As I prepped for a cozy evening with friends, a craving for something indulgent streaked through my mind—a classic dessert brought into a modern twist. Enter these delightful Tiramisu Bars, a no-bake wonder that layers velvety cream, coffee-infused chocolate, and a hint of sweetness into a delectable treat. Not only are they incredibly quick to whip up, but they also promise to be a showstopper at any gathering, melding rich flavors with an easy-to-eat format. With each bite, you’ll experience the comforting essence of traditional tiramisu, without the fuss. Curious to see how you can reimagine this Italian classic in your own kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why will you adore Tiramisu Bars?

Irresistible Flavor: Each bite offers an exquisite blend of rich coffee, chocolate, and creamy cheese that transports you straight to a quaint Italian café.

No-Bake Convenience: With no baking required, whip these up in just a few minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Your guests will be raving about these bars—ideal for dinner parties or family get-togethers.

Versatile Variations: Want to experiment? Try adding a fruity twist with a berry compote or use white chocolate for a lighter flavor. The possibilities are endless!

Easy Serving: Cut into convenient bars for stress-free serving and no fuss at the table. Perfectly portioned for guests or midnight cravings!

Get ready to impress by making these Tiramisu Bars your new go-to dessert, and consider pairing them with a refreshing side like Lime Pie Bars for an unforgettable combination!

Tiramisu Custard Bars Ingredients

• Here’s what you need for these delightful treats!

For the Base

Gold Medal™ All-Purpose Flour – 3/4 cup: Provides structure to the Tiramisu Custard Bars; substitute with a gluten-free baking mix for gluten-free options.
Butter or Margarine, softened – 1/2 cup: Adds richness and moisture; can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Powdered Sugar – 1/4 cup: Sweetens the filling and helps with texture; use granulated sugar if powdered is unavailable.
Granulated Sugar – 1 cup: Sweetens both the base and filling; no substitution necessary.

For the Filling

Whipping Cream – 3/4 cup + 1/4 cup: Adds creaminess and volume; heavy cream provides the best results.
Instant Coffee Granules – 1 tablespoon: Essential for that Tiramisu flavor; use espresso powder for a stronger essence.
Vanilla Extract – 1/2 teaspoon: Enhances flavor with warmth; no substitutions needed.
Eggs – 2: Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; flax eggs can be a substitute for vegans.
Cream Cheese, softened – 1 package (3 oz): Creates a creamy texture in the filling; substitute with vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version.

For the Garnish

Semisweet Baking Chocolate, grated – 3 oz: Adds a delightful chocolate element; dark chocolate can enhance the richness.
Chocolate Curls (optional): For an elegant garnish; grated chocolate is a simple alternative.

Now that you’re equipped with the essential ingredients, get ready to indulge in these Tiramisu Custard Bars that your friends and family won’t be able to resist!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tiramisu Custard Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Base
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and both granulated and powdered sugar until creamy and light, about 3-4 minutes. Gradually add in the all-purpose flour and 1/4 cup of whipping cream, mixing until a smooth, thick base forms. Spread this mixture evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Filling
In a separate bowl, whip 3/4 cup of whipping cream until soft peaks form, taking care not to overwhip. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, then mix in the instant coffee granules, vanilla extract, and eggs until well combined. Gently fold the whipped cream into this coffee-cream mixture, ensuring it remains airy and light.

Step 3: Combine Layers
Once your base is set in the baking dish, pour the creamy coffee filling over it, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a smooth layer. Be sure to cover the entire base, allowing the filling to settle naturally into a cohesive layer that captures the essence of these Tiramisu Custard Bars.

Step 4: Chill
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the layers to set properly. This chilling time is crucial for the bars to firm up and integrate the delightful flavors of coffee and cream into a delicious, cohesive dessert.

Step 5: Serve
Once chilled and firm, remove the Tiramisu Custard Bars from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, cut them into squares or rectangles for easy serving. Optionally, garnish the top with chocolate curls or grated semisweet chocolate for an elegant finish before serving to friends and family.

How to Store and Freeze Tiramisu Custard Bars

Fridge: Keep the Tiramisu Custard Bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the creamy texture and flavors.

Freezer: Slice the bars and freeze them in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Wrapping: If using a baking dish, cover it with plastic wrap or foil. Ensure it’s airtight to prevent any odors from affecting the dessert.

Reheating: Serve chilled straight from the fridge for the best flavor and texture experience—no reheating necessary!

