Description
This Protein Tiramisu is a healthier twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring a creamy blend of farmer cheese or cottage cheese for added protein, layered with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and dusted with cocoa powder. It’s a refreshing and satisfying treat perfect for dessert lovers looking to enjoy tiramisu with a boost of protein and less guilt.
Ingredients
Cream Filling
- 16 oz farmer cheese or cottage cheese, blended (about 2 cups)
- 2 Tbsp milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Coffee Base
- 1½ cup cold espresso (made with instant espresso powder)
- 2 Tbsp rum (optional)
Other Ingredients
- 1 package ladyfingers
- ¼ cup cocoa powder (for dusting the top of the layers)
Instructions
- Prepare the Coffee Base: Combine 1.5 cups of strong brewed instant espresso and rum (if using) in a flat container like a baking dish or Pyrex. Allow the coffee mixture to cool completely to prevent the ladyfingers from melting too quickly when dipped.
- Make the Cream Filling: In a food processor, add the blended farmer cheese or cottage cheese, granulated sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.
- Dip the Ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee mixture, soaking each side for less than one second. Ensure they are moistened but not soggy or dripping with coffee.
- Assemble the Layers: Arrange a single layer of dipped ladyfingers at the bottom of an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking dish. Dust this layer lightly with cocoa powder. Spread half of the protein cream filling evenly over the ladyfingers using a spatula. Repeat by layering dipped ladyfingers followed by the remaining cream filling on top.
- Chill the Tiramisu: Cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours. For the best texture and flavor, chilling for up to 24 hours is recommended.
- Serve: Just before serving, use a fine-mesh sieve to dust a thick, even layer of unsweetened cocoa powder over the top. Slice into portions and enjoy your protein-packed tiramisu.
Notes
- Be sure the espresso mixture is completely cooled before dipping to avoid soggy ladyfingers.
- Using farmer cheese or cottage cheese adds protein but can alter traditional tiramisu texture slightly – blending well ensures smoothness.
- Rum is optional and can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
- Allow longer chilling time for a firmer, more cohesive dessert.
- Use a fine-mesh sieve for an even dusting of cocoa powder on top.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
