If you’re looking for a dessert that is creamy, rich and completely irresistible- this Olive Garden Tiramisu Recipe is for you. It is a take on the Italian classic tiramisu, and brings that same authentic flavor of coffee soaked lady fingers layered with a rich mascarpone cream and topped with cocoa powder. This dessert is rich, beautiful and surprisingly easy to make at home.
Tiramisu means “pick me up”, and after one bite of this coffee-flavored dessert, you will see why. This is a perfect way to cap off your family dinner, or share with friends over coffee. The best part about this tiramisu is that there is nothing needed to bake- just simply mix together, layer and chill.
If you have enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore our other decadent desserts on our site. If you want another creamy dessert, be sure to check out the Olive Garden Chocolate Lasagna Recipe or, go for another layered chocolate dessert with the Olive Garden Black Tie Mousse Cake Recipe.
Why You’ll Love Olive Garden Tiramisu
You’re going to love how easy this tiramisu comes together. You can whip up a dessert that rivals any you would have at a restaurant by using a handful of ingredients, like espresso, whipped cream, and mascarpone cheese.
This recipe takes on the classic Olive Garden flavor-smooth, creamy, balanced with coffee flavor, cocoa, and full body. It’s rich enough yet not too rich, and you could even tolerate it if you have had a full meal.
This dessert is a show stopper-whether you served for a dinner party or a quiet night at home, this dessert is always right on point. And this dessert is a make-ahead dessert and improves overnight even in the refrigerator.
Ingredients Required for Olive Garden Tiramisu Recipe
Before you start, make sure you have all the following ingredients listed below for this Olive Garden Tiramisu Recipe
- 16 oz mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- 6 large egg yolks
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups heavy cream, cold
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups strong brewed espresso or dark coffee
- ½ cup dark rum (or substitute with ½ cup milk for non-alcoholic version)
- 2 packages ladyfingers (Savoiardi)
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan garlic chocolate for garnish (optional twist)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowls
- Whisk and spatula
- Hand or stand mixer
- Mocha pot or coffee maker
- 9×9-inch baking dish
- Fine mesh sieve for cocoa dusting
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Chilling time: 8 hours (overnight recommended)
How To Make Olive Garden Tiramisu
Just follow these easy steps to make your own Olive Garden Tiramisu at home.
Step 1: Prepare 1 ½ cups of strong espresso or coffee to let cool, you can mix it with ½ cup dark rum if desired, and/or mix it with milk for a kid-friendly version.
Step 2: In a heat-safe bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick while resting over simmering water. Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly.
Step 3: In a second bowl, beat mascarpone cheese smooth. Mix in the egg yolk mixture until creamy.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, beat heavy cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form (3-5 mins). Add ½ of the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, folding to incorporate all the way from the bottom to the top carefully and gently. Add the remainder of the whipped cream and carefully mix together until combined.
Step 5: One ladyfinger at a time, quickly dip one side into the coffee mixture (2 seconds on each side) and layer evenly into the bottom of a 9×9 dish. Spread half of the cream mixture on the top. Take a second layer of ladyfingers dipped into the coffee mixture and layer on top of cream layer followed by remaining cream spread evenly on top of the second layer.
Step 6: Smooth and wipe the sides of the dish. Dust some cocoa powder over the top generously. Cover and chill at least 8 hours or overnight for best flavor and texture.
How to Store Olive Garden Tiramisu Properly?
Store tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Do not freeze-it may lose its creamy texture. Serve chilled straight from the fridge.
What to Pair and Serve with Olive Garden Tiramisu
1. With a shot of espresso or cappuccino
Nothing pairs better with tiramisu than a strong, freshly brewed espresso. The coffee enhances the dessert’s bold flavors while balancing the sweetness perfectly.
2. Alongside a scoop of vanilla bean gelato
We love serving tiramisu with a scoop of creamy gelato for that extra chill and contrast in texture. It’s a match made in dessert heaven!
3. With a drizzle of chocolate ganache
A little warm chocolate sauce drizzled over your tiramisu adds a luxurious touch that makes every bite feel extra indulgent.
