Delightful Green Tea Tiramisu

This Green Tea Tiramisu is the most elegant and surprisingly delicious dessert I have ever made, and it’s the recipe that completely shattered my own culinary rules. It’s a story about how I, a die-hard traditionalist, was completely won over by a modern, vibrant twist on a sacred classic.

For as long as I can remember, I have been a Tiramisu purist. To me, it was a perfect, untouchable trinity of flavors. I believed that any attempt to change it was a gimmick, a sacrilege even. Then, a few years ago, I was at a trendy little cafe and saw “Matcha Tiramisu” on the menu. My first reaction was an internal eye-roll. Green tea? In a tiramisu? Why mess with perfection? I pictured a strange, grassy-tasting dessert that would be an insult to the original. But my curiosity got the better of me.

That first bite was a complete and utter revelation. The earthy, slightly bitter, and wonderfully aromatic notes of the matcha green tea cut through the rich, sweet mascarpone cream in the most incredible way. It was lighter, more fragrant, and incredibly sophisticated.

I went home completely obsessed, determined to create a Green Tea Tiramisu that could capture that same magic. The result is a recipe that honors the creamy texture of the classic while introducing a whole new world of flavor.

Green Tea Tiramisu

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Green Tea Tiramisu

This isn’t just a recipe. it’s a culinary experience that will surprise and delight you. Here’s why this Green Tea Tiramisu will become your new go-to impressive dessert.

  • It Has an Elegantly Balanced Flavor: This is the magic of the dish. The earthy, complex notes of the high-quality matcha are the perfect counterpoint to the rich, creamy sweetness of the mascarpone filling. The final taste of this Green Tea Tiramisu is sophisticated and never overly sweet.
  • The Perfect Light and Creamy Texture: This recipe delivers on the classic tiramisu promise. You get the light, airy, and luscious mascarpone cream layered with tender, matcha-soaked ladyfingers. It’s a melt-in-your-mouth texture that is absolutely heavenly.
  • It’s a Stunning Showstopper: This dessert is as beautiful as it is delicious. The delicate, pale green hue from the matcha makes this Green Tea Tiramisu a true work of art. It looks incredibly gourmet, but it’s a surprisingly easy, no-bake dessert to assemble.
Green Tea Tiramisu

The Health Benefits

It’s always a delight when a dessert this elegant has some secret wellness credentials. The star of this Green Tea Tiramisu is, of course, the matcha. High-quality matcha is an antioxidant powerhouse, celebrated for its health benefits. It also contains L-theanine, an amino acid known for promoting a state of calm, relaxed alertness—a perfect, gentle lift without the jitters of coffee. By making this dessert at home, you also have complete control over the quality of your ingredients, ensuring a more wholesome indulgence.

Perfect Occasions for This Recipe

  • An Elegant Dinner Party Dessert: This is its number one job. A slice of Green Tea Tiramisu is the perfect, sophisticated finale to a special meal. Because it needs to be made ahead of time, it’s a fantastic, stress-free option for any host.
  • A Unique Afternoon Treat: This tiramisu pairs beautifully with a cup of hot green tea or a simple black coffee. It’s a wonderfully light and satisfying pick-me-up for a special afternoon break.
  • When You Want to Impress Someone Special: This is the perfect dessert to make for a birthday or anniversary. It’s a guaranteed “wow” that proves you’re a thoughtful and adventurous cook.

This Green Tea Tiramisu is your key to a delicious, aromatic dessert that proves that sometimes, breaking the rules is the most delicious decision you can make.

Green Tea Tiramisu

Chef’s Notes: Green Tea Tiramisu

Cook yolks gently over a double boiler – This ensures a silky, safe custard base. Use an instant-read thermometer to hit 160°F without scrambling.

Cool custard quickly in an ice bath – Stops cooking instantly and preserves the airy texture. Don’t skip this step—it’s key to a smooth fold.

Soften mascarpone before mixing – Room temperature mascarpone blends easily and prevents lumps. Avoid overmixing to keep the cream light.

Whip cream to medium peaks – Peaks should hold but gently droop. This gives the tiramisu its signature cloud-like texture.

Dip ladyfingers briefly in matcha soak – Oversaturation leads to soggy layers. A quick 10-second dip per cookie is perfect.

Layer with precision – Smooth each mascarpone layer evenly for clean slices. Cover directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin.

Chill for at least 4 hours – Overnight is ideal. This allows flavors to meld and the structure to set for clean slicing.

Dust with matcha just before serving – Adds visual drama and a fresh burst of tea flavor. Optional: garnish with white chocolate or edible flowers.

Serve with berries or honey drizzle – These balance the earthy matcha and add brightness to each bite.

Store leftovers covered in the fridge – Keeps well for up to 3 days. Flavor deepens and texture improves over time.

