Name: Easy Masala Chai Tiramisu
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 3 cups heavy cream; 16 ounces mascarpone cheese; 3/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom; Pinch of salt; 2 1/2 cups water; 1 large cinnamon stick; 5 cloves; 1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns; 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom; 1 tablespoon brown sugar or jaggery; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon rose water; 1 tablespoon heavy cream; 2 black tea bags; 30 ladyfingers; 1/4 cup sweetened cocoa powder or chai spice mix (for dusting)

Why You’ll Love Easy Masala Chai Tiramisu Recipe

This dessert offers the perfect balance of creamy, spiced, and lightly sweet flavors. The chai infusion adds depth and warmth with notes of cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, while the mascarpone cream layer keeps everything light and luscious.

You’ll love that it’s completely no-bake, making it ideal for entertaining without turning on the oven. It’s also egg-free, which makes it approachable and convenient. Whether you’re preparing it for a festive celebration, a dinner party, or a weekend treat, this tiramisu feels elegant yet effortless.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cream Layer:
3 cups heavy cream
16 ounces mascarpone cheese
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
Pinch of salt

Chai Dip:
2 1/2 cups water
1 large cinnamon stick
5 cloves
1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1 tablespoon brown sugar or jaggery
1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
1 teaspoon rose water
1 tablespoon heavy cream
2 black tea bags

Other:
30 ladyfingers
1/4 cup sweetened cocoa powder or a chai spice mix for dusting

Directions

Prepare the chai concentrate by adding water, cinnamon stick, cloves, peppercorns, and ground cardamom to a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 8–10 minutes to allow the spices to infuse.
Add the tea bags and simmer for another 2–3 minutes until strong and aromatic. Remove from heat and strain the mixture into a bowl. Stir in the brown sugar, vanilla, rose water, and heavy cream. Allow the chai mixture to cool completely.
In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt until soft peaks form.
Add the mascarpone cheese and continue beating until smooth, thick, and creamy. Avoid overmixing to maintain a light texture.
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled chai mixture. Dip just long enough to soak lightly without becoming soggy.
Arrange a single layer of soaked ladyfingers in a serving dish.
Spread half of the cream mixture evenly over the ladyfingers.
Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and finish with the remaining cream mixture.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld.
Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder or a chai spice blend.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 to 16 servings, depending on portion size.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 4 to 12 hours
Total time: About 4 1/2 to 12 1/2 hours including chilling

Variations

For a richer flavor, add a splash of dark rum or coffee liqueur to the chai soak.

If mascarpone is unavailable, substitute with full-fat cream cheese for a slightly tangier filling.

Add a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg or ground ginger to the cream layer for additional warmth.

For individual servings, assemble the tiramisu in small glasses or dessert cups.

You can also replace ladyfingers with sponge cake slices or tea rusks for a slightly different texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store the tiramisu covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen and improve after the first day.

To freeze, wrap the dish well and freeze for up to 2 months without the cocoa topping. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and dust with cocoa powder just before serving.

This dessert does not require reheating and is best served chilled.

FAQs

Can I make Masala Chai Tiramisu ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually best when made a day in advance. The extra chilling time allows the flavors to develop and the layers to firm up properly.

How do I prevent soggy ladyfingers?

Dip them quickly into the chai mixture—just a brief dunk on each side. Over-soaking will cause them to become too soft.

Can I use store-bought chai instead of making it from scratch?

Yes, but make sure it is strong and well-spiced so the flavor stands out in the final dessert.

Is this tiramisu very sweet?

It has a balanced sweetness. The spices help offset the sugar, creating a warm and flavorful dessert without being overly sugary.

Can I make this dessert without rose water?

Absolutely. The rose water adds a subtle floral note, but it can be omitted if preferred.

What type of tea works best?

Strong black tea or masala chai tea bags work best to create a bold, aromatic soak.

Can I use low-fat ingredients?

Full-fat cream and mascarpone provide the best texture and richness. Lower-fat substitutes may result in a softer consistency.

How long does it need to chill?

At least 4 hours is necessary, but overnight chilling gives the best texture and flavor.

Can I assemble this in a different dish?

Yes, you can use a rectangular baking dish, square pan, or individual cups depending on how you’d like to serve it.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

Easy Masala Chai Tiramisu is a beautiful fusion dessert that blends creamy indulgence with warm, aromatic spices. Its no-bake simplicity and egg-free filling make it practical, while the unique chai flavor makes it memorable. Whether served at a celebration or enjoyed as a comforting treat, this dessert is sure to impress with every spiced, creamy bite.