Indulgence meets sophistication in this Homemade Coffee Caramel Dessert that combines the rich flavors of coffee, creamy mascarpone, and buttery caramel with the crunch of peanuts. This no-bake dessert is a decadent treat that balances sweetness with subtle bitterness, making it perfect for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.

The layers of this dessert bring together classic and bold flavors. The base features soft Savoiardi cookies soaked in a light coffee mixture, followed by a creamy mascarpone filling. The star of the show, however, is the caramel layer, enriched with butter and cream to create a luscious, velvety texture. Topped with roasted peanuts, this dessert is a delightful mix of creamy, crunchy, and caramelized goodness.

What makes this dessert timeless is its universal appeal and versatility. Whether served as a show-stopping centerpiece at a dinner party or as a special treat for yourself, it’s guaranteed to impress. The combination of simple ingredients and luxurious flavors ensures that this recipe becomes a staple in your dessert repertoire.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Base:

• Savoiardi cookies: 250 g (8.8 oz)
• Milk (warmed): 60 ml (1/4 cup)
• Nescafe instant coffee: 1 tsp (optional)

For the Mascarpone Cream:

• Mascarpone cheese: 250 g (8.8 oz)
• Powdered sugar: 60 g (2.1 oz)
• Cocoa powder: 1 tbsp

For the Caramel Layer:

• Sugar: 180 g (6.3 oz)
• Butter: 150 g (5.3 oz)
• Heavy cream (33–36%): 180 ml (3/4 cup)

For the Topping:

• Roasted peanuts: 200 g (7 oz)

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: ~380 kcal
• Protein: 5 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fat: 28 g
• Fiber: 1 g

Servings

This recipe makes 8–10 servings.

Steps to Prepare

1. Prepare the Base

1. In a shallow bowl, mix the warm milk and instant coffee until dissolved.
2. Dip each Savoiardi cookie briefly into the milk mixture, ensuring they are moist but not soggy.
3. Arrange the soaked cookies in a single layer at the bottom of a rectangular dish (approx. 20×20 cm or 8×8 inches). Set aside.

2. Make the Mascarpone Cream

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder.
2. Whisk until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add 1–2 teaspoons of milk.
3. Spread the mascarpone cream evenly over the cookie layer in the dish.

3. Prepare the Caramel Sauce

1. Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the sugar and let it melt slowly, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Once the sugar has melted and turned a deep amber color, add the butter in small pieces, stirring continuously until fully combined.
3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble vigorously.
4. Reduce the heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the caramel thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

4. Assemble the Dessert

1. Pour the cooled caramel sauce over the mascarpone layer, spreading it evenly.
2. Sprinkle the roasted peanuts generously over the caramel layer for a crunchy topping.

5. Chill and Serve

1. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
2. Slice into squares and serve chilled. For an extra touch, dust with cocoa powder or garnish with additional peanuts.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

This Homemade Coffee Caramel Dessert is a timeless masterpiece because it combines universally loved flavors—coffee, caramel, and cream—into a harmonious dessert that suits any occasion. Its no-bake preparation makes it accessible to both novice and experienced bakers, while the luxurious layers ensure it stands out as a premium treat.

The balance of textures, from the soft cookies and creamy mascarpone to the crunchy peanuts and smooth caramel, creates a multi-sensory experience that keeps you coming back for more. Its versatility also allows for creative variations, such as adding chocolate chips, switching peanuts for almonds, or incorporating flavored syrups into the base.

Tips for Perfect Results

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality mascarpone, fresh cream, and well-roasted peanuts enhance the flavor and texture of the dessert.
2. Don’t Over-Soak the Cookies: Dip the Savoiardi cookies quickly to avoid a soggy base.
3. Be Patient with the Caramel: Watch the sugar closely as it melts to prevent burning. If it seizes, start over for the best results.
4. Chill Completely: Allow enough time for the dessert to chill and set properly, ensuring clean slices when serving.
5. Customize the Topping: Experiment with other nuts, grated chocolate, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for variety.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
A: Yes! This dessert is best prepared a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and the layers to set perfectly.

Q: Can I use regular cream instead of heavy cream?
A: Heavy cream is recommended for its rich texture, but regular cream can work in a pinch. The caramel may be slightly thinner.

Q: What can I substitute for peanuts?
A: Almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans make great substitutes. For a nut-free version, try toasted coconut flakes.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Cream cheese can be used instead of mascarpone, though it will alter the flavor slightly.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store the dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled to maintain its structure.
• Freezing: This dessert can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Reheating Caramel: If the caramel layer hardens too much after refrigeration, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Conclusion

The Homemade Coffee Caramel Dessert with Mascarpone and Peanuts is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. From the rich caramel layer to the creamy mascarpone filling and the crunchy peanut topping, every bite is a testament to the joy of combining simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to suit any occasion, whether as a luxurious ending to a dinner party or a comforting treat on a quiet evening. The dessert’s no-bake nature also makes it an accessible option for all skill levels, ensuring that anyone can enjoy the satisfaction of creating a stunning and delicious masterpiece.

So gather your ingredients, set aside some time, and indulge in the process of crafting this unforgettable dessert. With its balance of flavors, textures, and sheer elegance, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection. This is a dessert you’ll return to time and again, each slice bringing a moment of joy and indulgence.