Tiramisu Custard Bars Variations

Feel free to get creative and adapt this delightful dessert to your tastes and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix for a deliciously adaptable option that everyone can enjoy.
Dairy-Free: Replace cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use coconut oil instead of butter for a fully dairy-free treat. Plant-based ingredients never tasted so good!
Flavor Twist: Experiment with a mocha flavor by adding cocoa powder or even espresso powder instead of instant coffee. The rich chocolatey taste will awaken your senses!
Fruity Layer: Add a layer of mixed berries or a berry compote atop the cream filling, bringing a fresh pop of flavor that complements the richness of the bars beautifully.
Citrus Zing: Incorporate a touch of orange or lemon zest in the filling for a refreshing twist that elevates these bars to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Nutty Crunch: Fold in crushed nuts, like hazelnuts or almonds, into the filling for added texture and a delightful crunch that plays well with the creamy layers.
Less Sweet: If you prefer a less sweet treat, reduce the sugar in both the filling and the base. The coffee flavor will shine through effortlessly!
Decadent Chocolate: Swap semisweet baking chocolate for dark chocolate to deepen the flavor and create a richer experience. It’s a chocolate lover’s dream!

To complete your dessert spread, consider pairing these Tiramisu Bars with Strawberry Shortcake Bars for a contrast of flavors that will delight your guests!

Make Ahead Options

These Tiramisu Custard Bars are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeks! You can prepare the base and filling up to 24 hours in advance. First, make the base by combining the softened butter, sugars, flour, and cream, then refrigerate it for easy layering later. After preparing the coffee-infused filling, layer it over the chilled base and cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. To maintain freshness, you can refrigerate the assembled bars for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply cut into bars and garnish with chocolate curls right before presenting them to your guests—ensuring they taste just as delicious as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for Tiramisu Custard Bars

Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy blending, resulting in a smoother filling for your Tiramisu Custard Bars.
Gentle Folding: Carefully fold in the whipped cream to maintain its light and airy texture; overmixing can lead to a denser filling.
Coffee Flavor Boost: For a stronger coffee flavor, steep the instant coffee granules in a little warm water before adding to the filling, enhancing the overall taste.
Sharp Knife for Cutting: Use a sharp knife to slice the bars once set; this ensures clean edges and prevents the layers from separating.
Chill Time Matters: Be patient and allow the bars to chill for at least 2 hours—this is crucial for the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up properly.

What to Serve with Tiramisu Custard Bars?

Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these luscious bars with delightful accompaniments that enhance their rich flavors.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing contrast to the creamy bars, brightening up each bite with a burst of flavor.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the bars for an indulgent touch that deepens the dessert experience with extra richness.
Espresso or Coffee: A cup of aromatic espresso perfectly complements the coffee notes in the bars, making for a classic Italian pairing that warms the soul.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that harmonizes beautifully with the rich creaminess of the Tiramisu Bars.
Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti enhances the experience with its nutty texture and pairs harmoniously with the coffee flavor.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy and cold accompaniment that contrasts the bars’ chilled texture, making each bite a delightful experience.
Spiced Chai Tea: Try pairing these bars with a warm cup of spiced chai tea; the aromatic spices will elevate the dessert while adding warmth and comfort.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: For an elegant touch, serve chocolate-dipped strawberries alongside; they offer a delightful mix of sweet fruit and rich chocolate that complements the dessert perfectly.

Get ready to impress your friends and family with delicious pairings that make your Tiramisu Custard Bars the star of the evening!

Tiramisu Custard Bars Recipe FAQs

What type of coffee granules should I use?
Absolutely! Instant coffee granules are essential for that classic Tiramisu flavor. However, if you’re looking for a bolder coffee essence, I recommend using espresso powder instead for a more robust taste.

How long can I store Tiramisu Custard Bars in the fridge?
You can keep these delightful Tiramisu Custard Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This storage method helps maintain their creamy texture and flavors beautifully.

Can I freeze Tiramisu Custard Bars?
Yes, you can! Slice the Tiramisu Custard Bars and place them in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. This way, they’ll taste just as delicious!

What to do if my filling is too runny?
If your filling seems too runny, it might be due to overwhipping the cream or not chilling it long enough. Make sure to whip the cream until just soft peaks form. If the bars are still soft after chilling, try refrigerating them longer—at least 4 hours may help the layers set up better.

Can I make Tiramisu Custard Bars gluten-free?
Yes! To make a gluten-free version, simply substitute the Gold Medal™ All-Purpose Flour with a gluten-free baking mix. Just ensure that all other ingredients, especially the cream cheese and any add-ins, are also certified gluten-free.

Are Tiramisu Custard Bars safe for people with egg allergies?
For those avoiding eggs, you can substitute the 2 eggs in the filling with flax eggs. To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, letting it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens. This will help bind the ingredients effectively!