Irresistible Baileys Tiramisu for Cozy Winter Evenings

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

The moment those chilly winter evenings creep in, I find myself longing for something indulgent and warming. That s when I discovered this delightful Baileys tiramisu recipe a dessert that wraps you in the cozy embrace of rich flavors and velvety textures. With layers of freshly brewed coffee-soaked sponge fingers, smooth mascarpone, and the sweetness of Baileys Irish Cream, each bite is a celebration of comfort and joy.

While entertaining friends or treating myself after a long day, this tiramisu never fails to impress. It s a stunning centerpiece for gatherings, but what truly makes it special is the balance between the bold coffee and the creamy, luscious filling. Despite its elegant presentation, this dessert is surprisingly simple to whip up, making it the perfect solution for anyone looking to elevate their home cooking. So grab your favorite mug, brew a fresh pot of coffee, and let s create something truly memorable!

Why will you love this Baileys tiramisu?

Indulgent Flavor: Each spoonful brings together coffee, cream, and Baileys for an unforgettable taste experience.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few ingredients, you ll impress without the stress.
Perfect for Gatherings: This stunning dessert turns any occasion into a celebration, delighting friends and family alike.
Versatile Options: Feel free to tailor the flavors with different liqueurs or add-ins for your own spin.
Fabulous Make-Ahead: Prepare a day in advance, allowing flavors to deepen for maximum enjoyment.
Cozy Winter Treat: There s nothing like a comforting dessert to warm you up during chilly nights!

Baileys Tiramisu Ingredients

For the Coffee Mixture

• Strong Black Coffee Adds depth and richness; use freshly brewed for the best flavor.
• Amaretto Enhances sweetness and brings out almond flavor; substitute with any sweet liqueur or omit for a non-alcoholic version.

For the Cream Mixture

• Double Cream Provides a luscious, creamy structure to the dessert; heavy cream can be used as an alternative.
• Mascarpone Essential for the creamy texture of tiramisu; cream cheese can be a substitute, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
• Golden Caster Sugar Sweetens the cream mixture; regular granulated sugar can be used, but caster sugar dissolves more easily.
• Baileys Irish Cream Infuses the dessert with rich, chocolatey flavor; omit for a non-alcoholic version.
• Vanilla Extract Adds warmth and depth to the cream.

For the Assembly

• Sponge Fingers (Ladyfingers) Create the structure of the dessert; homemade or store-bought will work, but ensure they are fresh.
• Cocoa Powder For dusting before serving, adding a chocolatey finish.

How to Make Baileys Tiramisu

1. Mix the Coffee: In a shallow bowl, combine the freshly brewed strong black coffee and amaretto. Set aside to cool slightly so it is ready for soaking the sponge fingers.
2. Whip the Cream: In a separate large bowl, whip together the double cream, mascarpone, golden caster sugar, Baileys Irish Cream, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This should take about 2-4 minutes with an electric mixer.
3. Soak the Sponge Fingers: Quickly dip half of the sponge fingers into the coffee mixture. Make sure they are soaked but not falling apart. Layer them in a single row at the bottom of a 20cm serving dish.
4. Layer the Cream: Pipe half of the whipped cream mixture over the layer of sponge fingers. Use a piping bag for a smooth, even distribution.
5. Repeat Layering: Dip the remaining sponge fingers into the coffee mixture and place them on top of the cream. Then, pipe the remaining cream over this layer, smoothing it into an even finish.
6. Chill the Dessert: Cover and chill the assembled tiramisu in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, though overnight is preferable for the best flavor development.
7. Dust with Cocoa: Just before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder for a beautiful and delicious finishing touch.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for an extra touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Baileys Tiramisu

• Fridge: Store your Baileys tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping it fresh.
• Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the tiramisu for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen tiramisu overnight in the refrigerator. Avoid thawing at room temperature to maintain its texture.
• Reheating: This dessert is best served cold; do not reheat. Simply remove from the refrigerator to let it come to a slightly cooler, more enjoyable temperature before serving.

