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Eggnog Tiramisu

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Eggnog Tiramisu takes everything you love about classic tiramisu and gives it a cozy holiday twist. Imagine layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, rich eggnog mascarpone cream, and a generous snowfall of cocoa and nutmeg all chilling together in one pan. Every bite tastes like Christmas in dessert form.

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This no-bake dessert is ideal when you want something impressive that doesn’t keep you stuck in the kitchen. You can make it a day or two in advance, let the fridge do the work, then bring it out to wow everyone at your next holiday party, Christmas dinner, or New Year’s gathering.


Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Tiramisu

If you’re an eggnog fan, this tiramisu is going to be your new December tradition. It has that familiar custardy flavor, a whisper of warm spice, and just enough coffee and cocoa to keep it from being too sweet.

You’ll love this Eggnog Tiramisu because:

  • It’s no-bake and make-ahead. Assemble it in about 30 minutes, then let it chill while you focus on everything else.
  • The texture is ultra-creamy. Whipped cream and mascarpone make the filling light yet rich.
  • It feels festive without being fussy. The eggnog and nutmeg give instant holiday vibes with minimal effort.
  • It’s easy to scale. Double the recipe for a crowd or make half in a smaller dish.

What Makes Eggnog Tiramisu Different From Classic Tiramisu?

Traditional tiramisu uses a custard made with egg yolks, sugar, and sometimes a splash of Marsala wine, folded into whipped mascarpone and cream. For Eggnog Tiramisu, we swap the wine for creamy eggnog and add a touch of nutmeg and vanilla. The result is a filling that tastes like the love child of tiramisu and a holiday eggnog latte.

You still get layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, cocoa on top, and that cloud-like mascarpone cream—but with extra richness and a cozy, spiced aroma. It’s familiar enough for tiramisu purists, but special enough to feel like a once-a-year treat.


Ingredients for Eggnog Tiramisu

Before you start layering, take a moment to gather your ingredients and let the mascarpone soften. Having everything at the ready makes assembling this dessert smooth and stress-free.

  • Egg yolks – Create a silky custard base that gives the filling its classic tiramisu richness.
  • Granulated sugar – Sweetens the custard and helps the yolks whip up pale and thick.
  • Eggnog – The star of the show; it replaces the traditional wine and infuses the cream with warm holiday flavor.
  • Mascarpone cheese – Adds tangy, luxurious creaminess and helps the filling set nicely.
  • Heavy whipping cream – Whipped to soft peaks for a light, cloud-like texture in the filling.
  • Vanilla extract – Rounds out the eggnog flavor and adds cozy bakery-style aroma.
  • Ground nutmeg – Reinforces the eggnog vibes and adds warmth; you can also add a pinch of cinnamon if you like.
  • Strong brewed coffee or espresso – Soaks into the ladyfingers and balances the sweetness with gentle bitterness.
  • Dark rum or brandy (optional) – Adds a grown-up depth that pairs beautifully with eggnog and coffee.
  • Ladyfingers (savoiardi) – The classic tiramisu sponge, ready to drink up the coffee mixture and become tender.
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder – Dusts the top for that signature tiramisu look and a hint of chocolate.
  • Pinch of salt – Just enough to sharpen the flavors and keep the dessert from tasting flat.

How To Make the Eggnog Tiramisu

This Eggnog Tiramisu comes together in simple steps: make the eggnog custard, whip the cream and mascarpone, soak the ladyfingers, then layer and chill. Give yourself enough time for chilling so the layers can set and the flavors can meld.

Step 1 – Prepare the eggnog custard base
In a heatproof bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until thick, pale, and slightly increased in volume. Set the bowl over a saucepan of gently simmering water (double-boiler style), making sure the bottom doesn’t touch the water. Whisk constantly for 5–7 minutes, until the mixture is warm, slightly thickened, and the sugar is dissolved. Whisk in the eggnog and a pinch of salt, then continue to cook for another 2–3 minutes, just until lightly thickened. Remove from the heat and let the custard cool to room temperature.

