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Protein Tiramisu

Protein Tiramisu - A Lighter Take on a Classic Dessert

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8–10 ladyfingers (savoiardi) or about 6 oz sponge fingers; use whole-grain or lower-sugar if preferred
  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled (decaf is fine)
  • 2–3 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional; sub vanilla extract if skipping alcohol)
  • 1 1/4 cups plain Greek yogurt (2% or 0%; 2% gives a silkier texture)
  • 1/2 cup light mascarpone (or well-blended cottage cheese for extra protein)
  • 1 scoop (25–30 g) vanilla or unflavored whey/casein blend (plant-based protein also works)
  • 2–4 tablespoons powdered sweetener (powdered sugar, maple syrup, or a zero-calorie sweetener; adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of fine sea salt
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
  • Dark chocolate shavings (optional)

Method
 

  1. Brew and cool the coffee: Make a strong cup of coffee or espresso. Let it cool to room temperature so it doesn’t turn the ladyfingers soggy too fast. Stir in the liqueur if using.
  2. Blend the creamy layer: In a bowl, whisk the Greek yogurt, light mascarpone, protein powder, sweetener, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth. If using cottage cheese, blend it first until silky, then whisk with the remaining ingredients. Taste and adjust sweetness.
  3. Prep your dish: Use an 8x8-inch pan, loaf pan, or four to six small jars. A clear dish shows the layers nicely, but anything works.
  4. Dip quickly, don’t soak: One by one, dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee for just 1–2 seconds per side. You want them moist, not collapsing. Lay them in a snug layer in your dish.
  5. First layer of cream: Spread about half of the yogurt-mascarpone mixture over the coffee-dipped ladyfingers. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  6. Repeat the layers: Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers, then top with the remaining cream. Smooth again.
  7. Chill to set: Cover and refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours, preferably overnight. This helps the flavors meld and the layers firm up.
  8. Finish with cocoa: Right before serving, sift a generous layer of unsweetened cocoa powder on top. Add dark chocolate shavings if you want a bit more flair.
  9. Slice and serve: Cut into squares or spoon into bowls. For jars, just dig in. Keep portions moderate; it’s satisfying.