Gingerbread Tiramisu: 5 Irresistible Holiday Layers

When the holidays roll in and life becomes a delightful mix of shopping lists, school concerts, work deadlines, and that one aunt asking what you’re bringing to Christmas dinner, Gingerbread Tiramisu swoops in like the hero you didn’t know you needed. It’s comforting, festive, and—best of all—deceptively easy. We’re talking minimal stress with maximum “Wow, did you really make this?” energy.

And yes, I’m Aneta from Chicken Magic Recipes, but trust me—while chicken is my love language, this dessert deserves a front-row spot on your holiday table. It’s the kind of treat that fills your kitchen with warm spice, makes your heart feel three sizes bigger, and gives you that magical Christmas glow without even lighting a candle.

Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just need a sweet moment of calm for yourself (because the wrapping paper explosion is real), this Gingerbread Tiramisu is here to save your holiday season—one creamy, spiced bite at a time.

Why You’ll Love This Gingerbread Tiramisu

Let’s be honest—the holiday season can feel like a marathon wrapped in twinkly lights. Some days you’ve got the energy to bake homemade gingerbread cookies from scratch… and other days, you’re surviving on peppermint mochas and good intentions. That’s exactly where this Christmas hero dessert shines.

Here’s why this Gingerbread Tiramisu becomes a favorite:

  • It’s a no-bake dessert (your oven gets the day off—hallelujah).
  • Uses gingerbread cookies instead of ladyfingers for a warm, spiced twist.
  • Features festive eggnog inside a silky mascarpone filling.
  • Feels fancy but is totally doable—even if you’re juggling kids, work, and gift wrapping.
  • Comes together in around 20 minutes, then chills while you soak in some self-care or binge a holiday rom-com.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this dreamy, creamy, holiday dessert that tastes like Christmas gave you a hug:

  • 2 cups heavy cream – Whipped until stiff peaks form. Cold cream = fluffy magic.
  • 3 egg yolks – Rich and luxurious. Use pasteurized yolks if you prefer.
  • 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar
  • 2 ¼ cups mascarpone cheese – The classic tiramisu base. Cream cheese works but changes the flavor slightly.
  • ½ cup eggnog – For holiday flair! Swap with milk or cream if you’re not an eggnog fan.
  • 36–45 gingerbread cookies – Store-bought or homemade.
  • ½ cup hot coffee – Helps balance sweetness; use decaf for kids.
  • 1 teaspoon rum extract – Gives depth. Swap for real rum for an adult version.
  • Cocoa powder + crushed gingerbread cookies – For that picture-perfect finish.

How to Make Gingerbread Tiramisu

Let’s walk through the steps—no culinary degree required, promise!

1. Whip the cream

Grab your hand mixer and whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
(Think “clouds that can hold their shape.”)

Set aside.

2. Mix the egg yolks and sugar

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with powdered sugar until the mixture becomes pale and smooth. A little arm workout never hurt anyone!

3. Add the mascarpone

Scoop in the mascarpone and mix until creamy. No lumps allowed—this is holiday season, not mashed potato season.

4. Fold in the whipped cream

Now gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.
Soft, slow, loving folds.
Your filling should be smooth, light, and dreamy.

5. Prepare the dipping mixture

In a shallow dish, mix hot coffee, rum extract, and eggnog. This is your holiday “cookie bath.”

6. Dip those gingerbread cookies

One quick dip per cookie—don’t let them soak or you’ll end up with gingerbread mush.
Arrange them in a single layer in a 9×9 dish.

7. Add the filling

Spread a generous layer of the mascarpone mixture over the cookie base.

8. Repeat

Keep layering dipped cookies and filling until you reach the top. Expect about 4–5 layers depending on your cookie size.

9. Dust and decorate

A sprinkle of cocoa powder + crushed gingerbread cookies = the perfect holiday snowstorm.

10. Chill

Refrigerate for at least 1.5 hours, though overnight is best for maximum flavor magic.

Chef’s Tips to Make Your Christmas Gingerbread Tiramisu Extra Magical

I’ve made this many times—during chaotic family gatherings, cozy nights at home, you name it. Here are my best tips:

  • Cold cream is key. Warm cream won’t whip, and you’ll end up questioning your life choices.
  • Quick dips only! Gingerbread cookies love to soak up liquid faster than kids soak up holiday sugar.
  • Want a stronger holiday flavor? Use spiced eggnog or add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the filling.
  • Making it for a crowd? Double it and use a 9×13 dish. Your future self will thank you.