4. Topped with shaved dark chocolate and fresh berries
The slight tartness of raspberries or strawberries cuts through the creaminess beautifully. Plus, it looks absolutely stunning when served to guests.
5. With a glass of dessert wine or coffee liqueur
For adults, a small glass of Marsala wine or Baileys complements the rich layers of coffee and mascarpone like nothing else.
6. Next to a slice of Olive Garden Chocolate Lasagna Recipe
When we really want to impress, we serve both desserts together for a chocolate-and-coffee combo that wows every single time.
7. After a savory Italian meal
Tiramisu shines brightest when served after pasta dishes like the Olive Garden Braised Beef and Tortellini Recipe-it’s a sweet finish that completes the experience.
8. Layered in individual dessert cups
For parties, we love building mini tiramisus in glass cups. They’re elegant, easy to serve, and keep the layers picture-perfect.
9. Chilled with a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg
A light sprinkle of spice adds warmth and a lovely aroma, especially around the holidays.
10. With a side of fresh whipped cream
When you want to keep things simple yet luxurious, add a dollop of homemade whipped cream. It makes each bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
My Personal Experience With this Recipe and Some Tips
Last weekend, I made this Olive Garden Tiramisu Recipe for my family, and they all enjoyed it! The layers were creamy and soft, just like at the restaurant! It was fun to make, smelled delicious, and my favorite part was everyone going for seconds!
Tips for Perfect Tiramisu
1. Use cold heavy cream-it whips faster and stays fluffy.
2. Don’t soak ladyfingers too long, or they’ll get mushy.
3. Let it chill overnight for the best flavor.
4. Use strong coffee for a rich taste.
5. Gently fold whipped cream-don’t stir too hard!
6. Dust cocoa powder right before serving for a pretty look.
FAQs on Olive Garden Tiramisu Recipe
Here are some common questions I’ve got you covered about the Olive Garden Tiramisu Recipe.
1. What are the ingredients in Olive Garden tiramisu?
From what we’ve replicated, the key ingredients are mascarpone cheese, egg yolks, sugar, heavy cream, strong espresso (or coffee), ladyfingers, and cocoa powder. We also add a little rum for depth (optional).
2. Does Olive Garden use alcohol in their tiramisu?
In our testing, yes-they often include a touch of liqueur or dark rum mixed with coffee. But we also offer a non-alcoholic version by skipping the rum and using decaf or extra espresso.
3. What is the secret to a good tiramisu?
We believe the secret lies in balance: don’t oversoak the ladyfingers (just ~2 seconds per side), and fold the mascarpone and whipped cream gently to keep it light and airy. Chill it long enough so flavors meld.
4. Is Olive Garden’s tiramisu good?
From our taste trials, yes-it’s very good. It delivers the classic, creamy, coffee-forward flavor with a silky texture that feels elegant yet comforting.
5. Can I make tiramisu without eggs?
We’ve tried eggless versions using whipped cream, mascarpone, and a custard substitute. They work okay, but the texture is lighter and less traditional.
6. How long should tiramisu chill before serving?
From our experience: at least 4 hours, but overnight (8 hours) gives the best firmness and flavor infusion.
7. Why do my ladyfingers get soggy?
That’s usually because they soaked too long in the coffee mixture. We recommend dipping each side for only about 1–2 seconds to avoid sogginess.
8. Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso?
Yes-we’ve done that. Use a very strong instant coffee (or concentrate) so it gives the proper depth. Weak coffee results in bland flavor.
9. How long does tiramisu keep?
We store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Beyond that, the layers may begin to lose texture.
10. Can I freeze tiramisu?
We tested freezing it once, but it became icy and grainy after thawing. We don’t recommend freezing-serve it fresh from the fridge instead.
Tiramisu is a true crowd-pleaser that’s easier to make than it appears. With bold espresso, silky mascarpone, and careful, quick dipping of the ladyfingers, you’ll build layers that are creamy, balanced, and utterly satisfying. Make it a day ahead so the flavors meld and the texture firms perfectly. For a kid-friendly version, skip the rum and use decaf-still rich, still comforting, and always impressive.
More recipes like this: Our site has more delicious recipes like the Elizabeth Heiskell Banana Pudding Recipe and Kevin Belton’s Hummingbird Cake Recipe.
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