Perfectly Creamy Tiramisu Latte

My deliciously creamy, richly chocolatey Tiramisu Latte topped with a decadent mascarpone cold foam is practically guaranteed to have you singing “That’s amore!” Simply made with just 7 ingredients, this viral tiramisu latte recipe tastes like the classic Italian dessert distilled into a cozy coffee drink. 😋

I don’t know about you, but I’ve got a serious penchant for dessert-coffee mashups. Caramel brûlée lattes, iced apple crisp macchiatos, iced sugar cookie lattes, gingerbread lattes, and chocolate hazelnut cookie cold brews? They’re the Starbucks creations that make me feel most seen.

When the Starbucks tiramisu latte hit back in 2015, I was ecstatic. Of all the many desserts that could be made into coffee drinks, this creamy dreamy Italian dessert that prominently features espresso was a no-brainer! So when it disappeared, never to be seen on the menu again, I was devastated! It just goes to show you: Starbucks giveth, and Starbucks taketh away.

I hadn’t even thought of the drink in years, but then Tommy and I went on a date night to a fancy Italian restaurant and ordered tiramisu for dessert. It got me thinking—why not take the concept of creamy cold foam and give it a cheesy makeover a la Disney’s Cocoa Puff Cold Brew? This decadent dessert-meets-coffee recipe is the result of my musings and ended up being one of my favorite hot drinks ever. I’m pretty sure you’ll love it.

Jump to:

• What is a tiramisu latte?
• What does it taste like?
• Why You’ll Love This Tiramisu Latte Recipe
• Ingredients Needed
• Substitutions
• How To Make A Tiramisu Latte, Starbucks-Style
• Optional Variations & Dietary Adjustments
• Serving Suggestions
• Recipe Success Tips
• FAQs
• Homemade Tiramisu Latte Nutrition
• Other Yummy Latte Recipes
• Perfectly Creamy Tiramisu Latte

What is a tiramisu latte?

This tiramisu-flavored latte is a delectable dessert in a cup, inspired by the classic Italian treat we all adore. It starts with a rich, smooth latte base flavored with cocoa powder, sweet vanilla syrup, and just a hint of rum extract, blending together with milk and a shot (or two!) of bold espresso. 

What truly takes this already dreamy latte to the next level is the topping—a generous dollop of creamy, vanilla-flavored whipped mascarpone cream that’s so lush and velvety, you'll want to dive right in. And just when you think it couldn't get any better, we dust the top with a light sprinkle of cocoa powder and serve a crispy lady finger cookie on the side for that quintessential tiramisu touch. 

What does it taste like?

From the very first sip, you're greeted by sweet, creamy vanilla, dark chocolate, and bold espresso. The subtle hint of rum extract adds a little bit of warmth and intrigue—an echo of a decadent dessert from a candlelit Italian trattoria.

As you continue to sip, the cocoa-dusted mascarpone topping melts on your tongue, richer than a cashmere sweater, and just as luxurious. And don't forget the lady finger cookie on the side, completing the tiramisu effect—perfect for dipping or just nibbling as you sip. In short, it's the ultimate coffee break treat.

Why You’ll Love This Tiramisu Latte Recipe

• Dessert & Coffee In One Cup - If you’ve only got one hand free, why choose? Get your sugar and coffee jollies all in one go. 
• Made With Only 7 Ingredients - It’s wild how rich and decadent of a flavor you can build with just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients. 
• Easy As Can Be - All you need is about 10 minutes worth of prep time for the yummiest treat around!

Ingredients Needed

A short ingredient list belies the incredible richness of this tiramisu latte. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mascarpone Cheese - This Italian soft cheese has the consistency of cream cheese, but with a naturally sweet ricotta-like flavor. You should be able to find it near specialty cheeses in most grocery stores.
• Heavy Whipping Cream - The higher the fat content, the more stable the topping. 
• Whole Milk - Using whole milk adds another layer of richness and creamy mouthfeel.
• Vanilla Simple Syrup - My cheap and easy homemade version has just 3 simple ingredients, though you’re welcome to swap in store-bought if you prefer.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder - If possible, opt for Dutch-processed cocoa powder which has a darker color and deeper, chocolatey-er flavor than conventional cocoa powder.
• Rum Extract - Optional, but the slight boozy flavor does wonders for making this latte taste like a real tiramisu.
• Lady Finger - Optional, for a deliciously dippable garnish. I used crispy ladyfingers from Amazon, but my local grocery store sells soft ones. Either one will work!

Substitutions

• Mascarpone Cheese - Cream cheese is more readily available, and will also work here. Just note that it’ll have a slightly tangier flavor.
• Heavy Cream - You can use slightly lighter whipping cream in place of heavy cream, or swap in vegan whipping cream, full-fat canned coconut milk, or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Whole Milk - Feel free to swap in a lighter dairy milk or the plant-based milk of your choice.
• Vanilla Syrup - Feel free to swap in the flavored coffee syrup of your choice. I feel like sugar cookie syrup, Irish cream syrup, or hazelnut syrup would all be excellent options. 
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder - Feel free to use raw cacao powder for an antioxidant boost, or swap in carob powder if needed.
• Rum Extract - Feel free to omit it, or swap in vanilla extract or half as much almond extract.
• Lady Finger - These cookies are an essential element of making real tiramisu, but you’re welcome to omit them here. You can also swap in whatever style cookie you’re craving!

