Tiramisu Cake Topped with Zabaglione Cream is a recipe I wish I would have found years ago. I’ve seen countless recipes for Tiramisu, a very popular Italian dessert, and I’ve made quite a few recipe variations , but I’d never seen it made in a cake form. The idea was intriguing because it kept the delicious flavor of the original sweet but with common ingredients. This recipe has been updated from the original July 2015 version in order to provide a better experience for our readers. Last update May 2019.
Discovering a new form of Tiramisu
The minute I saw the recipe it peaked my interest. I knew that I had to make it! I’d never made a poke cake before and I loved the idea.
Then the perfect opportunity arose. . . our son’s and grandson’s birthday celebration was soon approaching. This dessert would be a complete switch from our favorite Italian Cream Cake.
For some time we’d been planning on a family fish fry, but as busy families go, work and sport schedules made it impossible. When two birthdays came up in the same week we thought it an ideal time to combine the two celebrations and enjoy a rollicking family feast.
Tiramisu Cake Recipe an Italian poke cake.
My Honey was going to fry some of the nice flounder and sea trout he’d caught while on Saint Simons Island. I was going to bring the desserts, Strawberry No Churn Ice Cream and Tiramisu Cake Topped With Zabaglione Cream.
I was also going to make Panzanella Salad and we were also going to bring the home-made bread — hoagie rolls and baguettes.
And I must say that the rest of the dishes the family provided for the birthday celebrations were spectacular — I’m hoping they’ll provide me with the recipes { I took photos} and I’ll be sure to give them credit.
The acorns certainly didn’t fall too far from our combined oak tree. 😃 [caption id="attachment_3079" align="aligncenter" width="550"]
Tiramisu cake is an easier version of the Italian classic.
The Day for the Tiramisu Cake arrives
The family get-together was going great. Lots of talking — lots of teasing — lots of food sampling — just a typical Italian family feast.
I was smiling from ear to ear looking in awe and pride at our children, their spouses, the three older grandsons and then cooing and gushing over the adorable one month old grandson– you moms and dads and nonnas and papas know what I’m talking about.
In the meantime I was doing quite a bit of talking — with hands– which is not unusual. All at once I heard a lot of yums and this is sooo good when I looked. . .
. . .Oh! My! Heavens! The Tiramisu topped with Zabaglione Cream was 3/4 gone!!
Another Tiramisu Cake in the plans
I had planned on taking a beautifully staged shot of a cut piece of cake on a plate. Unfortunately when our family gets together. . . talking . . .eating . . .having a great time, I’m not thinking of taking photos of food, eating yes, not photos.
So, the cake was cut and almost completely devoured before it came to my attention that I didn’t have any photos of the inside of the cake.
I grabbed the camera and the pan with the 3/4 eaten cake and went to stand near the kitchen window — natural light, you know. It was really a dreary day but that light was going to have to do.
I did get several photos but they certainly weren’t as gorgeous as the actual cake.
I do have a reprieve of sorts.
Our daughter, who always requests Italian Cream Cake for her birthday, loved this cake so much that she requested it for her birthday this year.
Once I make the Tiramisu Cake with Zabaglione Cream again I’ll make sure to cut it properly, put it on a nice plate and make sure that it has the proper stage for its beauty and deliciousness.
Then I will add the pictures to this post. [caption id="attachment_3370" align="aligncenter" width="650"]
Tiramisu Cake with a rich zabaglione topping.
Better late than never. This picture was taken when I made the cake for our daughter’s birthday. Simply delicious!
If you like Italian desserts you will love these recipes
Polenta Cake with Caramelized Pears
Cannoli Cake with Chocolate Strawberries
These desserts are heavenly!
Tutti a tavola è pronto!
Un caro saluto e alla prossima!
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There is nothing better than having a pretty serving baking pan like this to take to a gathering or potluck. After I made this cake I got a pretty serving pan so that I could really show off the beautiful cakes, desserts, and casseroles.
