10 Minute Tiramisu Balls

These 10 Minute Tiramisu Balls capture the rich and creamy essence of the classic Italian dessert Tiramisu in a bite-sized, no-bake format. Perfect for those who crave the flavors of Tiramisu without the time-consuming preparation, these delicious treats are made in just 10 minutes, offering the ideal combination of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa powder.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

  • 200g ladyfingers (savoiardi)

  • ½ cup brewed espresso, cooled

  • 250g mascarpone cheese

  • ½ cup powdered sugar

  • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder

  • 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional)

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Pinch of salt

  • Additional cocoa powder for dusting

Directions

  1. Prepare the Ladyfingers: Crush the ladyfingers in a food processor until they form fine crumbs.

  2. Mix the Mascarpone: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.

  3. Add Espresso and Liqueur: Stir in the cooled espresso and coffee liqueur (if using) into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.

  4. Combine with Ladyfinger Crumbs: Gradually fold in the crushed ladyfingers, ensuring the mixture is well incorporated.

  5. Form the Balls: Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into walnut-sized balls using your hands.

  6. Dust and Chill: Place the formed balls on a lined tray and dust them with cocoa powder. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set, or serve immediately if you prefer a softer texture.

Nutrients

(Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 800-900

  • Protein: 85-95g

  • Fat: 40-45g

  • Carbohydrates: 30-35g

A No-Bake Delight: The Simplicity of Tiramisu Balls

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. Unlike the traditional Tiramisu that requires careful layering and refrigeration, the 10-Minute Tiramisu Balls come together in a matter of minutes and require no baking. The preparation involves just a few easy steps—crushing the ladyfingers, mixing the mascarpone, and combining the ingredients—resulting in a dessert that is both quick and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a last-minute treat for a party, a special celebration, or simply craving something indulgent, these Tiramisu Balls are the answer.

By skipping the complicated layers of Tiramisu, these bite-sized balls provide a portable and mess-free way to enjoy all the flavors of this Italian classic. They are also easy to customize and serve, making them a great addition to a dessert table or as a personal indulgence.

The Richness of Mascarpone Cheese

Mascarpone cheese is the heart of traditional Tiramisu, contributing to the smooth, creamy texture that defines the dessert. In the 10-Minute Tiramisu Balls, mascarpone takes center stage once again, bringing its rich and velvety texture to every bite. The cheese’s delicate flavor balances the boldness of the espresso and the sweetness of the powdered sugar, resulting in a harmonious combination that’s both luxurious and comforting.

Mascarpone is also high in fat, which is one of the reasons it gives Tiramisu its signature richness. This makes it the ideal base for these Tiramisu Balls, providing a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy ladyfinger crumbs and the slight bitterness of the espresso.

Espresso and Coffee Liqueur: The Bold Flavors of Tiramisu

A key component of Tiramisu is the bold coffee flavor that permeates every layer. In these 10-Minute Tiramisu Balls, the richness of brewed espresso takes the place of soaked ladyfingers, ensuring the traditional coffee flavor shines through. The espresso-soaked ladyfingers in a classic Tiramisu are substituted with the convenience of espresso and a pinch of coffee liqueur, adding a deep, aromatic quality to the balls. The espresso soaks into the mascarpone mixture, creating a unified flavor that brings out the best in the other ingredients.

For those looking to enhance the depth of the coffee flavor, the addition of coffee liqueur is optional. The liqueur adds a subtle sweetness and complexity to the Tiramisu Balls, giving them an extra layer of flavor without overwhelming the dessert. If you prefer a more subtle coffee taste, the espresso alone provides a rich foundation, while the liqueur is entirely optional depending on personal preference.

The Crunch of Ladyfingers

Ladyfingers, or savoiardi, are a hallmark of traditional Tiramisu. In this recipe, the ladyfingers provide the necessary texture and crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy mascarpone mixture. By crushing the ladyfingers into fine crumbs, they incorporate seamlessly into the filling, allowing the espresso and mascarpone to flavor every particle. The crunch of the ladyfinger crumbs adds a satisfying texture, balancing the creamy richness of the mascarpone with a light, airy bite.

Ladyfingers are the perfect choice for this dessert because they absorb the espresso and mascarpone mixture without becoming soggy, maintaining a subtle texture throughout the balls. Their delicate sweetness also complements the bitterness of the espresso, creating a perfect balance in each bite.

A Dessert for All Occasions

The 10-Minute Tiramisu Balls are versatile, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner, a holiday celebration, a casual get-together, or a special dessert for a party, these Tiramisu Balls are sure to impress. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to serve, and they’re the perfect finger food, allowing guests to enjoy a sweet treat without the need for utensils or messy cleanup.

These Tiramisu Balls are also an ideal option for portion control, offering an indulgent taste without the temptation to overindulge. If you’re entertaining, you can quickly prepare a large batch of these balls and serve them on a platter, making them an excellent choice for parties or gatherings where you want a delicious dessert that’s easy to handle.

The Elegance of Cocoa Powder

One of the finishing touches for these Tiramisu Balls is the dusting of cocoa powder. The cocoa powder provides a final layer of flavor that enhances the coffee and mascarpone while adding an elegant, visually appealing touch to the dessert. The slight bitterness of the cocoa balances the sweetness of the mascarpone and the ladyfingers, adding a sophisticated finish to each bite.

Cocoa powder is often associated with chocolate desserts, but its use in Tiramisu is traditional and essential. The rich, deep flavor of cocoa is the perfect complement to the creamy, coffee-soaked filling. It provides a beautiful contrast to the light-colored balls, making them visually striking and appetizing.

A Customizable Delight

One of the great things about these Tiramisu Balls is how easily they can be customized. If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can experiment with different types of liqueur or flavorings. For example, a splash of amaretto or hazelnut liqueur could be substituted for the coffee liqueur to introduce a nutty note. You can also adjust the level of sweetness by modifying the amount of powdered sugar or cocoa powder to suit your taste.

For those who are looking to create a lighter version, you can substitute mascarpone with a lighter cream cheese or Greek yogurt to reduce the fat content while still maintaining a creamy texture. Similarly, using a sugar substitute can make the Tiramisu Balls more diabetic-friendly, allowing everyone to indulge in this treat without guilt.

A Dessert That’s Quick and Satisfying

While traditional Tiramisu requires hours of preparation and chilling, these 10-Minute Tiramisu Balls offer an easy, no-bake alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor. In just a short amount of time, you can create a decadent dessert that captures the essence of the classic Tiramisu. The simplicity and speed of the recipe make it an excellent choice for anyone who craves Tiramisu but lacks the time or desire to make the traditional version.

Even though they come together quickly, these Tiramisu Balls are no less impressive in taste or presentation. The creamy, coffee-flavored filling, combined with the crunchy ladyfingers and dusting of cocoa powder, creates a dessert that is every bit as satisfying as the original.

Conclusion: A Perfect Bite-Sized Version of Tiramisu

In conclusion, the 10-Minute Tiramisu Balls offer the perfect solution for those craving the rich, creamy goodness of Tiramisu but without the time and effort required for the traditional recipe. These bite-sized treats are packed with all the classic flavors of Tiramisu, from the espresso-soaked ladyfingers to the mascarpone filling, all finished off with a dusting of cocoa powder. Whether you’re serving them at a party, preparing a quick treat for yourself, or looking for an easy dessert to impress guests, these Tiramisu Balls are sure to be a hit. Their simplicity, elegance, and incredible flavor make them a must-try for any dessert lover.

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