This Millionaire’s Tiramisu blends the rich traditions of Italian tiramisu with the British love for caramel shortbread, resulting in a dessert that is indulgently satisfying. Layers of espresso-soaked chocolate sponge, creamy mascarpone, salted caramel, and buttery shortbread crumbs come together in a luxurious harmony of flavors and textures. Perfect for celebrations or cozy evenings, this dessert elevates the art of tiramisu-making. Each bite delivers a balance of sweetness, coffee richness, and velvety cream, making it a surefire crowd-pleaser. Prepare it ahead for a hassle-free yet show-stopping treat that’s guaranteed to impress.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Sponge:
- 110g self-raising flour
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 30g cocoa powder
- 15g cornflour
- 90g caster sugar
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 165ml full-fat milk, room temperature
- 1 tsp distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 35ml flavorless oil
For the Espresso:
- 20g instant espresso powder
- 450ml hot water (not boiling)
- Optional: Substitute 150ml water with dark rum, whiskey, or Irish cream liqueur
Additional Ingredients:
- 100g shortbread biscuits
- 250g full-fat mascarpone (room temperature)
- 600ml double cream (room temperature)
- 3 tbsp icing sugar
- 225g caramel (dulce de leche or similar)
- 1 tsp fleur de sel or flaky sea salt
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
Directions:
- Make the Chocolate Sponge: Preheat the oven to 170ºC (340ºF) fan. Grease and line a 20 x 31.5cm cake tin. Mix the milk, vinegar, vanilla, and oil in a jug and let it sit for 5 minutes. Sift the flour, baking powder, cocoa, cornflour, sugar, and salt into a bowl. Combine with the milk mixture and whisk until smooth. Bake for 18-20 minutes. Cool and slice into 12 fingers.
- Prepare the Espresso: Stir the espresso powder into hot water and add liqueur if desired.
- Crush Shortbread: Use a rolling pin to crush biscuits into coarse crumbs.
- Salted Caramel: Microwave caramel for 30 seconds, stir in salt, and let it cool.
- Mascarpone Cream: Beat mascarpone, cream, and sugar until thick.
- Layering: Dip sponge fingers in espresso briefly. Layer half of them in a dish. Spread half of the cream, shortbread crumbs, and caramel. Repeat. Dust with cocoa powder.
- Refrigerate: Cover with cling film and refrigerate for 12-72 hours before serving.
Prep Time: 1 hour | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Additional Time: 12 hours | Total Time: 13 hours 20 minutes
Calories: 577 kcal | Servings: 12
Millionaire’s Tiramisu: A Decadent Fusion of Cultures
Desserts are more than just a meal’s sweet ending they’re a celebration of culture, creativity, and the joy of culinary innovation. One such masterpiece that embodies these qualities is Millionaire’s Tiramisu. This dessert is a delightful fusion of two beloved treats: the classic Italian tiramisu and the indulgent British millionaire’s shortbread. By marrying the rich, coffee-soaked sponge layers of tiramisu with the luxurious caramel and shortbread elements of millionaire’s shortbread, this recipe creates an irresistible treat that is as sophisticated as it is comforting.
The Inspiration Behind Millionaire’s Tiramisu
Traditional tiramisu, a dessert hailing from Italy, is an iconic dish made with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone. It’s finished with a dusting of cocoa powder, offering a balance of bitterness and sweetness. Millionaire’s shortbread, on the other hand, is a Scottish favorite known for its three decadent layers: a buttery shortbread base, gooey caramel, and a smooth chocolate topping.
Millionaire’s Tiramisu combines the best aspects of these two desserts into one show-stopping dish. The espresso-soaked sponge replaces traditional ladyfingers, while mascarpone cream adds the signature fluffiness of tiramisu. To elevate the dish further, salted caramel and shortbread crumbs bring a textural contrast and depth of flavor.
A Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a special treat for a quiet night in, Millionaire’s Tiramisu is a versatile dessert that fits any occasion. Its luxurious layers and decadent flavors make it a centerpiece-worthy dish for celebrations, yet its comforting sweetness ensures it feels just as right served casually at home.
One of the best features of this recipe is its make-ahead quality. Preparing the tiramisu in advance not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully in the refrigerator. The espresso penetrates the sponge, the mascarpone cream thickens, and the caramel infuses every layer with its buttery richness. This dessert is at its best after resting for at least 12 hours, making it an ideal choice for stress-free entertaining.
The Art of Balancing Flavors
Millionaire’s Tiramisu is a dessert that pays meticulous attention to flavor balance. Each layer plays a crucial role in creating harmony on the palate.
- Espresso-Soaked Sponge: The robust bitterness of espresso contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of caramel and cream. For an extra celebratory touch, the addition of dark rum or Irish cream liqueur enhances the sponge’s complexity.
- Mascarpone Cream: The mascarpone and cream mixture adds lightness, ensuring the dessert isn’t overly dense. Its subtle sweetness perfectly complements the bold espresso.
- Salted Caramel: This layer is where the millionaire’s shortbread influence shines. The hint of salt cuts through the richness, enhancing both the sweetness and the coffee’s intensity.
- Shortbread Crumbs: These crumbs add a delightful crunch, breaking up the creaminess and giving the dessert a unique textural element.
- Cocoa Powder: The final dusting of cocoa powder ties the flavors together with a slight bitter finish, leaving the palate refreshed and ready for another bite.
Why Egg-Free?
One standout feature of this recipe is its egg-free approach, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. Traditional tiramisu relies on raw eggs for its creamy base, but Millionaire’s Tiramisu achieves the same luscious texture using whipped cream and mascarpone. This adaptation ensures safety and simplicity while still delivering indulgent results.
Tips for Customization
Millionaire’s Tiramisu is a versatile recipe that invites creativity. Here are a few ideas to tailor it to your taste or occasion:
- Flavor Variations: Substitute espresso with strong brewed coffee or even hot chocolate for a milder flavor. Liqueurs like amaretto, Baileys, or Kahlúa can be used to complement the dessert’s profile.
- Seasonal Twists: Add seasonal elements like fresh berries, orange zest, or spiced caramel for a holiday-inspired version.
- Texture Play: Experiment with the shortbread crumbs—try incorporating crushed nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt flakes for added texture.
- Presentation: Serve the tiramisu in individual glasses or jars for a modern, elegant touch.
A Celebration of Culinary Fusion
Millionaire’s Tiramisu is more than just a dessert it’s a testament to the joy of blending culinary traditions. By combining the richness of British caramel shortbread with the elegance of Italian tiramisu, this recipe creates a harmonious dish that speaks to dessert lovers worldwide. Each bite offers a journey through layers of flavor and texture, from the intense espresso to the buttery caramel and airy mascarpone cream.
Conclusion:
In a world of countless dessert options, Millionaire’s Tiramisu stands out as a recipe that truly delivers on indulgence and flavor. It’s a dish that invites you to savor each layer, offering a sensory experience that feels both familiar and excitingly new. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe’s straightforward preparation and crowd-pleasing results make it a must-try.
So, the next time you’re planning a dessert menu, consider Millionaire’s Tiramisu. It’s not just a sweet treat it’s a celebration of culinary creativity, tradition, and the simple joy of sharing something delicious with the people you love.