If you have a passion for desserts that combine elegance with comfort, the Tiramisu Crêpes Cake Roll Recipe is going to become your new favorite indulgence. This dazzling creation layers delicately thin cocoa-infused crêpes with a luscious mascarpone cream enriched by the warmth of coffee liqueur and the subtle bitterness of cocoa powder. Each bite delivers the dreamy texture of classic tiramisu transformed by the light, pliable crêpes and a tender cake roll presentation that feels both special and approachable. Whether you’re looking for a showstopping dessert for guests or a sweet treat to brighten your day, this recipe brings the timeless Italian flavors of tiramisu to an entirely new and irresistible format.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Tiramisu Crêpes Cake Roll Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients, each bringing something magical to the plate. From the fluffy crêpes to the rich mascarpone cream, every component works in harmony to create a stunning balance of flavors, textures, and colors.
- 4 large eggs: Essential for a light, tender batter and a silk-smooth cream base.
- 420 ml cold whole milk: Gives the crêpes their soft, pliable texture without sacrificing richness.
- 190 grams all-purpose flour: The backbone for perfectly thin, flexible crêpes.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps achieve a delicate, tender crumb in the crêpe layers.
- 25 grams unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a hint of chocolate depth and warmth to the crêpes.
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar: Provides subtle sweetness balancing the cocoa and coffee notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt: Enhances all the flavors for a well-rounded taste.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Offers fragrant sweetness that lifts the tiramisu cream.
- 3 tablespoons salted butter, melted: Adds richness and ensures a smooth batter.
- 2 egg yolks: For a velvety, thick custard that enriches the filling.
- 60 grams granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard layer beautifully.
- 200 grams mascarpone cheese, room temperature: The star ingredient that makes the cream luxuriously smooth and creamy.
- 300 ml double cream or heavy cream: Whipped to fluffy perfection to give the filling lightness.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Deepens the aroma of the cream.
- 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional): Adds that legendary tiramisu espresso kick and complexity.
- Cocoa powder, for dusting: A finishing touch that imparts a classic bittersweet contrast.
- Biscuits, for assembly: Soaked in coffee liqueur, they add texture and concentrated coffee flavor between the layers.
How to Make Tiramisu Crêpes Cake Roll Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crêpe Batter
Begin by sifting together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, cold milk, and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth. Gradually whisk the wet mixture into the dry ingredients to prevent lumps, then stir in the melted butter. Let this batter rest for 20 to 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate overnight to hydrate the flour and develop tender crêpes that practically melt in your mouth.
Step 2: Cook the Cocoa Crêpes
Heat a nonstick skillet or crêpe pan over medium heat and lightly grease if needed. Pour about 60 ml of batter into the pan, swirling it to create a thin, even layer. Cook the crêpe for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the edges lift and the underside sets, then flip and cook another 30 seconds to 1 minute. Carefully transfer to a rack or plate to cool. Repeat until all the batter is used, stacking the crêpes with parchment to keep them soft.
Step 3: Make the Mascarpone Custard
In a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, whisk the egg yolks and sugar constantly for 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture turns thick, pale, and the sugar dissolves completely—this step creates a luscious custard foundation. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Step 4: Whip the Cream Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk together the double cream and mascarpone until stiff peaks form and the mixture is well combined. Gently fold in the tempered egg yolk custard along with vanilla extract and coffee liqueur, blending carefully to preserve the airy texture while infusing the classic tiramisu flavors.
Step 5: Assemble the Tiramisu Crêpes Cake Roll Recipe
Arrange the cooled crêpes overlapping on a lined sheet pan to avoid gaps. Spread a layer of the mascarpone cream over them, then scatter biscuits soaked briefly in coffee liqueur on top of the filling. Continue layering cream and soaked biscuits until you’ve used all the filling. Then carefully fold and roll the layered crêpes into a tight log, keeping the filling securely inside. Chill this cake roll for at least 4 hours to let the flavors meld and the dessert set properly.
Step 6: Finish with a Cocoa Powder Dusting
Right before serving, dust the tiramisu crêpes cake roll generously with cocoa powder to give it that final visually stunning and slightly bittersweet finish that perfectly complements the sweet and creamy filling inside.
How to Serve Tiramisu Crêpes Cake Roll Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Tiramisu Crêpes Cake Roll Recipe, try garnishing with a few fresh coffee beans or delicate chocolate shavings for texture and visual appeal. A light dusting of cocoa powder is classic and helps bring out the rich chocolate and coffee nuances.
Side Dishes
This dessert is truly a showstopper on its own but pairs beautifully with a small cup of rich espresso, a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream, or even fresh berries to introduce a refreshing contrast. Simple is best to keep the focus on the cake roll’s layered complexity.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the cake roll into generous portions and serving on elegant plates with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce around the edges. For celebrations, add edible gold leaf or a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive look. Individual slices can also be plated with a tiny scoop of vanilla gelato for an extra indulgent touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once rolled and chilled, leftover Tiramisu Crêpes Cake Roll Recipe slices can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This timeline ensures freshness and keeps the mascarpone cream from becoming watery.
