Creamy Gingerbread Tiramisu – A Festive Twist on a Classic Dessert

If you love traditional tiramisu but crave something warmer, spicier, and perfect for the holidays, Creamy Gingerbread Tiramisu is about to become your new favorite dessert. This indulgent, no-bake treat combines the rich elegance of classic Italian tiramisu with the cozy, aromatic flavors of gingerbread — cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and molasses — all layered into a creamy, cloud-like dessert that feels both nostalgic and luxurious.

Gingerbread desserts have long been associated with winter celebrations, Christmas gatherings, and cozy evenings, while tiramisu represents effortless sophistication. When these two worlds collide, the result is a show-stopping dessert that looks impressive, tastes unforgettable, and is surprisingly simple to prepare.

This holiday tiramisu recipe is perfect for Christmas dinner, Thanksgiving leftovers, winter parties, or anytime you want a dessert that feels special without turning on the oven. The layers of gingerbread cookies soaked in warm spiced liquid, paired with a luscious mascarpone cream, create a dessert that’s balanced, not overly sweet, and deeply satisfying.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Gingerbread Tiramisu

There are countless reasons this dessert deserves a place on your holiday table:

• No-bake convenience – Ideal for busy holidays when oven space is precious
• Rich yet light texture – Creamy without being heavy
• Festive flavor profile – Warm spices, subtle sweetness, and comforting aromas
• Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better after chilling overnight
• Crowd-pleasing presentation – Elegant enough for special occasions

Unlike traditional tiramisu, which relies heavily on coffee and cocoa, this gingerbread version leans into seasonal spices and cozy sweetness, making it especially appealing to guests who may not love coffee-based desserts.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients

• Gingerbread cookies or gingerbread cake slices
• Mascarpone cheese
• Heavy whipping cream
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Ground ginger
• Ground cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Molasses (optional, for depth)
• Milk or spiced coffee (for soaking)
• Cocoa powder (for dusting)
• Crushed gingerbread cookies (for garnish)

Each ingredient plays an important role. The mascarpone provides richness, the whipped cream adds airiness, and the spices bring warmth and unmistakable holiday flavor.

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Cream Layer
   In a large mixing bowl, beat mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until fully combined and silky.
2. Whip the Cream
   In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture using a spatula, taking care not to deflate the mixture.
3. Prepare the Soaking Liquid
   In a shallow bowl, combine milk (or spiced coffee if desired) with a small drizzle of molasses for extra depth. Stir well.
4. Assemble the Layers
   Quickly dip gingerbread cookies into the soaking liquid, just long enough to moisten without making them soggy. Arrange a layer at the bottom of your serving dish.
5. Add Cream Layer
   Spread a generous layer of the mascarpone cream over the gingerbread base, smoothing it evenly.
6. Repeat Layers
   Continue layering soaked gingerbread and cream until you reach the top of the dish, finishing with a cream layer.
7. Chill
   Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
8. Garnish and Serve
   Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder and sprinkle crushed gingerbread cookies for texture.

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Tips for the Perfect Gingerbread Tiramisu

• Don’t oversoak the gingerbread — quick dips prevent mushy layers
• Chill overnight for best flavor and structure
• Use high-quality mascarpone for the creamiest texture
• Balance sweetness by adjusting sugar based on cookie sweetness

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Variations to Try

• Alcohol-Free Version: Stick with milk or spiced tea for soaking
• Adult Version: Add dark rum or coffee liqueur
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gingerbread cookies
• Individual Servings: Assemble in small glasses or jars

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Serving Suggestions

Serve Creamy Gingerbread Tiramisu chilled, paired with hot coffee, chai tea, or mulled wine. It’s ideal as a holiday finale, dessert buffet star, or cozy winter indulgence.

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Cultural & Seasonal Inspiration

Gingerbread dates back centuries as a symbol of celebration and warmth, while tiramisu represents Italian culinary comfort. Combining them creates a dessert that bridges cultures and traditions — perfect for modern holiday tables.

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Storage & Make-Ahead Advice

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Flavors intensify over time, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert for stress-free entertaining.