Tiramisu Cake Topped with Zabaglione Cream
This cake will soon become a family favorite. The cake keeps all of the flavor of the original Italian dessert but it’s much easier to make. be sure to save this recipe — you won’t regret it.
Tiramisu Cake Topped With Zabaglione Cream
Ingredients
White Cake
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter room temperature
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 4 egg whites room temperature ( save the yolks)
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/3 cup of buttermilk
Zabaglione Cream
- 8 oz. Mascarpone
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 egg yolks
- 3 Tablespoons Amaretto liqueur
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/3 cup cold espresso coffee for spraying on bare cake
- 2-3 tablespoons cocoa powder for dusting
- 1/3 cup crushed chocolate chips – optional
Instructions
Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350 F and grease and flour a 9×13 baking pan.
- In a bowl, beat butter for about one minute and then add sugar. Beat for another 1 -2 two minutes, until light.
- Add egg whites one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add vanilla and mix until combined.
- Sift flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt together.
- On the low speed of your electric mixer alternate adding the flour mixture and buttermilk starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread out evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the toothpick inserted in the center of the pan comes out clean.
- Cool completely before frosting.
Zabaglione Cream
- Place the egg yolks and sugar in the top of a double boiler or a large heat proof bowl over a saucepan that has an inch or two half of water, making a kind of double boiler.
- With a wire whisk or with the whisk attachment of a hand mixer beat the egg yolks with the sugar until they are completely combined and the mixture has a glossy appearance.
- Turn on the flame, moderately high until the water boils, then reduce the heat to a simmer and keep whisking. Make sure the bottom of the double boiler or bowl does NOT touch the water. As the water heats the egg mixture it will begin to thicken. As it thickens it will grow in volume. Keep whisking. This takes a little patience but it is well worth the effort. Your zabaglione will be done when it is thick, frothy and holds ribbons form as you whisk it. The temperature reaches 145 to 150 degrees F, on an instant-read thermometer.
- Take the zabaglione off the heat and continue to whisk. Add the Mascarpone to the whipped yolks and beat until combined. Add the Amaretto liqueur. Cover with plastic wrap and let cool completely.
- In a separate bowl, that has been chilled along with the beaters, whip the cream to stiff peaks taking care NOT to overbeat and make butter.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream into the zabaglione mixture and set aside.
- Put the espresso in a food safe spray bottle. Spray the white cake with the espresso making sure you don’t oversaturate. The 1/3 cup of espresso should be just right. If you don’t have a spray bottle you can do it by hand– be sure you don’t get too much in one spot.
- Spread the Zabaglione Cream evenly over the top of the espresso-sprayed cake.
- Dust the top with cocoa powder and garnish with crushed chocolate chips.
Notes
- Adapted from: http://willcookforsmiles.com/2013/10/tiramisu-poke-cake.html
Nutrition
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Heather says
You had me at espresso and Ameretto!! Love all the flavor combinations here and how easy this fancy, beautiful cake comes together. This is a show stopper for sure!!
Neha says
Sounds like a fun recipe to me! I love tiramisu and this one looks so creamy, fluffy and delicious. Want a fat slice like right now!
Jessica (Swanky Recipes) says
Tiramisu and my FAVORITE cake. It would be hard for anyone to ever change my mind. This time of year, I add fresh strawberries to the cake layers. I have never heard of zabaglione cream but now I know I must try it next time! This cake looks amazing and I can already taste it!
Kathleen says
Marisa, you had me at Zabaglione!! Combined with Tiramisu….died and gone to Italian food heaven! Thank you for sharing!
Marisa Franca says
My pleasure, Kathleen. Love the taste combination.
Amanda says
I adore tiramisu, but this is such a fun twist on a classic! This cake is delicious and such an impressive, crowd-pleasing dessert. Thanks for sharing!
ana @ muy delish says
I love recipes that you can bring to parties easily and are delicious at the same time! I have a few parties coming up and I’m totally going to make this. Delicious!
Saima says
Don’t worry, your pictures of the half eaten tiramisu cake still do full justice to it! The inside of the cake looks too delicious for words. I love the texture and the cream topping. Lovely recipe!