Freezing
While the cake roll is best enjoyed fresh for maximum texture and flavor, you can freeze it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 weeks. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, though the crêpe layers might soften slightly after freezing.
Reheating
It’s recommended to serve this dessert chilled, as reheating would alter its delicate texture and the mascarpone cream’s lusciousness. If you prefer it less cold, simply leave the slice out at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before eating.
FAQs
Can I make the batter the night before?
Absolutely! Resting the crêpe batter overnight in the refrigerator can actually improve the texture by allowing the flour to fully absorb the liquid, resulting in even softer crêpes for your cake roll.
Is coffee liqueur necessary?
No, it’s optional but highly recommended. Coffee liqueur adds depth and authentic tiramisu flavor, but you can substitute with a strong brewed espresso or omit it if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
What kind of biscuits should I use?
Light, crisp biscuits like ladyfingers or savoiardi are traditional and perfect for soaking in coffee liqueur without falling apart, adding subtle texture to the layers.
Can I use low-fat mascarpone?
For the creamiest texture, full-fat mascarpone is best, but lower-fat versions can be used, though the filling might be slightly less rich and smooth.
How thin should the crêpes be?
Very thin—just enough to be flexible without breaking. About 1-2 millimeters thick is ideal, allowing you to roll the cake tightly with layers of cream and biscuits inside.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly special about transforming classic tiramisu flavors into an elegant cake roll with tender cocoa crêpes, luxurious mascarpone cream, and coffee-soaked biscuits all rolled into one. The Tiramisu Crêpes Cake Roll Recipe is a beautiful way to impress your family and friends while treating yourself to a truly memorable dessert. Give it a try—you’ll find it’s as fun to make as it is delicious to eat!
Print
Tiramisu Crêpes Cake Roll Recipe
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Description
This Tiramisu Crêpes Cake Roll is a decadent dessert that combines delicate chocolate crêpes layered with rich mascarpone cream and coffee-soaked biscuits. Inspired by classic tiramisu, this elegant cake roll offers a harmonious blend of creamy, coffee, and cocoa flavors perfect for special occasions or an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Crêpe Batter
- 4 large eggs
- 420 ml cold whole milk
- 190 grams all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 25 grams unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons salted butter, melted
Mascarpone Cream Filling
- 2 egg yolks
- 60 grams granulated sugar
- 200 grams mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- 300 ml double cream or heavy cream
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional)
Additional
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
- Biscuits, for assembly (preferably ladyfingers or similar, soaked in coffee liqueur)
Instructions
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cornstarch, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt. Set aside to ensure they are well combined and free of lumps.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, cold whole milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, ensuring an even texture for the crêpe batter.
- Combine Batter: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir in the melted butter until the batter is smooth and fluid. Let the batter rest at room temperature for 20–30 minutes or refrigerate overnight to improve texture.
- Cook Crêpes: Heat a nonstick skillet or crêpe pan over medium heat and lightly grease if necessary. Pour about 60 ml of batter into the pan, swirling to coat the base evenly in a thin layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes until edges lift and underside is set, then flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute. Transfer cooked crêpes to a rack or plate and repeat with remaining batter.
- Prepare Egg Yolk Mixture: Place egg yolks and sugar in a heatproof bowl over a bain-marie (double boiler). Whisk constantly for 4–5 minutes until the mixture thickens, becomes pale, and sugar is fully dissolved. Remove from heat to cool slightly.
- Whip Cream and Mascarpone: Whisk together double cream and mascarpone until stiff peaks form and the mixture is homogeneous, creating a rich and silky cream base.
- Combine Cream and Egg Yolks: Gently fold the thickened egg yolk mixture into the whipped cream and mascarpone mixture. Add coffee liqueur if using, and fold gently until blended. Set the tiramisu cream aside.
- Assemble Layers: Arrange cooked crêpes overlapping on a lined sheet pan, minimizing gaps to create a uniform base for layering.
- Layer Cream and Biscuits: Spread a layer of tiramisu cream evenly over the crêpes, then add biscuits soaked in coffee liqueur on top of the cream layer.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering tiramisu cream and soaked biscuits until all the filling is used, building a multi-layered structure full of flavor.
- Roll the Cake: Carefully fold and roll the layered crêpes into a tight log, ensuring the filling stays contained within the layers.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake roll for at least 4 hours to allow it to set properly. Before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Resting the batter enhances the crêpes’ texture and makes them easier to cook.
- If coffee liqueur is not available or preferred, strong brewed coffee can be used to soak the biscuits.
- For best results, use room temperature mascarpone to avoid lumps in the cream filling.
- Use ladyfinger biscuits or similar light cookies that absorb the coffee liqueur well but remain structurally sound.
- The dessert benefits from chilling overnight for flavors to meld and the cake to set firmly.
- Ensure the crêpes are thin for delicate layering and a lighter texture.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the cake roll to maintain clean layers.
