Dessert

Cranberry Tiramisu: Indulge in This Festive Delight! Recipe

ByCharlotte Montgomery December 14, 2025December 14, 2025

Introduction

Cranberry tiramisu offers a festive twist on the classic Italian dessert, blending tart cranberries with rich mascarpone and coffee-soaked ladyfingers. It’s a perfect treat for holiday gatherings or any special occasion when you want a dessert that’s both elegant and flavorful.

A close-up of a multi-layered dessert shows three main layers: the bottom layer is a light brown sponge cake with a soft texture, the middle layer is thick, creamy, and white, and the top layer is another thin sponge cake with a golden brown crust. Between the bottom and middle sponge layers and the middle creamy layer is a bright red berry jam with a chunky texture that slightly drips over the sides. On top of the dessert, there is a thick spread of the same red berry jam, decorated with fresh red cranberries dusted with white powdered sugar and a small sprig of green rosemary also sprinkled with powdered sugar. The dessert sits on a white plate, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup granulated sugar, divided
1 cup water
1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
1/2 cup coffee liqueur (optional)
1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 package (7 ounces) ladyfinger cookies
Cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, 1/2 cup sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 2: In a shallow dish, mix brewed coffee and coffee liqueur if using. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for 1 to 2 seconds, making sure they are soaked but not soggy.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with the remaining 1/2 cup sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the mascarpone cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: To assemble, spread a layer of the mascarpone mixture in the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish. Layer half of the soaked ladyfingers on top, followed by half of the cranberry mixture. Repeat the layers ending with a final layer of mascarpone.
Step 5: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh cranberries when in season for the best flavor, or frozen cranberries if not available; just thaw them before cooking.
For an alcohol-free version, omit the coffee liqueur and replace it with extra brewed coffee.
Add a sprinkle of orange zest to the cranberry mixture for a bright, citrusy note.
Make individual servings in glass cups or jars for a charming presentation.

Storage

Store cranberry tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors improve after sitting overnight. When ready to serve, you can dust with additional cocoa powder. Reheat is not recommended, as this dessert is best enjoyed chilled.

How to Serve

A close-up of a square slice of layered dessert on a white plate, showing three layers: the bottom and middle layers are light brown sponge cake soaked and soft, sandwiched between thick, creamy white custard layers. On top, there is a dark golden brown dusting and a thick spread of bright red berry compote that oozes slightly over the edges, crowned with fresh, round cranberries dusted with powdered sugar and a small sprig of green rosemary. The dessert sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare cranberry tiramisu ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best to prepare it at least 4 hours ahead, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the ladyfingers to soften perfectly.

Can I substitute mascarpone cheese with cream cheese?

You can use cream cheese in a pinch, but mascarpone provides a lighter, creamier texture and authentic flavor that’s ideal for tiramisu.

Charlotte Montgomery