Kelly Anthony says
I’ve never heard of Zabaglione Cream! Is that like an authentic Italian frosting?! The ingredients make it look spectacular. YUM! Tiramisu is such a classic. I love your twist on it 🙂 Sounds easier for parties!
Julie says
What a fun idea, turning tiramisu into a cake! Tiramisu is one of my favorite desserts but I can’t always find the savoiardi — now you’ve solved the problem!
Carrie | Clean Eating Kitchen says
I love the flavors of tiramisu, so this cake sounds absolutely perfect to me! Great idea, bookmarking it to try soon!
Denise says
This looks delicious and surprisingly easy to make! I love tiramisu, this would be a hit here at home.
Liz says
Sounds delicious! My Italian mother will go crazy for this!
Jenni LeBaron says
This looks like all the best flavors of tiramisu without the fuss. I love the ample amount of zabaglione cream on top – that’s my favorite part! This would be perfect for a birthday cake!
Ciao Chow Linda says
Wow, if I’m going to switch from Italian rum cake, then your tiramisu cake would be it. I can see why you couldn’t get a photo until it was half gone. Hope you had a wonderful Mother’s Day
Jovina Coughlin says
Happy Mother’s Day, Marissa
Swathi says
I love tiramisu never thought we can make it as a sheet cake, great idea for the holidays and get together. I am going to give it try for sure.
Veena Azmanov says
I love all tiramisu anything and this sounds like the best. My kids are like me – all things creamy and delicious. I have to try this soon. Looks so good
Dan Zehr says
Oh, tiramisu is one of my favorite desserts. I would like to try a piece with a cup of coffee or tea. I’m sure your cake is delicious. Thanks.
Mahy Elamin says
My family loves tiramisu. And your variant seems to me to be perfect. Looks very nice and delicious. Beautiful color and nice presentation. Of course I want to try.
Michelle says
Gorgeous photos! It’s always great to find an update on a classic. I haven’t had tiramisu in forever and am now craving it
Noel Lizotte says
Such a simple approach to a classic flavor! I’m not surprised the first cake was nearly gone before you got a serving photo!
Kylee from Kylee Cooks says
I am a sucker for Tiramisu! Anytime I see it on a menu – I know I’m getting it. I haven’t tried making one myself (crazy, I know). Maybe I just will!!
Claudia Lamascolo says
I am pretty sure if I made this everyone would swoon over it. I love the cream and cake this idea is absolutely wonderful! you always come up with unique great ideas!
Tammy says
Tiramisu is one of my favorites and I love that you’ve made yours with zabaglione cream. It’s hard to find a truly homemade and authentic recipe for this beautiful dessert. I’m saving this for a later date and cannot wait to try it! ^_^
Marisa Franca says
Hello, Tammy! If you like tiramisu, you’ll love this cake.
Heather says
Gorgeous! I absolutely love tiramisu and that zabaglione cream sounds so amazing. This is the perfect cake to bring to every pot luch and barbecue this summer.
Marisa Franca says
Thank you, Heather! The cake is super popular with our family. I hope you try it out.
Padmajha Sureshbabu says
This is such an awesome dish especially we are taking it along for a party! It is sure a hit with everyone!!
Marisa Franca says
Thank you!! It’s always good to know others enjoy it as much as we do.
Veena Azmanov says
Marisa, I’m drooling. One of my absolute favorite desserts – Tiramisu or Creme brulee. If it’s on the menu then this is it. This sounds so absolutely delish.. I need to try this soon. Would be great to bring along to a BBQ too. Yum!
Marisa Franca says
Hi, Veena!! I know how you feel. They are traditional desserts that are always a favorite.
Lauren Vavala says
I’ve never seen tiramisu in cake for before – how perfect for a family gathering! I’m sure making it again to get more photos will definitely be worth it!
Marisa Franca says
Hi, Lauren! It really is easier to serve in cake form. We have a family gathering coming up and I think it’s time to make the cake again.