Step 2 – Whip the mascarpone cream
In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone briefly until smooth and creamy. In another chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg until soft peaks form. Gently fold the cooled eggnog custard into the mascarpone, then fold in the whipped cream in two or three additions, keeping as much air in the mixture as possible. You should have a thick, billowy eggnog mascarpone cream.

Step 3 – Mix the coffee soaking liquid
In a shallow dish, combine the cooled brewed coffee or espresso with the dark rum or brandy, if using. Taste and adjust—add a splash more eggnog if you want a softer coffee flavor, or an extra pinch of nutmeg for more spice.

Step 4 – Dip and layer the ladyfingers
Working one at a time, quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for 1–2 seconds per side. They should be moist but not falling apart. Arrange a snug layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of an 8×8-inch (or similar) dish.

Spread half of the eggnog mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers, smoothing the top with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.

Step 5 – Repeat the layers
Dip and arrange a second layer of ladyfingers over the cream, then top with the remaining eggnog mascarpone mixture. Smooth the surface so it’s as even as possible—this will make the cocoa dusting look extra pretty later.

Step 6 – Chill for the best texture
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can. Chilling allows the ladyfingers to soften fully and the custard to set into a sliceable, creamy dessert.

Step 7 – Dust and serve
Right before serving, generously dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder and a light sprinkle of nutmeg. Slice into squares and serve cold.


How to Serve and Store Eggnog Tiramisu

Eggnog Tiramisu is at its best well-chilled, with a fresh dusting of cocoa on top. Use a sharp knife to cut neat squares, wiping the blade between slices. This recipe comfortably serves about 8 generous portions or up to 10 smaller slices, depending on how big you cut them.

To store, cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, and the texture gets even creamier. If you’d like to make it farther in advance, you can assemble the tiramisu, wrap it well, and freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving and dust with fresh cocoa.


What to Serve With Eggnog Tiramisu?

Eggnog Tiramisu is rich and flavorful on its own, but pairing it with something complementary can turn dessert into a full-on experience. Here are a few ideas to round out your holiday table.

Spiced Coffee or Latte

Serve slices with hot espresso, a cinnamon latte, or a simple brewed coffee topped with frothed milk and nutmeg. The warmth of the drink contrasts beautifully with the cold, creamy tiramisu.

Sparkling Wine or Prosecco

A glass of something bubbly cuts through the richness and makes dessert feel extra celebratory. Choose a not-too-sweet Prosecco or sparkling wine so it doesn’t compete with the dessert’s sweetness.

Fresh Berries or Citrus Segments

Offer a small bowl of fresh raspberries, pomegranate arils, or orange segments on the side. Their acidity brightens each bite and adds a pop of color to the plate.

Savory Holiday Bites

If you’re serving Eggnog Tiramisu at a party, balance the sweetness with a few savory appetizers—think cheese boards, crispy crostini, or warm, herby snacks. The contrast keeps guests going back for “just one more” bite.


Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about making this Eggnog Tiramisu your own? These tips should help you customize it for your holiday table.

Can I make Eggnog Tiramisu without alcohol?

Absolutely. Simply leave out the rum or brandy and replace it with an equal amount of cooled coffee or extra eggnog. You’ll still get plenty of flavor from the espresso, cocoa, and nutmeg, but the dessert will be completely family-friendly.

How far in advance can I make Eggnog Tiramisu?

Tiramisu is one of those desserts that actually improves as it rests. You can assemble this Eggnog Tiramisu up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated until serving. If you need to work even farther ahead, you can freeze the assembled (but undusted) tiramisu for up to a month, then thaw it overnight in the fridge and finish with cocoa before serving.

What if I can’t find mascarpone cheese?

Mascarpone is traditional and gives the smoothest, most luxurious texture, but you can make a close substitute by blending softened cream cheese with a splash of heavy cream until silky. The flavor will be slightly tangier, but still delicious. If you enjoy creamy, no-bake desserts like this, you might also love my no bake mini cheesecakes for another easy, make-ahead option.

