If you’re a fan of bold, tropical flavors and the rich creaminess of tiramisu, then this Caribbean Rum Tiramisu is a dessert you absolutely have to try. This Caribbean twist on the classic Italian tiramisu combines smooth mascarpone cheese and cocoa with the warm, spiced notes of Caribbean rum and a hint of tropical coffee, creating a decadent dessert that feels like a trip to paradise with every bite. Each layer is infused with creamy sweetness and a gentle hint of rum, making it perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or a delightful treat just for yourself.
Traditional tiramisu gets its richness from a combination of espresso, mascarpone, and a splash of liqueur, usually Marsala wine. But in this version, we swap the wine for Caribbean dark rum and coffee that’s slightly sweetened to mimic the flavors of island-style coffee. This rum-soaked coffee gives the dessert a deeper, slightly spiced flavor that pairs beautifully with the mascarpone cream, making every bite luscious and complex. With cocoa powder dusted on top, it’s a dessert that’s both indulgent and elegantly simple.
This Caribbean Rum Tiramisu is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully in the fridge. Serve it in a large dish for a family-style dessert or create individual servings in small glasses for an elevated presentation. Either way, you’ll have a dessert that’s sure to impress and delight!
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
For the Coffee-Rum Mixture:
• 1½ cups brewed coffee (strong and slightly cooled)
• ⅓ cup Caribbean dark rum
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
For the Mascarpone Cream:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Assembling:
• 24-28 ladyfinger cookies
• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
• Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Coffee-Rum Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the brewed coffee, Caribbean rum, and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Make the Mascarpone Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated, creating a light and fluffy cream.
3. Dip the Ladyfingers: Working one at a time, dip each ladyfinger into the coffee-rum mixture for 1-2 seconds. Make sure not to soak them too long, as they can become soggy. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish or individual serving glasses.
4. Layer the Tiramisu: Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the layer of ladyfingers, smoothing it out with a spatula. Dust a light layer of cocoa powder over the cream, then repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone cream.
5. Chill the Tiramisu: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the ladyfingers to soften.
6. Serve: Just before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu generously with cocoa powder. For extra flair, sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings. Serve chilled and enjoy the tropical twist on this classic dessert!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this dessert non-alcoholic?
Yes! Simply omit the rum and replace it with an extra ⅓ cup of coffee. For a hint of flavor, you can add a few drops of rum extract instead.
What can I use if I can’t find mascarpone?
Cream cheese is an acceptable substitute. Just soften it well and beat it until smooth for the best texture. However, mascarpone provides a richer, more authentic taste.
How long will this tiramisu last in the fridge?
Tiramisu can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. It actually gets better with time as the flavors meld together!
Can I add extra spices to the coffee-rum mixture?
Definitely! A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a nice warmth to the flavors, complementing the Caribbean theme.
Can I use another type of cookie instead of ladyfingers?
If you can’t find ladyfingers, you can use sponge cake or biscotti as a substitute, though the texture will vary slightly.
This Caribbean Rum Tiramisu is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, bringing in the flavors of the islands with each delicious bite. The combination of coffee, rich mascarpone, and tropical rum makes this dessert both unique and satisfying. Whether served as a showstopping finale to a dinner party or just as a treat for yourself, this tiramisu is a little taste of paradise you’ll want to savor. Enjoy!
