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This white chocolate, raspberry and pistachio tiramisu has become my go-to dessert whenever I want something impressive yet surprisingly simple. The combination of creamy mascarpone, tart raspberries and crunchy pistachios layered with delicate ladyfingers soaked in coffee creates a finish that is both luxurious and fresh. It feels fancy but comes together quickly enough for a weekend treat or special occasion.
I first made this for a dinner party when I wanted a light alternative to classic tiramisu. Everyone was surprised by the fresh fruit and creamy layers and now it’s a dessert I make for birthdays and holidays.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Heavy whipping cream: fresh and cold helps achieve fluffy whipped peaks
- Powdered sugar: adds just the right touch of sweetness and dissolves easily
- Fresh raspberries: must be ripe and firm to provide balance with their tartness
- Pistachios: shelled and roughly chopped add crunch and earthy flavor choose unsalted for best control over seasoning
- Brewed espresso or strong coffee: cooled to room temperature infuses the ladyfingers with that signature tiramisu bitterness
- Coffee liqueur: is optional but adds depth and a subtle boozy kick to the coffee soak
How to Make It
- Spoon mascarpone and whip cream mix:
- In a large bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract. Beat with a hand mixer or whisk until soft peaks form. This creates a light and fluffy base that will hold the layers together.
- Melt white chocolate carefully:
- Gently melt white chocolate using a microwave-safe bowl with short bursts or a double boiler setup. Allow it to cool slightly to avoid curdling the cream mixture when combined. Maintaining a smooth temperature keeps the texture silky.
- Fold chocolate into cream:
- Slowly fold the melted white chocolate into the mascarpone and cream mixture using a spatula. Take care not to deflate the whipped cream. This step creates a luscious rich filling without losing airiness.
- Prepare coffee soak:
- In a shallow dish, mix brewed espresso or coffee with coffee liqueur if using. This coffee soak will soften the ladyfingers and add that classic tiramisu fragrance. Ensure the liquid is cooled before dipping.
- Dip ladyfingers and layer:
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger one by one into the coffee mixture making sure they soak through but do not become soggy. Lay them side by side in your serving dish creating the first base layer.
- Assemble tiramisu:
- Spread half of the white chocolate cream over the ladyfingers evenly. Scatter half of the raspberries and pistachios on top. Repeat the layering process with remaining ladyfingers, cream, and berries and nuts.
- Chill and serve:
- Cover the assembled tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling helps the flavors meld and the dessert to set perfectly. Before serving, garnish with additional pistachios or raspberries if desired.
I remember serving this dish at a family gathering and watching everyone’s eyes light up with the first bite.
Flavor Boosters
Store the tiramisu covered tightly in the refrigerator and consume within three days for best freshness. It actually tastes better if allowed to rest overnight to deepen the flavors. Avoid freezing because the texture of the cream and berries changes too much.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this tiramisu chilled in a glass trifle bowl or individual clear cups to showcase the pretty layers. Pair with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a sophisticated finish. Fresh mint leaves can add a hint of herbal freshness on top.
Creative Twists
Traditional tiramisu originates from Italy but this white chocolate and raspberry twist adds a modern touch blending classic and fruity flavors. It’s a delightful variation that brings freshness to a very rich dessert usually made with cocoa and dark coffee.
This recipe balances freshness and richness beautifully making it a perfect showstopper for any occasion.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → Can I substitute coffee liqueur with another ingredient?
Yes, you can replace coffee liqueur with strong brewed coffee or espresso for a non-alcoholic version, maintaining the rich coffee flavor.
- → How do I prevent ladyfingers from becoming soggy?
Quickly dip ladyfingers into the coffee mixture ensuring they absorb moisture without soaking too long. This keeps layers intact and texture balanced.
- → What texture should the whipped cream mixture have?
Beat the mascarpone, cream, and sugar until soft peaks form, creating a light but stable mixture that folds smoothly with melted white chocolate.
- → Are fresh raspberries essential for flavor?
Fresh raspberries provide a vibrant tartness that complements the sweetness of white chocolate, enhancing the overall flavor profile noticeably.
- → Can pistachios be replaced with other nuts?
While pistachios add a unique flavor and crunch, almonds or hazelnuts can be used as alternatives to suit personal tastes.