If you’re a fan of tiramisu and looking for a refreshing, fruity variation that still satisfies your love for creamy, coffee-soaked indulgence, this Mandarin and Chocolate Tiramisu is the dessert of your dreams. Combining the richness of mascarpone with the brightness of juicy mandarins, a hint of orange liqueur, bold espresso, and a dusting of cocoa and dark chocolate, this elegant dessert strikes the perfect balance between decadent and refreshing.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself to something special, this updated tiramisu is surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into this luxurious no-bake dessert recipe and discover how to make it your new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mandarin and Chocolate Tiramisu recipe is ideal for:

• Lovers of classic tiramisu looking for a vibrant new version
• Fans of fruity-chocolate combinations (think orange + dark chocolate heaven)
• Home bakers who appreciate a no-bake, make-ahead dessert
• Hosts planning a dinner party or festive gathering

With minimal ingredients, easy layering, and that signature creamy texture, this dessert is a brilliant marriage of Italian sophistication and citrusy flair. It’s not just a treat for the palate but also a showstopper for your dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything required to make this refreshing tiramisu:

• 500 g mascarpone cheese
• 4 eggs (separated)
• 100 g granulated sugar
• Biscuits à la cuillère (ladyfingers or savoiardi)
• 200 ml strong brewed coffee (cooled)
• 50 ml orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier – optional)
• 4–5 mandarins, peeled and segmented
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
• Dark chocolate, grated (for topping)
• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Before starting, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• 2 medium mixing bowls
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Fine mesh sieve (for dusting cocoa powder)
• Grater or zester (for the chocolate)
• A rectangular or square serving dish (8×8 inch works well)
• Whisk (if not using an electric mixer)
• Refrigerator space to chill the dessert

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Mascarpone Cream

• Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks.
• In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until pale, thick, and creamy.
• Add the mascarpone to the egg yolk mixture and beat until smooth and lump-free.
• In a separate clean bowl, whisk the egg whites to stiff peaks.
• Gently fold the egg whites into the mascarpone mixture using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the volume.

Pro Tip: Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature and your bowl is clean and dry to achieve perfect peaks.

2. Soak the Ladyfingers

• In a shallow dish, combine the cooled coffee with the orange liqueur (if using).
• Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture—no more than 1–2 seconds on each side.
• Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers on the bottom of your serving dish.

3. Layer the Tiramisu

• Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the soaked ladyfingers.
• Top with a layer of mandarin segments, arranged evenly.
• Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining mascarpone cream.
• Smooth the top and dust generously with cocoa powder.
• Decorate with extra mandarin segments, grated dark chocolate, and a few mint leaves.

4. Chill to Set

• Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for best results.

Shortcut Tip: If you’re short on time, chill the tiramisu in the freezer for 1 hour before moving it to the fridge for 1 more hour. This helps speed up the setting process slightly.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigeration: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Tiramisu can be frozen for up to 2 weeks. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare a day in advance and chill overnight for optimal flavor and texture.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

This recipe is flexible and open to creativity:

• No Alcohol Version: Simply skip the orange liqueur and replace with a splash of fresh mandarin juice.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ladyfingers or sponge biscuits.
• Chocolate Boost: Add a thin layer of melted chocolate between the cream layers or mix chocolate chips into the mascarpone mixture.
• Vegan Twist: Use vegan mascarpone, whipped aquafaba instead of egg whites, and plant-based ladyfingers.

Pairing Suggestions

Enhance your Mandarin and Chocolate Tiramisu experience with these perfect pairings:

• Drink Pairing: Serve with an espresso, Amaretto liqueur, or a sparkling citrus cocktail.
• Side Treats: Complement with dark chocolate bark or candied orange peels.
• Holiday Menu: This tiramisu makes a standout finale for Easter brunch, Christmas dinner, or New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use canned mandarins instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute with well-drained canned mandarins, but the flavor will be slightly sweeter and less vibrant than fresh segments.

Is it safe to eat raw eggs in tiramisu?

Traditionally, tiramisu includes raw eggs. Use pasteurized eggs if you’re concerned about food safety, especially when serving to children, pregnant individuals, or the elderly.

What’s the best way to grate chocolate for topping?

Use a microplane or fine grater to create light chocolate shavings. For thicker curls, scrape a bar of chocolate with a vegetable peeler.

Can I make individual portions instead of a large dish?

Absolutely! Layer the ingredients in dessert cups, glasses, or mini jars for a beautiful presentation and easy serving.

How can I make the dessert more stable?

For firmer cream, consider folding in whipped cream along with or in place of the egg whites for extra structure.

A Dessert Worth Sharing

This Mandarin and Chocolate Tiramisu is a delightful reinvention of the classic Italian treat. With layers of luscious mascarpone cream, citrusy brightness, coffee-kissed biscuits, and rich chocolate notes, it’s an irresistible balance of indulgent and refreshing.

It’s easy enough for a weeknight dessert and elegant enough for your next special celebration.

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Happy layering, and enjoy every spoonful!