This no bake Nutella tiramisu is a simple dessert that combines classic tiramisu with the rich chocolate-hazelnut flavor of Nutella. Creamy mascarpone filling, coffee-soaked sponge biscuits, and layers of chocolate create a dessert that looks impressive but comes together with very little effort. Since there’s no baking involved, it’s an excellent make-ahead treat for family dinners, celebrations, or whenever you’re craving a chilled dessert.
The combination of coffee, Nutella, and mascarpone creates a balanced flavor that is smooth, creamy, and lightly sweet. After chilling in the refrigerator, the layers become perfectly soft while still holding their shape, making every slice delicious and satisfying.
1. No Bake Nutella Tiramisu Recipe (Yield: 8 Servings)
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 1 x 250g tub mascarpone
- 100g Nutella
- 200ml double cream
- 1 tbsp coffee liqueur, such as Kahlúa or Tia Maria
- 3 tbsp icing sugar
For the layers:
- 150g Savoiardi sponge biscuits
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
For the soaking liquid:
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp sugar (any kind)
- 250ml hot, strong coffee made with 2 tbsp instant coffee granules (or freshly brewed filter/cafetière coffee)
- 4 tbsp coffee liqueur, such as Kahlúa or Tia Maria
Instructions
Start by preparing the coffee soaking mixture. Stir the cocoa powder and sugar into the hot coffee until completely dissolved. Add the coffee liqueur and mix well. Transfer the mixture to a shallow dish and leave it to cool to room temperature before using. The liquid should be cool so it doesn’t make the biscuits fall apart too quickly.
In a large mixing bowl, add the mascarpone, Nutella, icing sugar, and 1 tablespoon of coffee liqueur. Mix gently with a spatula or hand mixer on low speed until the mixture becomes smooth and evenly blended. Avoid overmixing because mascarpone can become grainy if beaten too much.
In another chilled bowl, whip the double cream until soft peaks form. The cream should hold its shape while still looking smooth and creamy. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the Nutella and mascarpone mixture using a spatula. Fold slowly until everything is fully combined and no white streaks remain. This creates a light and airy filling.
Choose an 8-inch square dish or a similar-sized serving dish. Dip each Savoiardi biscuit into the cooled coffee mixture for about one second per side. The biscuits should absorb some liquid but remain firm enough to hold their shape. Arrange a single layer of soaked biscuits across the bottom of the dish.
Spread half of the Nutella mascarpone filling evenly over the biscuits. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the surface into an even layer.
Repeat the process by dipping another layer of biscuits into the coffee mixture and placing them over the cream layer. Cover with the remaining Nutella filling and smooth the top until level.
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 6 hours. For the best texture and flavor, chill overnight. The resting time allows the biscuits to soften and the flavors to blend together beautifully.
Just before serving, remove the tiramisu from the refrigerator and dust the top generously with cocoa powder using a fine sieve. Slice into portions and serve chilled.
Leftover tiramisu can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often become even better after the first day.
2. Tips for Perfect No Bake Nutella Tiramisu
Use mascarpone straight from the refrigerator so it stays thick and blends smoothly with the Nutella. If it becomes too warm, the filling may lose some of its structure.
Chill the mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream. Cold equipment helps the cream whip faster and creates a more stable filling.
Dip each sponge biscuit quickly into the coffee mixture instead of soaking it for several seconds. The biscuits continue absorbing moisture as the dessert chills, so a quick dip prevents them from becoming mushy.
Allow the coffee mixture to cool completely before dipping the biscuits. Warm coffee softens the biscuits too quickly and can make the layers uneven.
Fold the whipped cream gently into the mascarpone mixture instead of stirring vigorously. Gentle folding keeps the filling light and fluffy.
Smooth each cream layer evenly before adding the next biscuit layer. Even layers help the finished tiramisu slice neatly.
Refrigerate the dessert overnight if possible. Extra chilling time improves the texture, making the layers firm enough for clean slices while allowing the flavors to fully develop.
Dust the cocoa powder immediately before serving instead of during refrigeration. This keeps the cocoa looking fresh and prevents moisture from darkening the surface.
3. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dessert a day ahead?
Yes. In fact, preparing it a day in advance is recommended. The extra chilling time allows the biscuits to soften evenly and helps the filling become firm, resulting in cleaner slices and richer flavor.
Can I make this recipe without coffee liqueur?
Absolutely. Replace the coffee liqueur with additional brewed coffee or a splash of vanilla extract. You’ll still enjoy a delicious dessert with plenty of coffee flavor.
Can I freeze Nutella tiramisu?
Yes. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Dust with fresh cocoa powder after thawing for the best presentation.
Why is my filling too soft?
A soft filling usually happens if the cream was under-whipped, the mascarpone was overmixed, or the dessert wasn’t chilled long enough. Using cold ingredients and allowing enough refrigeration time helps create a firmer texture.
Can I serve this in individual dessert glasses?
Yes. Individual glasses are an attractive option for parties or special occasions. Simply layer the soaked biscuits and cream mixture in small serving glasses and chill as directed before serving.
4. Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 485 kcal |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 36 g |
| Sugars | 23 g |
| Fat | 35 g |
| Saturated Fat | 21 g |
| Cholesterol | 95 mg |
| Sodium | 105 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Calcium | 105 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
| Potassium | 210 mg |
No bake Nutella tiramisu is a wonderful dessert that delivers rich flavor with surprisingly little effort. Simple ingredients come together in beautiful layers that are creamy, smooth, and full of chocolate and coffee goodness, making it an excellent choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
Prepare it ahead of time, let it chill until perfectly set, and enjoy a dessert that slices beautifully and tastes even better after resting in the refrigerator. It’s a recipe you’ll enjoy making again for birthdays, holidays, and everyday treats.
