Name: Cookie Tiramisu Cheesecake
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 6 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 cups chocolate or espresso-flavored cookies, crushed (for crust); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 3/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream or whipping cream; 1 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled; 1–2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional); 18–24 ladyfinger cookies or sandwich cookies; 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert brings together the best of three worlds: cookies, cheesecake, and tiramisu. You’ll love the velvety smooth filling balanced with bold coffee flavor and just the right touch of sweetness. It looks impressive, tastes luxurious, and is surprisingly easy to prepare—especially if you go the no-bake route. Whether you’re a cheesecake lover or a tiramisu fan, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chocolate or espresso-flavored cookies (for crust)
Butter (melted, for crust)
Mascarpone cheese
Cream cheese (softened)
Powdered sugar
Heavy cream or whipping cream
Vanilla extract
Instant espresso or strong brewed coffee
Ladyfinger cookies or additional sandwich cookies (for layers)
Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
Optional: coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)

Directions

Crush cookies into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter. Press into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust. Chill in the fridge while preparing the filling.
In a large bowl, beat the mascarpone and cream cheese until smooth.
Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture.
In a shallow bowl, mix espresso (and liqueur if using). Quickly dip ladyfingers or cookies into the coffee mixture—do not soak.
Layer the dipped cookies over the chilled crust. Spread half of the cheesecake mixture over the cookie layer.
Repeat with another layer of dipped cookies and the remaining cheesecake mixture.
Smooth the top, cover, and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to set.
Before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder.
Slice and serve chilled.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 10–12 people. Prep time is about 30 minutes, plus at least 6 hours (or overnight) for chilling and setting. No baking required.

Variations

Use chocolate chip or vanilla sandwich cookies instead of ladyfingers.
Add a swirl of Nutella or melted chocolate to the cheesecake filling.
Swap espresso for chai tea for a unique twist.
Use a brownie crust or sponge cake base for added richness.
Add a dusting of shaved chocolate or chocolate curls on top for decoration.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually and thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. This dessert is best served chilled and does not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use regular cream cheese only?

Yes, but combining it with mascarpone gives the most authentic tiramisu flavor and a silkier texture.

Can I make this cheesecake without espresso?

Yes, substitute with decaf coffee, hot chocolate, or chai for a caffeine-free version.

Do I need to bake the crust?

No, the crust sets perfectly in the fridge with melted butter, but you can bake it for 8 minutes at 350°F (175°C) if you prefer a firmer base.

Can I use store-bought cookies for the layers?

Absolutely. Ladyfingers, sandwich cookies, or even chocolate wafer cookies work well.

Is this cheesecake overly sweet?

Not at all. The mascarpone and coffee balance the sweetness for a rich yet refined flavor.

How long should it chill before serving?

At least 6 hours, but overnight is best for a firm and fully set cheesecake.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it’s a great make-ahead dessert. Prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

You can use a deep cake pan or a pie dish, but lining it with parchment will help when removing slices.

Can I use whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?

Yes, for convenience you can use whipped topping, but homemade whipped cream offers a fresher taste and better texture.

Conclusion

Cookie Tiramisu Cheesecake is a dreamy fusion dessert that blends the creamy elegance of cheesecake with the classic flavor of tiramisu and the satisfying crunch of cookies. It’s rich, flavorful, and sure to impress any crowd. Whether for a dinner party, holiday, or special celebration, this no-bake dessert is a guaranteed hit.