Gloria says
OMG Marisa….you make the BEST recipes. This is my kind of dessert. What a great BBQ party dish. If I lived close to you….I would be bringing wine every night and showing up at your door. I have to make this for a party this summer for sure.
Marisa Franca says
Hello, Gloria!! Thank you-you’ve got some fantastic recipes too. And you’re always welcome at our door, with or without wine. 😉
Adriana Lopez Martin says
Tiramisu is one of my favorite desserts and then in a form of a cake I am in I want a slice right now! Pure bliss and perfection. Perfect way to end a meal.
Marisa Franca says
Hi, Adriana! Yes, it is a great way to end a delicious meal. It’s not too heavy. Perfect!!
Marlynn Schotland says
Oh this brings me back! Tiramisu was one of the first “go to” desserts I would make for parties and it was always as a cake sliced into squares. Your recipe looks so yummy, it’s no wonder your family wanted to eat it all up. I do too! 🙂
Marisa Franca says
Thank you, Marlynn! I’m looking forward to making it again. I have to hurry and have the camera ready if I want to get a picture. 😉
Claudia Lamascolo says
one of our families favorite dessert I actually make often. Never thought about all in one pan. Looks much easier. Bet that topping is wonderful!
Marisa Franca says
Hi, Claudia! It is much easier — I’ve made several tiramisu versions and this one is so easy with lots of delicious taste.
Gloria says
Well isn’t this the perfect crowd pleasing dessert. I just made tiramisu for the first time during the last holiday season. I know my guests would have loved this version too. I have printed it….and will make it next time. You can never go wrong with the classics like this.
Marisa Franca says
Hi, Gloria! That recipe is super easy and so delicious — you don’t have to mess with ladyfingers.
Gloria says
Can you believe that I just made tiramisu for the first time last year??? I order it all the time when I go out to dinner. We were hosting a neighbourhood party…and I decided to make this for dessert. I wish I had your recipe….it would have been great. Guess I will be using this for the next party!!
Tina Lindquist says
What a great take on a classic. I have made tiramisu once, under the very supervised eye of an Italian matriarch that didn’t speak English. I lOVED that experience. The cake version looks so very interesting, I need to try this, it really looks amazing!
Marisa Franca says
Ciao, Tina!! It tastes fantastic and so much easier to put together.xoxo
Jenni says
This looks so tasty. I love the cream top instead of a traditional frosting!
Marisa Franca says
Hi, Jenni! The topping isn’t as sweet as a typical frosting. Really compliments the tiramisu.
Debs says
Marisa, this sounds amazing! And I love hearing about your family. They all sound so lovely!
Sharon says
I love how you took tiramisu to a whole new level with this beautiful cake. I especially love the cream topping.
Marisa Franca says
Thank you, Sharon! I really think the family enjoyed the cake recipe. *psst* Don’t tell my Italian relatives. 😉
Tamara Andersen says
Your family story brought a smile! We have 4 grown sons and 2 grandsons (1 and 3). All 4 of our sons are amazing in the kitchen, 2 work in the culinary field professionally. All of our family celebrations are centered around food and fun at the table!
So, your Tiramisu Cake looks and sounds fabulous, and I would happily eat a slice or 3! That photo is gorgeous BTW!
Marisa Franca says
Thank you, Tamara! Aren’t you glad the males are taking interest in the culinary area? Hubby is right in the kitchen with me — always. Of course he is retired and I had to learn to share MY kitchen. ☺️
Christine says
My husband loves Tiramisu! This would be so perfect for his birthday next week. Yum!
Marisa Franca says
Hi, Christine!! This is a wonderful recipe. I hope you try it.
Analida @ ethnicspoon.com says
That cream sounds absolutely amazing! I need to try this cake for our next party! Thanks for sharing!
Marisa Franca says
Hello, Analida! The cream is wonderful on the cake. I’m looking forward to making it again.
Anne Murphy says
That sounds perfect for a group! And I can certainly see why you’d have trouble holding them off for pretty pictures… I have family who always get tiramisu at Italian restaurants – I’ll have to look at this for the next big get together!
