Name: Tiramisu Balls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 Savoiardi lady fingers; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1/3 cup (3oz / 85g) mascarpone cheese, cold; 2 to 4 tablespoons strongly brewed coffee, room temperature or cold; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (for rolling)

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Introduction

Tiramisu Balls are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, easy to make and perfect for sharing. These bite-sized treats combine creamy mascarpone, coffee-soaked lady fingers, and a dusting of cocoa powder for a rich, indulgent flavor in every bite.

A close-up view of a pyramid stack of round chocolate truffles coated in dark cocoa powder, each truffle has a rough, powdery texture, and the top truffle is bitten to show its light brown, grainy inside with a somewhat crumbly texture. They sit on a white plate with some cocoa powder scattered around its base, all placed on a white marbled textured surface, with a dark, blurred background creating strong contrast. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 Savoiardi lady fingers*
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/3 cup (3oz / 85g) mascarpone cheese, cold
2 to 4 tablespoons strongly brewed coffee, room temperature or cold
2 tablespoons cocoa powder (for rolling)**

Instructions

Step 1: Crush the lady fingers into fine crumbs using a food processor by pulsing on and off until very fine, or place them in a large plastic bag and break them down with a rolling pin until finely crushed.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the lady finger crumbs, powdered sugar, mascarpone cheese, and 2 tablespoons of coffee.
Step 3: Mix everything well until the mixture sticks together when pinched. If it’s too dry, add more coffee gradually until it holds together. If too soft, chill the mixture in the fridge for 30 to 60 minutes until firm enough to handle.
Step 4: Scoop out about 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls. Using a small cookie scoop can make this easier.
Step 5: Place the cocoa powder in a small bowl or plate and roll each ball in it to coat thoroughly. Note that cocoa powder adds a slight bitterness; see tips below for alternative coatings.
Step 6: Serve immediately or store in the fridge until ready to enjoy.

Tips & Variations

If you prefer a sweeter coating, try rolling the tiramisu balls in finely grated chocolate or powdered sugar instead of cocoa powder.
For a flavored twist, add a teaspoon of coffee liqueur or vanilla extract to the mixture.
Use freshly brewed coffee cooled to room temperature to enhance the coffee flavor without making the mixture too wet.

Storage

Store tiramisu balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. They are best enjoyed chilled. To serve, allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes if you prefer a softer texture. Avoid freezing as it may affect the creamy texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a single round chocolate truffle covered in a fine layer of dark brown cocoa powder, sitting in the middle of a small mound of loose cocoa powder. The mound of cocoa powder forms a shallow, uneven ring around the truffle, with a rough, crumbly texture and different-sized clumps. The surface beneath is a white marbled texture, which contrasts with the rich brown tones of the cocoa powder and chocolate truffle. The lighting highlights the slightly rough, velvety surface of the truffle and the powdery texture around it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make tiramisu balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and form the balls a day ahead. Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container and roll in cocoa powder just before serving for the freshest taste.

Can I use a substitute for mascarpone cheese?

If mascarpone is unavailable, a mixture of cream cheese and heavy cream can be used as a substitute, though the flavor and texture will be slightly different.