Green Tea Tiramisu

0.0 from 0 votes
Course: DessertCuisine: Italian, JapaneseDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

50

minutes
Cooking time

10

minutes
Calories

480

kcal
Resting Time

4

hours 
Total time

5

hours 

Imagine velvety mascarpone clouds kissed by delicate matcha infusion! This Green Tea Tiramisu layers crisp ladyfingers steeped in vibrant green tea with light, airy whipped cream. Bursting with flavor and elegance, it’s a show-stopping dessert perfect for dinner parties or weekend brunch. Join the excitement of a modern twist on an Italian favorite—your guests will be begging for the recipe!

Ingredients

  • Cream Cloud Mixture
  • 2 large egg yolks at room temperature, gently warmed for better emulsification

  • 2 Tbsp granulated sugar reserve half for whipping

  • 1 Tbsp marsala wine or dark rum for depth

  • Soft Cheese Fold
  • 4 oz mascarpone left at room temperature until silky

  • ¾ cup chilled heavy whipping cream for lofty peaks

  • Matcha Soak Dusting
  • ¼ cup hot water around 175°F to bloom tea flavors

  • 2 tsp sifted matcha powder for the soak

  • 12 cookies crisp ladyfingers two neat layers

  • 1 Tbsp matcha powder for final decoration

  • Alternative Ingredients
  • Mascarpone: swap with equal parts cream cheese and heavy cream for budget-friendly option

  • Heavy whipping cream: replace with canned coconut cream to make it dairy-free and vegan

  • Egg yolks: use pasteurized egg substitute or silken tofu purée for egg allergies

  • Ladyfingers: substitute gluten-free sponge biscuits for a gluten-free dessert

  • Marsala wine: dark rum or brandy can stand in for similar warmth

  • Granulated sugar: use coconut sugar or maple syrup reduce liquid elsewhere

  • Matcha powder: try cocoa powder for a chocolate tiramisu variation

  • Water: replace with hot milk for a richer soak

Directions

  • Double Boiler Prep – Set a medium saucepan with 2 inches of water over medium heat until just simmering (about 5 minutes). Nestle a heatproof bowl on top, ensuring it doesn’t touch the water to prevent scorching. This gentle bath is key to cooking eggs evenly without scrambling.green tea tiramisu post
  • Egg Mixture Cooking – In the bowl, whisk together egg yolks, 1 Tbsp sugar, and marsala wine until smooth. Using a hand mixer on medium speed, beat constantly while cooking over the simmering water. Continue for about 10 minutes until the mixture hits 160°F and thickens into a pale, airy ribbon. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking (about 1 minute).green tea tiramisu post2
  • Mascarpone Incorporation – In a clean bowl, soften mascarpone with a silicone spatula. Discard any cooked bits clinging to the bowl sides. Gently fold cooled egg custard into mascarpone until uniform; overmixing will break the texture.green tea tiramisu post3
  • Whipped Cream Assembly – Beat cold heavy cream and remaining sugar in a chilled bowl with a hand mixer until medium peaks form (3–4 minutes). Peaks should hold but slightly droop at tips. Carefully fold whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, preserving as much air as possible.
  • Matcha Soak Preparation – Whisk matcha powder into hot water until lump-free. Pour into a shallow dish large enough to dip ladyfingers. Quickly submerge each cookie on both sides, avoiding oversaturation (10 seconds total per cookie).
  • Layering Chilling – Arrange 6 soaked ladyfingers in a single row in an 8×8-inch pan. Spread half the mascarpone cream on top, smoothing the surface. Repeat with remaining cookies and cream. Cover tightly with plastic wrap directly on the cream surface to prevent a skin. Chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for best texture. (Optional: garnish with white chocolate shavings before serving.)

Equipment

  • hand mixer
  • instant read thermometer
  • Mixing bowls
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • silicone spatula set
  • casserole dish

Notes

  • • Ensure yolks reach 160°F for safety and custard silkiness—use an instant-read thermometer.
    • Serve with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for contrast.
    • Add a hint of vanilla extract or lemon zest to the cream for extra aroma.
    • For a boozy kick, brush ladyfingers with extra marsala or sweet vermouth before layering.
    • Leftovers keep well, covered, in the fridge for up to 3 days; flavors deepen over time.

Nutrition Facts

  • Serving Size: 1g
  • Calories: 480kcal
  • Fat: 34g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 240mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Potassium: 82mg
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Protein: 11g
  • Vitamin A: 1667IU
  • Vitamin C: 0.25mg
  • Calcium: 96mg
  • Iron: 2.6mg

FAQs: Green Tea Tiramisu

how do I know when the custard is ready

It should reach 160°F and form pale, thick ribbons when lifted. Use a thermometer for accuracy.

can I make this ahead

Yes. Prepare up to 24 hours in advance. Chill overnight for best texture and flavor.

how long does this keep

Up to 3 days refrigerated. Cover tightly to prevent drying. Flavor intensifies with time.

can I freeze tiramisu

Not recommended. Freezing alters the texture of whipped cream and mascarpone. Best enjoyed fresh or chilled.

what sides pair best with this

Fresh berries, citrus segments, or a light green tea. For drinks, try jasmine tea or sparkling water with lemon.

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