Marisa Franca says
Hi, Anne! I’m going to make the cake again and lock it in a room until I can get the photos!! Have a great weekend.
Elaine @ Dishes Delish says
I love the taste of tiramisu! I love that you made a cake and topped it with cream! It looks so good that I’m going to have to make one for this weekend’s game day party. My family goes ga-ga over tiramisu too and I can’t wait to see their faces when I serve your delicious cake!
Marisa Franca says
Hello, Elaine! You’ll have to make this for your family. It is much easier than the typical tiramisu. xoxo
Patti @Patty Cake's Pantry says
My daughter loves tiramisu, but the traditional recipe is sooo labor intensive what with arranging all of those lady fingers. I love this recipe for it’s simplicity as well as for it’s full tiramisu flavor.
Marisa Franca says
Hi, Patti! The simplicity is what drew me to it — and after I tasted it –WOW!! Have a wonderful week.
Rachel says
This recipe looks and sounds REALLY good! I love tiramisu, but the work involved has kept me from making it, but this recipe, this one I can do!
Marisa Franca says
Hello, Rachel! If you want the taste of tiramisu but don’t want the labor? This recipe is for you!!
Ashley @ Big Flavors from a Tiny Kitchen says
What a fun take on a classic Italian dessert! I’ve never had it in cake form, but it looks phenomenal! It’s the perfect thing for big parties when you want to feed a crowd.
Marisa Franca says
Exactly, Ashley! Nice neat squares can go far when it’s in an oblong pan. xoxo
Denise Wright says
What a great idea! I have had tiramisu a million times but never had made it myself. This may have to be my first. Looks delicious!
Marisa Franca says
Hi, Denise!! If you like tirmisu, you’ll love it in this cake form. 🤗
Priya Srinivasan says
Wow that sounds like a delicious feast!!! tiramisu cake looks lovely and clicks are pretty!
It always happens with me too, i make so many dishes for get togethers and always think of clicking it on the table, but alas with all that chit-chatting, i forget and end up with empty plates!!! 🙂 But the fun is what always matters, for we can make the dish again!!! 🙂
Marisa Franca says
You’re right Priya! One year we were doing a rib roast and all I had to take a photo of was bones. I guess the bones said it all. 🤣
Molly Kumar says
You had me at Tiramisu and I’m literally drooling reading the ingredients 😉 The cake sounds incredibly soft, delicious and no wonder you daughter requested it for her birthday. It just looks so flavorful, creamy and Tiramisu being our absolute favorite, this might get made real soon.
Marisa Franca says
Hi, Molly! It is so good and that dessert was gone in a nanosecond! 😋
Adriana Lopez Martn says
Tiramisu is one of my most favorite desserts. I wish I can taste yoru recipe so I will have t make it. This is such a classic and perfect for a party.
Marisa Franca says
Hi, Adriana! You’ll love the easy tiramisu recipe. It’s easy to assemble and tastes soooo good! Have a great day.
Noel Lizotte says
That sounds like one of our family gatherings!! I either have to make a special “for pictures” recipe or just go with the pre cut photos and never mind what the inside or single serving looks like! LOL
Love tiramisu!
Marisa Franca says
Hi, Noel. I’m glad you understand. I’ve missed out on some terrific shots of recipes for that very reason — it’s gone by the time I get the camera. You can’t very well cook, serve, and wear a camera around your neck. 😂 Hey, here’s a thought, what about a body cam?
Camilla Hawkins says
Oh wow, this cake is just heavenly, I love Amaretto so a definite winner for me:-)
Marisa Franca says
Hi, Camilla! You’ll have to make it — so easy and good!!
Veena Azmanov says
Oh I love Tiramisu. I made some last week with the finger cookies. Had not time to make a cake. Next time I’m making your white cake. Sounds so delicious.
Marisa Franca says
Hi, Veena! It sure is easier than finger cookies – you make such great pastries you could use any light cake.Have a great day!