How To Make A Tiramisu Latte, Starbucks-Style

This dreamy dessert latte comes together in just a few minutes. Here’s how:

Step 1: Warm Latte Base. Add ¾ cups of milk, 1 tablespoon of vanilla syrup, cocoa powder, and rum extract (if using) to a small saucepan and heat over low heat. Whisk continuously until everything is well combined and the milk is warm and starting to steam (do not boil)! Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Soften Cheese. Place the mascarpone cheese in a microwave-safe jar or container and microwave for 5 seconds (just until it's softened).

Step 3: Add heavy cream, 1 tablespoon of milk, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla syrup to the softened cheese.

Step 4: Froth the mascarpone mixture together with a milk frother until smooth, ultra-creamy soft peaks form. Set aside.

Step 5: Brew your coffee or espresso into a large mug, 

Step 6: Top the espresso with the warm chocolate milk mixture. 

Step 7: Dollop the mascarpone cold foam on top.  

Step 8: Garnish & Serve. Dust with more cocoa powder and garnish with a lady finger. Drink up!

Optional Variations & Dietary Adjustments

• Boozy - Add an adults-only indulgence by swapping out the rum extract for a tipple of real rum.
• Dairy-Free - Use the vegan mascarpone, cream, and milk substitutes of your choice to keep it vegan-friendly and lactose-free.
• Decaf - Use decaf espresso or a strongly brewed coffee-free alternative for all the flavor without the fuel. 
• Iced Tiramisu Latte - Instead of heating the milk mixture, use a milk frother, blender, or whisk to mix it while it’s still cold. Pour over ice, top with the mascarpone whipped cream, and enjoy your frosty concoction!

Serving Suggestions

Whether you're hosting a brunch, looking to impress at a book club, or just jazzing up a lazy Sunday, these ideas are sure to make your Tiramisu Latte the star of the show:

• Dessert Times Two: Planning a romantic dinner or a sophisticated soirée? Serve tiramisu lattes as a luxurious dessert coffee. Pair them with a slice of classic tiramisu or a rich chocolate torte to double down on decadence. Bonus points for candles stuck out of empty chianti bottles!
• Brunch Bliss: Introduce this latte at your next brunch gathering and watch it steal the spotlight. It pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory fare. Think fluffy pancakes, delicate crepes, or even a savory quiche. Your guests will be begging for the recipe by the end of the meal.
• A Cozy Reading Companion: Curling up with a good book? Make your reading nook even cozier with a mug of this yum. Don’t forget a plate of lady finger cookies on the side for nibbling!
• Giftable Goodies: Spread the joy by assembling DIY tiramisu latte kits as gifts. Include a small bottle of homemade vanilla syrup, a packet of lady fingers, a bag of local espresso beans, rum extract, and a recipe card. It’s a thoughtful and unique gift for any coffee lover! 

Recipe Success Tips

• Quality Ingredients: Start with the best ingredients you can find. Use a high-quality espresso and real vanilla in your syrup if possible. 
• Perfect the Froth: The mascarpone foam is what sets this latte apart, so take your time to get it right. Use a milk frother to achieve smooth, creamy foam, and be sure the mascarpone is soft enough to blend.
• Serve Immediately: To enjoy the full spectrum of flavors, serve the Tiramisu Latte as soon as it's prepared. The mascarpone foam in particular is best enjoyed fresh, before it begins to dissolve into the warm base.
• Experiment with Garnishes: While traditional tiramisu is dusted with cocoa powder, don't be afraid to experiment. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a delightful twist, or try chocolate shavings for an extra decadent touch. Don’t want a full cookie? Add just a few cookie crumbles on top.

FAQs

Homemade Tiramisu Latte Nutrition

Each serving (not including the lady finger) racks up about 249 calories. It's a bit indulgent with 18 grams of total fat, mainly because of that delicious mascarpone foam. On the protein front, it offers a modest 3 grams—enough to give a little staying power. Sodium is pretty low at 27 mg, which is great if you're watching your salt intake.

Carb-wise, you're looking at 22 grams per serving, with 19 of those coming from sugars. That’s primarily from the vanilla syrup, giving it that sweet, comforting flavor. It’s definitely a treat, so maybe something to enjoy on a special occasion or when you feel like giving yourself a little extra love. Remember: it’s a sippable dessert in a cup!

Total nutritional content per serving is:

• Calories: 249 calories
• Total Fat: 18 grams
• Protein: 3 grams
• Sodium: 27 mg
• Carbohydrates: 22 grams
• Sugar: 19 grams

*This nutritional information is an estimate and calculated based on the ingredients used to create the recipe. The nutritional value of your ingredients may differ slightly. Furthermore, this food is not intended to prevent, diagnose, cure, or treat any disease.

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xoxo Megan