A little personal story: one year, I brought this dessert to a Christmas potluck, and I swear it disappeared faster than the kids’ candy canes. Even my picky niece—you know, the one who thinks air has too much texture—went back for seconds. That’s when I knew this recipe was staying in my holiday lineup forever.

Slice of Gingerbread Tiramisu showing creamy mascarpone layers and spiced gingerbread cookies on a white plate with a spoonful lifted.
This Gingerbread Tiramisu slice shows off its rich, fluffy layers—perfectly spiced, ultra-creamy, and absolutely irresistible with every spoonful.

FAQs About Christmas Gingerbread Tiramisu

Can I substitute the mascarpone?

Yes! Cream cheese works in a pinch. It creates a slightly tangier flavor, but it’s delicious in its own way.

What if I don’t like eggnog?

Totally fine. Replace the eggnog with heavy cream or whole milk. You’ll still get a fantastic Christmas Gingerbread Tiramisu without the eggnog taste.

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely—this dessert actually gets better as it chills.
Make it 24 hours ahead for the most flavorful layers.

Can I freeze Gingerbread Tiramisu?

Yes! Freeze tightly covered for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

What gingerbread cookies work best?

Firm, crunchy cookies—store-bought or homemade.
Soft gingerbread won’t hold up as well but can still be used if you dip quickly.

Bringing It All Together

The beauty of Gingerbread Tiramisu is that it brings joy without bringing stress. During a season filled with long to-do lists, this dessert gives you one thing you can count on: rich, creamy layers of holiday flavor that taste like comfort and celebration in every bite. Whether you’re whipping it up for a festive party or enjoying a quiet winter night at home, this sweet treat delivers that magical Christmas feeling we all crave.

Now grab those gingerbread cookies, take a deep breath, and let this recipe be the easiest part of your holiday season. You deserve it.

Keep the Holiday Treats Coming!

If this Gingerbread Tiramisu made your heart do a little happy dance, wait until you try some of my other festive favorites. These cozy Christmas goodies are perfect for snacking, gifting, or treating yourself after a long day of holiday chaos (we’ve all been there!).

  • Craving another easy, creamy, no-bake dessert? You’ll love this No-Bake Christmas Cookie Lush—it’s sweet, fluffy, and dangerously irresistible.
  • If you can’t get enough of those warm gingerbread spices, my Gingerbread Truffles deliver that same cozy flavor in the cutest little bites.
  • For something show-stopping and elegant, treat yourself to the Black Forest Trifle for Christmas—it’s chocolatey, fruity, and absolutely gorgeous on a holiday table.
  • And if you want a fun drink to sip while dessert chills in the fridge, whip up a mug of Grinch Hot Chocolate. It’s festive, colorful, and guaranteed to make the kids (and adults!) smile.

Happy holiday cooking—and even happier indulging!

Print
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Slice of Gingerbread Tiramisu showing creamy mascarpone layers and spiced gingerbread cookies on a white plate with a spoonful lifted.

Gingerbread Tiramisu


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  • Author: Aneta
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 810 servings 1x

Description

This Gingerbread Tiramisu is a festive, no-bake holiday dessert made with fluffy mascarpone cream, spiced gingerbread cookies, eggnog, and a rich dusting of cocoa. It’s the perfect easy Christmas treat that delivers cozy flavors in every creamy, irresistible layer.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups heavy cream, very cold

  • 3 egg yolks (or pasteurized yolks)

  • 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar

  • 2 ¼ cups mascarpone cheese

  • ½ cup eggnog

  • 3645 gingerbread cookies

  • ½ cup hot coffee (or decaf)

  • 1 teaspoon rum extract (or dark rum)

  • Cocoa powder, for dusting

  • Crushed gingerbread cookies, for topping


Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.

  2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and powdered sugar until smooth and pale.

  3. Add the mascarpone and mix until creamy with no lumps.

  4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.

  5. In a shallow dish, stir together the hot coffee, rum extract, and eggnog.

  6. Quickly dip each gingerbread cookie into the coffee mixture and arrange them in a single layer in a 9×9-inch dish.

  7. Spread a layer of the mascarpone filling over the cookies.

  8. Repeat layers of dipped cookies and filling (about 4–5 layers), ending with the cream on top.

  9. Dust with cocoa powder and sprinkle with crushed gingerbread cookies.

  10. Chill for at least 1.5 hours before serving.

Notes

  • For a kid-friendly version, use decaf coffee and rum extract.

  • Cream cheese may be substituted for mascarpone, but it will add a slight tang.

  • Dip cookies quickly—gingerbread softens fast.

 

  • Overnight chilling gives the best texture and flavor.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No Bake
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 28 g q
  • Sodium: 90 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 17 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 160 mg

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