Karen says
Sounds like a wonderful family gathering, and your photos all are beautiful, even if you aren’t totally happy with them. =)
Marisa Franca says
Thank you, Karen. I think we’re our own worst critics but when our family is together I’m so thrilled I don’t always remember to take food photos. 😟
Catherine says
Oh, this looks wonderful!! Perfect for family gatherings…so nice to have the whole family cook and get together. I love tiramisu and yours sounds like absolute heaven. Wishing I had a slice right now!
Marisa Franca says
Hi, Catherine! We are all avid cooks — and of course, we also love to eat. That makes a great combination, don’t you think?
Stephanie says
I can totally see why you missed your chance for a photo. This cake wouldn’t last 10 minutes around here!
Marisa Franca says
Hello, Stephanie! Most of the time I have to hurry and take the shot or miss it entirely. I really can’t complain because I love feeding my family.
Renz says
I can see why you wouldn’t have any cake to properly stage. This looks like it was amazing!!! Zabaglione cream is new to me too. Interesting
Marisa Franca says
Hello, Renz! Thank you! The cream is very good on top — not too sweet, just right.
PAM says
I love anything tiramisu, it’s always my favorite dessert to find on a menu. This cake sounds absolutely delicious.
Marisa Franca says
Hi, Pam! The recipe is super easy. You’ll have to make your own tiramisu. I’m warning you though, it’s hard not going back for another slice.
Daniela Anderson says
I can’t think of a more indulgent dessert than Tiramisu. While there might be lots of versions out there, yours sound like the real deal. I love a nice slice straight out of the fridge, such a treat in summer time.
Marisa Franca says
It’s really good, Daniela! This version is so easy and not as labor intensive but the taste is still there. YUM!
Hanady | Recipe Nomad says
You’re making me drool! I love Tiramisu especially on a hot summer day! I can’t wait for you to share the Panzanella recipe! I had it at a restaurant once and loved it!
Marisa Franca says
Hello, Hanady! Panzanella salad is right here: https://allourway.com/panzanella-italian-bread-salad/ It’s one of our favorite salads.
Muna Kenny says
I love Tiramisu, and your cake version looks divine. Thanks for sharing the recipe 🙂
Marisa Franca says
Thank you Muna! We’ve had Tiramisu many times and different recipes. This is really easy to make and it is delicious.
Janel from NellieBellie says
Whatever that cream is… I want some! Tiramisu is one of my fave desserts ever in the history of ever!
Marisa Franca says
I’m making another one this week — my daughter’s birthday. And since you’re coffee lovers, I’m also making espresso ice cream with mocha liqueur to go along with it.
Ciao Chow Linda says
I know what you’re talking about when you say you were too busy eating that delicious cake to think about taking pictures. I have to hold people back for a bit and it can get tedious for people to wait. I can see why they wanted to dive into this beauty.
Simply Suzannes at Home says
Hi Marisa!
You’ve posted so many amazing recipes in the last week!
I was sick with the flu last week, so I wasn’t on the computer much – and didn’t even get to make your No-Churn Ice Cream!
I feel much better this week . . . and look forward to getting back to baking, cooking, and blogging again :0)
My oldest son’s favorite dessert is Tiramisu! I make him one version – or another – of it for his birthday every year.
Your recipe topped with zabaglione cream sounds divine! I love your photos of it . . . and look forward to seeing your “properly staged photos ” :0) You’re too funny! It looks delicious!
I can only imagine how much fun your family gatherings must be . . . delicious food! . . . fun people . . . sounds like a great time!
Thanks for sharing!
Suzanne
Marisa Franca says
Our family is pretty loud. It’s like everyone has to hurry up and say it before they forget. And we do like to sample new food! Everyone loves to cook so the subject matter always returns to food 🙂
Jovina Coughlin says
What a feast! Such good food for everyone. Your tiramisu cake is a new one for me, especially with the topping. Definitely a treat for a special occasion.
I make a tiramisu cheesecake that everyone loves. Now I have your creation to add to my list of desserts to make.
Marisa Franca says
Your cheesecake sounds yummy! I hope you’ll share it 🙂