Description

Cranberry Tiramisu is a festive twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring tart cranberry compote layered with creamy mascarpone and delicate ladyfinger cookies soaked in coffee and liqueur. This no-bake dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings, combining refreshing berry flavors with the rich texture of traditional tiramisu.

Ingredients

Scale

Cranberry Compote

2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water

Soaking Mixture

1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
1/2 cup coffee liqueur (optional)

Mascarpone Cream

1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Assembly

1 package (7 ounces) ladyfinger cookies
Cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

Make the Cranberry Compote: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, 1/2 cup of sugar, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely.
Prepare the Coffee Soak: In a shallow dish, mix the cooled brewed coffee with the coffee liqueur, if using. Quickly dip each ladyfinger cookie into the coffee mixture for 1-2 seconds, ensuring they absorb some liquid but do not become soggy.
Make the Mascarpone Cream: 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 softened mascarpone cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Tiramisu: Spread a layer of the mascarpone mixture on the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish. Arrange half of the soaked ladyfingers on top, then spread half of the cranberry compote over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of mascarpone cream, the remaining ladyfingers, and the rest of the cranberry compote. Finish with a final layer of mascarpone cream.
Chill and Serve: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set. Just before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder.

Notes

For a non-alcoholic version, omit the coffee liqueur or replace it with additional coffee.
Ensure the ladyfingers are dipped briefly to prevent sogginess.
Leftover cranberry compote can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The dessert can be made a day ahead, making it convenient for entertaining.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: cranberry tiramisu, holiday dessert, no-bake tiramisu, festive tiramisu, cranberry dessert, mascarpone dessert