Name: 10-Minute Tiramisu Balls Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 200g ladyfingers (savoiardi); ½ cup brewed espresso, cooled; 250g mascarpone cheese; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional); 1 tablespoon cocoa powder; Additional cocoa powder for dusting

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Introduction

These 10 Minute Tiramisu Balls offer a quick and delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert. With no baking required, they combine creamy mascarpone, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and a dusting of cocoa for a delicious bite-sized treat. Perfect for last-minute gatherings or a simple indulgence at home.

A pile of round dessert balls sits on a white plate with a light dusting of cocoa powder underneath and on top. Each ball has three visible layers: the outside is a smooth cream-colored coating, inside is a light brown cake layer, and in the center is a dark, rich filling. The texture looks soft and creamy, with the cocoa powder giving a slightly rough surface contrast. The white marbled background is blurred softly with white cups in the distance. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Instructions

Step 1: Crush the ladyfingers in a food processor until they form fine crumbs.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Step 3: Stir the cooled espresso and coffee liqueur (if using) into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.
Step 4: Gradually fold the crushed ladyfinger crumbs into the mascarpone mixture, mixing well to incorporate.
Step 5: Scoop small portions of the mixture and roll them into walnut-sized balls with your hands.
Step 6: Place the balls on a lined tray, dust them generously with cocoa powder, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set. Serve immediately if you prefer a softer texture.

Tips & Variations

For a boozy version, increase the coffee liqueur slightly or substitute it with a splash of dark rum or brandy.
Try rolling the balls in finely chopped nuts or chocolate shavings instead of cocoa powder for extra texture.
If you don’t have a food processor, crush the ladyfingers in a sealed plastic bag using a rolling pin.

Storage

Store the tiramisu balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, let them sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes for a softer texture. These are not suitable for freezing as the texture may change.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a pile of round dessert balls coated in white cream and dusted with fine brown cocoa powder. Two of the balls are cut open to show three layers inside: a soft light brown outer cake layer, a middle dark brown chocolate filling, and a creamy white inner layer. The cocoa powder is also lightly sprinkled on the plate around the balls, and the background shows a blurred white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these tiramisu balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and chill them up to 3 days in advance, making them perfect for gatherings or meal prep.

What if I don’t drink alcohol or don’t have coffee liqueur?

You can omit the coffee liqueur altogether and still enjoy the rich flavor from the espresso and mascarpone mixture.