Gluten-Free Baileys Tiramisu Delight

A creamy, boozy twist on a classic, made effortless and entirely gluten-free.

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Introduction

Imagine a dessert that melts in your mouth with every bite—soft layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, lush mascarpone cream, and a whisper of Baileys Irish Cream bringing it all together. That, my friend, is the magic of this Gluten-Free Baileys Tiramisu Delight. It’s comforting, it’s classy, and best of all—you don’t even need to turn on the oven.

This recipe is a personal favorite from my early days of experimenting with gluten-free baking for a dear friend who thought she’d never enjoy tiramisu again. One bite, and we were both hooked.

What makes it extra special? It’s no-bake, super simple to assemble, and has that just-right balance of creaminess, coffee, and the warm hug of Baileys. It’s a dessert that feels like a cozy celebration in every forkful.

So, grab your apron (and maybe a little taste of Baileys for yourself)—let’s whip up something unforgettable.

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📝 Recipe at a Glance

Feature	Details
Prep Time	25 minutes
Chill Time	6–8 hours (overnight recommended)
Total Time	About 30 minutes active, then chill
Skill Level	Easy
Servings	8–10 (easily halved or doubled)
Tools Needed	Hand mixer or stand mixer, 9×9 dish, spatula
Make-Ahead Friendly	YES – even better the next day!

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Ingredients List

For the Ladyfinger Soak

• 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
  Pro tip: espresso works beautifully for a bolder flavor.
• ¼ cup Baileys Irish Cream
  Can sub with coffee liqueur or more coffee for non-alcoholic version.
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
  Adds a soft sweetness to the soak.

For the Mascarpone Cream

• 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream
  Whips better if chilled with the bowl for 10 minutes beforehand.
• ½ cup powdered sugar
  Adjust to taste.
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese, room temp
  Don’t overmix or it can curdle—gentle is key!

🍪 For the Layers

• 1 pack gluten-free ladyfingers (about 20–24)
  Look for Schär or homemade versions. Short on those? Use GF sponge cake or crisp GF cookies like vanilla wafers.

For the Topping

• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
• Grated dark chocolate (optional but lovely for texture)
• Dark chocolate curls or shavings (optional garnish)

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Coffee-Soak Mixture

• In a shallow bowl, whisk together the coffee, Baileys, and maple syrup (if using).
• Set aside to cool completely—this helps keep the ladyfingers from getting soggy too quickly.

Step 2: Whip the Cream

• In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla on medium-high until soft peaks form.
• You want the cream to be fluffy but not too stiff—think cloud texture.

Step 3: Add Mascarpone

• Gently fold the mascarpone into the whipped cream.
• Use a spatula and fold slowly, maintaining that airy texture. It should be thick, smooth, and spreadable—like a soft mousse.

💡 Pro Tip: If it looks grainy, the mascarpone may have been too cold. Let it sit at room temp next time.

Step 4: Soak & Layer

• Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture—just 1–2 seconds per side.
• Arrange a single layer of soaked ladyfingers in your 9×9 dish.
• Spoon half the mascarpone mixture over the layer and smooth gently with a spatula.

Step 5: Repeat the Layers

• Add a second layer of soaked ladyfingers.
• Top with the remaining mascarpone cream and smooth the top.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap.

💤 Chill at least 6 hours, preferably overnight—this allows the flavors to marry and the texture to set into creamy perfection.

Step 6: Dust & Decorate

• Just before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder using a fine-mesh sieve.
• Garnish with grated dark chocolate or chocolate curls for an elegant finish.

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🥄 Serving & Storage Tips

Storage Method	Instructions
Fridge	Store covered for up to 4 days. Flavor deepens over time!
Freezer	Freeze tightly wrapped for up to 1 month. Thaw in fridge overnight.
Serving Tip	Use a warm knife to slice cleanly. Let sit at room temp 10 mins before serving.

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❓ Troubleshooting & FAQ

Problem	Solution
Filling too runny	Mascarpone was overmixed or cream under-whipped—beat until soft peaks only.
Ladyfingers turned mushy	Soaked too long—quick dunk (1–2 secs max) is key.
Grainy cream texture	Mascarpone too cold—bring to room temp before mixing.
No GF ladyfingers available	Use GF sponge cake slices or sturdy GF cookies instead.

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Variations

1. Mocha Tiramisu: Add 1 tbsp cocoa powder to the cream for a chocolate-coffee blend.
2. Berry Bliss: Layer in sliced strawberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
3. Vegan-Friendly: Use coconut whipped cream, dairy-free cream cheese, and gluten-free cookies soaked in coffee-almond liqueur.

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Final Note

If you’ve ever felt intimidated by tiramisu, I hope this version gives you the confidence to go for it—no oven, no gluten, no stress. Just a gorgeous, grown-up dessert that brings cozy joy to any table.

Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or sneaking a spoonful straight from the dish (we’ve all been there), this Gluten-Free Baileys Tiramisu Delight is bound to become a favorite.

Now tell me—who’s ready to create some magic?

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Let me know if you’d like a printable recipe card version or a Pinterest-ready image caption to go with this!