Tiramisu is a dessert loved for its layers of creamy mascarpone, espresso-soaked sponge fingers, and cocoa. While it might seem like a treat reserved for special occasions, it’s surprisingly simple to make at home—and even better, gluten free.
You might be wondering, ‘Can you really make a gluten free tiramisu just as delicious as the original?’ Absolutely!
For those on a gluten free diet, the store-bought sponge fingers (also known as ladyfingers or savoiardi) that are needed for a classic tiramisu are often not an option. This recipe solves that with homemade gluten free sponge fingers. They’re easier to make than you might think and use basic gluten free ingredients you likely already have, creating the perfect texture to soak up that coffee just right.
Combined with the creamy mascarpone, this gluten free tiramisu delivers the same balance of flavours and satisfying bite you know and love.
So, if you’re searching for an easy, decadent gluten free dessert or the ultimate gluten free tiramisu recipe for a holiday gathering, a dinner party with friends, or even a midweek treat, this is the one to try.
Gluten Free Sponge Fingers
Ingredients:
- 2 Egg Yolks
- 3 Egg Whites
- 120g Granulated Sugar
- 140g Gluten Free Plain Flour
- 10g Cornflour
- 1 Tsp Baking Powder
Method:
- Pre-heat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (fan-forced) and line two baking trays with baking paper.
- In a bowl of a standstill mixer with a whisk attachment, whip 2 egg yolks and 60g of the granulated sugar until increased in volume, pale and fluffy.
- In a separate bowl of a standstill mixer with a whisk attachment, whip 3 egg whites and the remaining 60g of the granulated sugar until you get a stiff-peak.
- Fold the egg yolks into the egg whites gently until just combined.
- Sift in the gluten free flour, cornflour and baking powder into the egg mixture. Fold everything together gently (do not lose too much air).
- Transfer the batter into a piping bag with a large round nozzle and pipe about 10 cm long lines of batter onto the lined baking trays.
- Place into the oven for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 150 degrees Celsius and bake for a further 12 – 15 minutes.
- Cool on a cooling rack and set aside.
Gluten Free Tiramisu
Total preparation and cook time: 1 hour
Serves: 12
Ingredients:
- 3 Eggs
- 3 Tbsp Caster Sugar
- 1 Tsp Vanilla Essence
- 250g Mascarpone Cheese
- Cocoa Powder
- 1 Cup Expresso Coffee Preferably (or Instant Coffee)
- 20 Sponge Fingers
Optional:
- 1 Tsp Galiano
- 1 Tsp Cointreau Liquor
Method
- In a bowl of a standstill mixer with a whisk attachment, on a high speed, beat together the eggs and caster sugar until thick and creamy. Alternatively, you can use a handheld mixer.
- Add in the vanilla essence and mascarpone cheese and beat well. Set aside
- In a small bowl, add the coffee (if you are adding the alcohol, mix the Galiano and Cointreau into the coffee as well).
- One by one, dip the sponge fingers into the coffee on each side for a couple of seconds (caution: do not let them soak enough that they fall apart). Then place the sponge fingers into a dish closely together.
- In the dish, add a layer of the cream mixture, then sprinkle cocoa powder on top of the cream layer. Repeat this process with the coffee dipping process.
- Finish off with a layer of cocoa powder and store in the fridge overnight to set.
- Enjoy! Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Nicole Marie | Accredited Practising Dietitian
Nicole Marie is an expert dietitian specialising in the gluten free diet and a devoted coach committed to supporting clients towards a healthier, happier lifestyle.
