Creamy Tiramisu Cheesecake

Indulge in the best of both worlds with this Decadent Tiramisu Cheesecake, blending the classic flavors of tiramisu with the smoothness of cheesecake. The creamy filling sits atop a coffee-flavored crust, complemented by layers of espresso-dipped ladyfingers for that signature tiramisu taste. Finished with a light sprinkle of cocoa powder, this luxurious dessert is an exquisite treat that will elevate any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 30 Oreo cookies (crumbs)
• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon espresso powder

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 20.1 oz cream cheese, room temperature, full fat
• 10.5 oz mascarpone cheese, room temperature
• 1¼ cup heavy cream, cold
• 1⅓ cup powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons instant vanilla pudding mix
• ⅓ cup sour cream

For Assembly:

• 10 ladyfingers
• 1–2 tablespoons cocoa powder (for dusting)
• 1 cup brewed espresso, cooled
• 1 tablespoon Kahlua (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and line it with parchment paper if desired.
2. Make the Crust Mixture: In a bowl, combine the Oreo crumbs, melted butter, and espresso powder. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
3. Form the Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat the Cream Cheese and Mascarpone: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and mascarpone together until smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes.
2. Add Sweeteners and Flavorings: Mix in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and sour cream until fully combined.
3. Incorporate Heavy Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with the instant vanilla pudding mix until soft peaks form.

Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Layer the Ladyfingers: Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the cooled espresso (mixed with Kahlua, if using). Arrange them in a single layer over the cooled crust.
2. Add the Cheesecake Filling: Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the ladyfingers, spreading it evenly. Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers, then top with the remaining cheesecake filling. Smooth the surface with a spatula.

Step 4: Chill the Cheesecake

1. Chill: Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 6 hours, or overnight, to ensure it sets completely.

Step 5: Decorate and Serve

1. Sprinkle with Cocoa: Just before serving, sift a generous layer of cocoa powder over the top of the cheesecake using a fine mesh strainer.
2. Slice and Serve: Use a warm knife for clean slices, and serve chilled.

Conclusion

This Creamy Tiramisu Cheesecake is a fusion of two classic desserts, delivering bold espresso flavors and a silky cheesecake texture. The Oreo crust, layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and mascarpone-rich filling create a truly luxurious treat. Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or as a special indulgence, this cheesecake will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for a decadent dessert.