Light Tiramisu is a healthier, no-bake version of the beloved Italian dessert. This guilt-free treat features layers of creamy Greek yogurt, rich cocoa sauce, and coffee-soaked rusks, making it perfect for those who want all the flavor of traditional tiramisu with a lighter touch. Ideal for dinner parties, family gatherings, or a refreshing indulgence on warm days, this recipe is quick to prepare and even easier to enjoy.
Light Tiramisu is a modern take on the famous Italian tiramisu, a layered dessert that originated in Italy’s Veneto region. Traditionally made with mascarpone cheese, ladyfingers, coffee, and cocoa, tiramisu has long been considered a classic comfort food. This light version swaps mascarpone for protein-rich Greek yogurt and uses rusks or light biscuits instead of ladyfingers. The result? A refreshingly creamy, guilt-free dessert that still delivers all the flavors you love.
There are so many reasons to adore this Light Tiramisu:
Absolutely. Ladyfingers (savoiardi) are the traditional choice for tiramisu and work perfectly in this recipe.
Strong, cooled espresso or dark-brewed coffee is ideal. The bolder the coffee, the more authentic the flavor.
Yes! Greek yogurt gives the dessert a creamy texture while keeping it lighter and higher in protein than traditional mascarpone.
You can easily swap Greek yogurt for a thick dairy-free alternative such as coconut or almond yogurt.
Chill the dessert for at least 2 hours. For best results and flavor, refrigerate it overnight.
To store Light Tiramisu, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly and enhance the flavor.
Light Tiramisu can be frozen:
Begin by preparing the coconut cream. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with the shredded coconut. Stir until the mixture is smooth and the coconut is evenly distributed throughout. This will add a subtle, nutty texture and flavor to your cream.
Begin by preparing the coconut cream. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with the shredded coconut. Stir until the mixture is smooth and the coconut is evenly distributed throughout. This will add a subtle, nutty texture and flavor to your cream.
Next, make the cocoa sauce.
Next, make the cocoa sauce.
Place the cocoa powder in a small bowl. Slowly add water, a little at a time, while stirring constantly. This technique helps you achieve a smooth, glossy consistency without lumps. Once the sauce is just right, stir in the honey. The sweetness of the honey balances the deep richness of the cocoa perfectly. Set the sauce aside for now.
Place the cocoa powder in a small bowl. Slowly add water, a little at a time, while stirring constantly. This technique helps you achieve a smooth, glossy consistency without lumps. Once the sauce is just right, stir in the honey. The sweetness of the honey balances the deep richness of the cocoa perfectly. Set the sauce aside for now.
Now it is time to assemble your tiramisu. Brew a strong cup of coffee and let it cool slightly. Take your rusks or ladyfingers and briefly dip them into the coffee. Be careful not to soak them for too long, as you want them to hold their shape while absorbing that delicious coffee flavor. Break them into smaller pieces and arrange a layer of these at the bottom of your serving glasses or dish.
Spoon a generous layer of the coconut yogurt cream over the soaked rusks. Use the back of your spoon to gently smooth it out.
Now it is time to assemble your tiramisu. Brew a strong cup of coffee and let it cool slightly. Take your rusks or ladyfingers and briefly dip them into the coffee. Be careful not to soak them for too long, as you want them to hold their shape while absorbing that delicious coffee flavor. Break them into smaller pieces and arrange a layer of these at the bottom of your serving glasses or dish.
Continue layering. Add another layer of coffee-dipped rusks, followed by more of the coconut yogurt cream. Keep building the layers until you reach the top of your glass or dish. To finish, pour the cocoa sauce generously over the final layer of yogurt, creating a rich, tempting topping.
Place your tiramisu in the refrigerator to chill for at least two hours. For the best flavor and texture, letting it rest overnight is ideal. This gives the flavors time to blend beautifully and allows the dessert to set to a perfect consistency.
When you are ready to serve, simply remove the tiramisu from the fridge and enjoy. Each spoonful will reward you with creamy layers, bold coffee notes, and a satisfying hint of cocoa. It is a light, elegant dessert that is sure to impress.