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with half of the sweetener and vanilla extract until pale and slightly thickened.
In another bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form, then gradually add the remaining sweetener and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the egg yolk mixture into the dry ingredients, then carefully fold in the egg whites in batches, keeping as much air as possible to maintain a light texture.
Transfer the batter into a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with a corner cut off. Pipe finger-shaped strips onto the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until lightly golden and set. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sweetener and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone until fully combined and fluffy. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Coffee Soak
In a small bowl, combine brewed coffee with optional coffee liqueur and sweetener. Adjust sweetness to taste.
Allow the coffee mixture to cool to room temperature.
Step 4: Assemble the Tiramisu
Lightly dip each “ladyfinger” into the coffee mixture. Do not soak too long; just a quick dip to absorb flavor without becoming soggy.
Arrange a layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a 8×8-inch dish (or similar size).
Spread half of the mascarpone filling evenly over the layer of ladyfingers.
Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, then top with the remaining mascarpone filling.
Smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
Just before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. Optional: sprinkle with shaved dark chocolate for extra texture and flavor.
