If you’re a tea lover like me, this Earl Grey Tiramisu is about to become your new favorite dessert.
It’s floral, aromatic, and deeply indulgent—with layers of soft ladyfingers soaked in a bold Earl Grey tea concentrate and topped with the dreamiest mascarpone whipped cream.
This modern twist on a classic Italian dessert is light, luxurious, and perfect for tea parties, holidays, or anytime you want to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
A sophisticated spin on classic tiramisu
No coffee or alcohol—just beautiful tea flavor
Made with real Earl Grey tea concentrate
Lush layers of mascarpone and whipped cream
Perfect make-ahead dessert for entertaining
Ingredient Highlights
Earl Grey Tea Concentrate: The soul of this dessert.
You’ll steep a strong brew using either loose leaf tea or tea bags, then sweeten and enhance it with vanilla and a pinch of salt.
Mascarpone Whipped Cream: A combination of mascarpone, heavy cream, egg yolks, and sugar creates a cloud-like filling that’s silky yet rich.
Ladyfingers: The base of each layer.
They soak up the tea and add the perfect sponge-like texture.
Vanilla Paste or Extract: Vanilla deepens the floral notes of the Earl Grey and rounds out the flavor beautifully.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Loose leaf tea gives a more intense flavor than bags.
Use 3 tablespoons for the richest brew.
Be sure to cool the tea concentrate slightly before dipping the ladyfingers.
Use pasteurized egg yolks for food safety and a luscious mousse texture.
Don’t over-whip the mascarpone—it blends in best when soft and creamy.
How to Make Earl Grey Tiramisu
Step 1: Make the Earl Grey Tea Concentrate
Bring water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and add Earl Grey tea.
Steep for 10–15 minutes until it’s strong and slightly bitter.
Strain the tea over a bowl of sugar and stir in vanilla paste and a pinch of salt. Let cool.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a stand mixer, beat the cold heavy cream until soft peaks form.
Add the mascarpone and vanilla and mix gently until smooth.
Transfer to a separate bowl.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Base
Whisk the egg yolks, sugar, and salt on high speed until pale, thick, and doubled in volume—about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Fold in the Whipped Cream
Add half the mascarpone mixture into the egg yolks and fold gently.
Repeat with the second half, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Layers
Dip each ladyfinger into the Earl Grey concentrate and place in a single layer in an 8-inch square pan.
Spread half of the mascarpone whipped cream on top.
Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and the rest of the cream.
Step 6: Chill
Cover the tiramisu loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 7: Serve
Slice and serve chilled. You can garnish with edible flowers, extra Earl Grey dust, or cocoa powder if desired.
What to Serve It With
A glass of sparkling wine or chilled Prosecco
Fresh berries on the side for a fruity contrast
A pot of Earl Grey tea for a beautiful pairing
Variations and Substitutions
Try lavender tea for a floral twist
Swap mascarpone with whipped ricotta for a lighter texture
Use decaf Earl Grey for an evening-friendly version
Add a splash of orange liqueur to the tea for citrus notes
Storage Tips
Keep your tiramisu tightly covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
It’s best after resting overnight, as the flavors meld beautifully.
Do not freeze—dairy and tea texture may separate.
FAQs
Can I make this tiramisu ahead of time?
Yes! This dessert needs to chill for at least 8 hours, so it’s perfect to make the day before.
Is it safe to eat raw egg yolks?
Use pasteurized egg yolks to eliminate any risk. You’ll still get that classic richness.
Can I use store-bought tea concentrate?
You can, but making it from scratch gives the most intense, custom flavor.
What if I don’t have mascarpone?
Cream cheese is a backup option, but mascarpone gives the true tiramisu texture.
Do I need to sweeten the tea concentrate?
Yes—sugar balances the tannins of the strong brew and adds needed sweetness.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Just use certified gluten-free ladyfingers or sponge cake.
How many servings does this make?
An 8-inch square pan yields about 9 servings, depending on how you slice it.
Final Thoughts
This Earl Grey Tiramisu is everything I love about dessert—familiar yet elevated, delicate yet bold, and easy enough for a weekend but special enough for a celebration.
The tea adds a fragrant, cozy twist that makes every bite feel like a warm hug in elegant form.

Elegant Earl Grey Tiramisu
Ingredients
For the Tea Concentrate:
- 1½ cups water
- 3 tbsp loose leaf Earl Grey tea or 9 bags
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla paste or extract
- Pinch kosher salt
For the Mascarpone Whipped Cream:
- 1¼ cups cold heavy cream
- 8 oz mascarpone cold
- 1 tbsp vanilla paste or extract
- 4 large pasteurized egg yolks
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- Pinch kosher salt
Other:
- Ladyfingers
- Optional: edible flowers or dusted tea leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Steep tea in boiling water 10–15 min.
- Strain over sugar, stir in vanilla and salt. Cool.
- Whip cream to soft peaks. A
- dd mascarpone and vanilla, mix until smooth.
- Beat egg yolks, sugar, and salt until fluffy. Fold in whipped mascarpone cream.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://p4pd.org/elegant-earl-grey-tiramisu/
Notes
- Tea Tip: Stronger tea yields more flavor—opt for loose leaf if possible for a bolder profile.
- Chilling Time: Don’t skip the chill—it gives the dessert structure and depth.
- Egg Safety: Use pasteurized yolks since they’re not cooked.