Can I make individual Eggnog Tiramisu cups?

Yes, and they’re perfect for parties. Instead of assembling in one large dish, layer the coffee-dipped ladyfingers (or broken pieces) and eggnog cream in small glasses, jars, or ramekins. Chill as usual, then dust with cocoa before serving. For another fun single-serve idea, check out my tiramisu cups which are built specifically for individual portions.

What other no-bake holiday desserts go well with Eggnog Tiramisu?

If you’re building a dessert table, pair this tiramisu with something fruity and light so there’s variety. A creamy panna cotta is a great contrast in texture and flavor—try my 30-minute no-bake dessert panna cotta with mixed berry compote for an easy, elegant companion.


Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this Eggnog Tiramisu to your Pinterest holiday dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add the liqueur or leave it out? Did you make it in a big pan or as individual cups?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter and host holiday gatherings with less stress.


Conclusion

Eggnog Tiramisu is everything you want in a festive dessert: make-ahead, no-bake, ultra-creamy, and full of cozy holiday flavor. With simple ingredients and a little chill time, you get a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery.

Whether you serve it after Christmas dinner, bring it to a holiday party, or sneak a slice with your morning coffee, this dessert is sure to become a seasonal favorite. For even more festive dessert ideas, follow along on Pinterest at Meals We Share.


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Eggnog Tiramisu


  • Author: Sally Roberts
  • Total Time: 275
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

Eggnog Tiramisu is a rich, no-bake holiday dessert that layers espresso-soaked ladyfingers with fluffy eggnog mascarpone cream for a cozy twist on the classic Italian favorite. It’s an easy recipe that works as an indulgent quick breakfast with coffee, a show-stopping finale to an easy dinner, and a festive addition to your list of breakfast ideas, dinner ideas, healthy snack ideas, and holiday food ideas.


Ingredients

4 large egg yolks

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup eggnog

8 ounces mascarpone cheese softened

1 cup heavy whipping cream cold

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg plus more for serving

1 1/2 cups strong brewed coffee cooled

1/4 cup dark rum or brandy optional

24 to 30 ladyfingers

2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting


Instructions

1. Brew the coffee or espresso, let it cool completely, and set it aside in a shallow dish for dipping the ladyfingers.

2. In a heatproof bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until thick and pale, then set the bowl over a pot of gently simmering water and cook, whisking constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture slightly thickens.

3. Whisk in the eggnog and a pinch of salt, continue cooking for a couple more minutes until lightly thickened, then remove from the heat and cool the custard to room temperature.

4. In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone until smooth, then in another chilled bowl whip the cold heavy cream, vanilla, and nutmeg to soft peaks.

5. Fold the cooled eggnog custard into the mascarpone, then gently fold in the whipped cream in two or three additions until you have a thick, fluffy eggnog mascarpone cream.

6. Stir the cooled coffee and dark rum or brandy, if using, together in the shallow dish and taste, adding a little extra eggnog or nutmeg if desired.

7. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for 1 to 2 seconds per side, then arrange a snug layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of an 8×8 inch dish.

8. Spread half of the eggnog mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers in an even layer, smoothing the top with a spatula.

9. Add a second layer of dipped ladyfingers, then spread the remaining cream over the top and smooth the surface.

10. Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the layers are fully set and sliceable.

11. Just before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder and a little extra nutmeg, then slice and serve chilled.

Notes

Use cold heavy cream and room-temperature mascarpone so the filling whips up smooth and fluffy without lumps.

Dip each ladyfinger very briefly so it absorbs coffee but does not become soggy and fall apart in your hands.

For an alcohol-free version, simply replace the rum or brandy with extra cooled coffee or eggnog in the soaking mixture.

  • Prep Time: 25
  • Cook Time: 10
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 24
  • Sodium: 180
  • Fat: 28
  • Saturated Fat: 16
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 34
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 7
  • Cholesterol: 210

Keywords: eggnog tiramisu, Christmas dessert, holiday tiramisu, no bake tiramisu, make ahead dessert

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