Expert Tips for Baileys Tiramisu

• Soak Smartly: Dip the sponge fingers quickly into the coffee mixture; if they soak too long, they ll disintegrate.
• Chill Time: Allow ample chilling time for the layers to set; overnight is ideal for the best flavor and texture.
• Layer It Up: Ensure your cream mixture is whipped to soft peaks for a fluffy, indulgent Baileys tiramisu.
• Presentation Matters: Dust cocoa powder right before serving for that perfect finishing touch and avoid moisture absorption.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap out Baileys with other liqueurs to create a unique twist on your tiramisu!

What to Serve with Baileys Tiramisu?

Indulging in a slice of Baileys tiramisu is a heavenly experience, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert adventure even further.

• Espresso: A strong shot complements the coffee flavors in the tiramisu, creating a delightful balance of sweetness and richness.
• Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream enhances the creamy texture, adding a lovely touch of freshness.
• Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle on top for an added aesthetic and textural contrast; the chocolate enhances the dessert s luxurious feel.
• Biscotti: Crunchy almond or chocolate biscotti dipped in coffee creates a wonderful crunchy texture, perfect for that evening indulgence.
• Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a vibrant pop of color and a zesty tang that beautifully cuts through the sweetness.
• Hazelnut Liqueur: Pouring this alongside or drizzling over the tiramisu enhances the nutty flavors and creates an aromatic experience.
• Café au Lait: This creamy coffee perfect with dessert blends well with the rich flavors of the tiramisu, making it an ideal pair.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream offers a cold contrast to the creamy layers of tiramisu, enhancing the overall dessert experience.

These pairings not only complement your dessert but also create a delightful spread that friends and family will adore!

Make Ahead Options

These Baileys tiramisu are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy days! You can assemble the entire dessert up to 24 hours in advance just remember to chill it in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld beautifully. For the best results, make sure to cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap to prevent any drying or absorption of refrigerator odors. When you re ready to serve, simply dust the top with cocoa powder for that perfect finishing touch. Not only does prepping ahead make your life easier, but it also allows the tiramisu to develop a richer flavor, making it just as delicious as fresh!

Baileys Tiramisu Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this delectable dessert your own with these delightful twists!

• Coffee Liqueur Swap: Replace Baileys with Kahlua for a different coffee flavor that s equally indulgent.
• Nutty Flavor Boost: Use hazelnut liqueur instead of Baileys to enhance the nuttiness and sweetness in every bite.
• Creamy Alternative: Opt for a lighter mascarpone by using Greek yogurt for a tangy and creamy twist without sacrificing texture.
• Choco-Delight: Layer in grated dark chocolate or chocolate chips between the layers for an unexpected crunch and richness.
• Festive Flair: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cream for a refreshing holiday spin, perfect for winter gatherings!
• Spice It Up: Incorporate a sprinkle of cinnamon in the cream mixture to add warmth and a touch of spice so cozy!
• Fruit Infusion: Fold in crushed raspberries or strawberries into the cream for a hint of fruity freshness in every mouthful.
• Vegan Twist: Replace dairy ingredients with coconut cream, dairy-free liqueur, and chia seeds for a vegan-friendly version that s just as scrumptious.

Baileys Tiramisu Recipe FAQs

What type of coffee should I use for Baileys tiramisu?
Absolutely! Freshly brewed strong black coffee is the star of this dessert. It adds depth and richness. For an optimal flavor, avoid instant coffee and opt for a quality brew that you love.

How long can I store Baileys tiramisu in the fridge?
You can store your Baileys tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors get even better as they meld together, making it a fantastic make-ahead option.

Can I freeze Baileys tiramisu?
Yes! To freeze your Baileys tiramisu, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. Avoid thawing at room temperature as this can affect the texture.

What if my sponge fingers disintegrate while soaking?
Very understandable! The key is to dip them quickly into the coffee mixture just a second or two is enough to soak without falling apart. If they do disintegrate, try adjusting your soaking time or using a firmer brand of sponge fingers next time.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dairy allergies?
Not as it currently stands. However, you could make some substitutions. For a dairy-free version, you can use coconut cream in place of double cream and opt for a non-dairy alternative to mascarpone. Just be aware that this will change the overall flavor and texture slightly.

Can I use other liqueurs instead of Baileys?
Absolutely! If you re looking to mix things up, try using different flavored coffee liqueurs like Kahlua, or even a nut-flavored liqueur for a unique twist. Just remember to adjust the sweetness level to your taste, as different liqueurs vary in sweetness.