Tiramisu is an Italian classic known for its layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone filling, and cocoa powder dusting. But what if you replaced the coffee with tea for a unique, aromatic variation? Infusing tiramisu with tea adds depth, subtle complexity, and a completely different flavor profile, making it an excellent alternative for those who prefer a caffeine-free or milder dessert.

By carefully selecting the proper tea, you can create floral, spiced, or earthy tiramisu variations that enhance the creamy layers without overpowering the delicate texture. Today, we’ll explore the best teas to use, how to infuse tiramisu with tea, and a step-by-step recipe for this luxurious dessert.

Tea brings a softer, more aromatic quality to tiramisu than espresso’s bold bitterness. Tea allows for endless creativity, whether you want a caffeine-free version or a more delicate flavor.

Benefits of Tea in Tiramisu

• Customizable Flavors – You can create different versions of tiramisu using various teas.
• Less Bitterness – Tea provides a smoother taste than strong espresso.
• Lighter and More Refreshing – Perfect for those who prefer a less intense dessert.
• Aromatic Complexity – Tea infusions add floral, spiced, or smoky undertones.

Best Teas for Tea-Infused Tiramisu

The tea you choose will define the flavor of your tiramisu. Here are the best options:

1. Earl Grey Tiramisu (Citrusy & Floral)

• Infused with bergamot orange, Earl Grey provides a light, citrusy aroma that pairs beautifully with mascarpone.
• Ideal for a sophisticated, fragrant tiramisu variation.

2. Chai Tiramisu (Warm & Spiced)

• Made with black tea and spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, chai brings a cozy, spiced depth to tiramisu.
• Perfect for an autumn or winter-inspired dessert.

3. Matcha Tiramisu (Earthy & Creamy)

• Matcha green tea adds vibrant green color and umami flavor to the mascarpone layers.
• It’s a modern take on tiramisu with a Japanese twist.

4. Jasmine Tea Tiramisu (Delicate & Floral)

• Fragrant and slightly sweet, jasmine tea gives tiramisu a light, floral note.
• It’s an excellent option for a refreshing, spring-inspired version.

5. Rooibos Tiramisu (Caffeine-Free & Nutty)

• Rooibos tea enhances the dessert’s creaminess and is naturally sweet and rich in caramel and vanilla notes.
• Best for a mild, caffeine-free tiramisu

Recipe

This recipe replaces espresso with strong brewed tea, keeping the classic mascarpone filling and cocoa topping intact.

Ingredients

For the Tea-Infused Ladyfingers:

• 1 ½ cups strong brewed tea (Earl Grey, Chai, Matcha, or your choice)
• 3 tbsp sugar (optional, to balance bitterness)
• 1 package ladyfingers (savoiardi biscuits)

For the Mascarpone Filling:

• 8 oz mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large egg yolks (or omit for egg-free version)

For Topping:

• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
• 1 tsp extra matcha powder or cinnamon (optional for extra flavor)

Directions:

Step 1: Brew the Tea

1. Brew 1 ½ cups of strong tea, using 3-4 tea bags or 2 tbsp loose-leaf tea.
2. Let it steep for 10 minutes to extract maximum flavor.
3. If desired, stir in sugar while the tea is hot, then let it cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Mascarpone Filling

1. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy. (If preferred, omit eggs.)
2. Whisk mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, and vanilla in a separate bowl until smooth and thick.
3. Gently fold the egg mixture into the mascarpone cream.

Step 3: Assemble the Tiramisu

1. Dip each ladyfinger into the cooled tea, ensuring it absorbs flavor without becoming too soggy.
2. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of a baking dish or serving glasses.
3. Spread half of the mascarpone filling over the ladyfingers.
4. Repeat the layering process with another layer of tea-soaked ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.

Step 4: Chill & Serve

1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best for full flavor development).
2. Before serving, dust with cocoa powder, matcha, or cinnamon.
3. Serve chilled, and enjoy the creamy, tea-infused layers.

Variations & Customizations

• For an Extra Tea Kick: Whisk 1 tsp matcha or chai spice into the mascarpone filling.
• For a Boozy Version: Add a splash of tea-infused liqueur (like chai liqueur or Earl Grey vodka).
• For a Vegan Option: Use coconut cream instead of mascarpone and plant-based ladyfingers.

Tea-infused tiramisu is a fresh, elegant take on the traditional Italian dessert. By swapping espresso for Earl Grey, chai, matcha, or jasmine tea, you can create a flavorful, aromatic, and unique variation suited to any occasion.

Whether you want a floral and delicate twist or a bold, spiced infusion, using tea in tiramisu is a simple yet sophisticated way to elevate this beloved dessert. Try experimenting with different teas and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and tea-infused goodness in every bite.