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    Home » By Meal » Dessert

    Published: February 8, 2023

    Healthy Tiramisu (Gluten-Free)

    5 from 2 votes
    Jump to Recipe Pin Print
    healthy tiramisu gluten free
    healthy tiramisu gluten free
    healthy tiramisu gluten free
    healthy tiramisu gluten free

    This delicious and easy healthy tiramisu recipe is gluten-free and made with layers of coffee-dipped lady fingers and a sweet, airy mascarpone Greek yogurt custard. The perfect no-bake dessert!

    inside shot of light and soft healthy tiramisu that's gluten free

    Best gluten-free tiramisu recipe

    With summer around the corner, I love a good no-bake dessert that doesn’t require an oven. That’s why this coffee-flavored tiramisu is perfect! It’s easy to make, it’s no-bake, it’s light and healthy, and can be made gluten-free.

    Tiramisu is a classic rich, and decadent Italian dessert. I’ve been to Italy a few times and look forward to a slice of tiramisu for dessert after every dinner. It’s not overly sweet, has the best coffee-chocolate flavor, and is very satiating.

    Anyways, this recipe doesn’t comprise on flavor; it tastes like the classic Italian one. It’s just made lighter and healthier by using a mixture of mascarpone and Greek yogurt. You’ll want another slice after you try this recipe!

    Why you’ll love this healthy recipe:

    • No-bake dessert.
    • This tiramisu recipe is light and healthy.
    • Easily make it gluten-free.
    • Strong coffee flavor.
    • Perfect dessert for the Summer and warm weather.
    • No refined sugar in this tiramisu recipe.
    • Made with both mascarpone and Greek yogurt.
    • The custard is light, airy, and sweet.
    • Feels fancy, but it’s easy to make.
    • Try these delicious coffee cookies next!
    slice of gluten free tiramisu

    Ingredients needed & substitutions

    This healthy tiramisu recipe calls for simple ingredients like lady fingers, espresso, Greek yogurt, mascarpone, cocoa powder, and eggs. This recipe is refined-sugar-free and can easily be made gluten-free. Here is a list of everything you need so you are prepared:

    • Milk: The first ingredient in the healthy mascarpone yogurt custard. I used skim to lighten it up, but you can use whole milk or 2% too.
    • Cornstarch: This helps thicken the cream custard. If you are gluten-free, use arrowroot starch or tapioca flour instead.
    • Vanilla Extract: Just a dash goes a long way flavor-wise.
    • Mascarpone: Classic tiramisu recipes always call for mascarpone, which is soft, sweeter, and light Italian cheese. Traditional tiramisu is already a “healthier” recipe, but we lighten it up further by mixing Greek yogurt and mascarpone.
    • Greek Yogurt: I like using 2%, but 0% and 5% will also work. I recommend using plain Greek yogurt, but vanilla will also work.
    • Eggs: To get the perfect custard texture. You need the yolks and the egg whites.
    • Honey: This tiramisu is 100% refined sugar-free! We use a small amount of honey to sweeten it. You can also use white sugar or maple syrup.
    • Espresso: I always use freshly brewed express for the strongest, best flavor. However, you can use cold brew or regular brew coffee too.
    • Lady Fingers: The star of the show. We dip the cakey lady fingers in the espresso, so they are perfectly soft and coffee-flavored. You can use regular lady fingers or gluten free ones!
    • Rum: This is optional but classic to tiramisu recipes. You only need 1 Tablespoon for flavor. You can also use Kahlua.
    • Cocoa Powder: For dusting the top of your healthy tiramisu. It adds the best coffee-chocolate flavor that is classic to traditional Italian tiramisu. I love this brand.

    Kitchen tools required

    Here is a list of kitchen utensils you will need to make this easy tiramisu recipe. Clean-up will be easy!

    • 8×8″ Baking Pan: You can also use an 8-inch circle or oval pan. You can also stack it in a 9×5 loaf.
    • Shallow Bowl
    • Mixing Bowl
    • Whisk
    • Medium Sauce Pot
    • Measuring Tools: 1 teaspoon, 1 Tablespoon, 1/2 cup, and 1 cup.
    all ingredients in healthy tiramisu in small bowls with labels

    How to make healthy tiramisu

    This is seriously the best healthy tiramisu recipe – everyone I know loves it! Plus, you can easily make it gluten-free. Here are detailed step-by-step instructions with pictures for visual reference so any level baker can make them. The full recipe and ingredient measurements are at the bottom of this page in the recipe card.

    Step 1: prepare espresso

    First, make your espresso, and then set it aside to cool. TIP: pour it into a shallow baking dish, so it cools faster.

    Step 2: make the healthy mascarpone cream

    In a medium-sized saucepan (no heat), add ½ cup of the milk & all of the cornstarch. Whisk until there are no clumps left and the cornstarch is completely dissolved.

    Place the saucepan on a burner over medium-high heat, then add the vanilla extract. Allow the milk to thicken, whisking often until it’s bubbling and thick. This should take about 2 – 3 minutes. Keep your eye on it; it could happen quickly.

    Add the rest of the milk to the saucepan and whisk. Remove from heat.

    thickening milk with cornstarch in a saucepot

    Step 3: add egg yolks

    In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and honey until they are thoroughly combined and light and pale in color (about 1 minute).

    Then, slowly pour about 1/4 cup of the milk mixture into the egg yolk and honey, whisking the entire time.

    Next, slowly pour that mixture back into the milk and whisk until everything is combined.

    Finally, place the saucepan back on the burner over low-medium and heat for 1 – 2 minutes, frequently whisking until it’s a little thicker. If it clumps, it is the cornstarch. Remove from heat and whisk until combined. Set aside. Then, whisk in the mascarpone and greek yogurt until no clumps remain.

    making tiramisu custard in a sauce pot

    Step 4: add egg whites

    This is optional, but I highly recommend adding egg whites. Do this by whisking egg whites in a large clean bowl until stiff peaks form. Fold them into the mascarpone cream gently.

    Reasoning: Adding egg whites is a perfect and authentic way to add volume and airiness while being low cal. You can omit them and use just the yolks, but it will be more custardy and less airy.

    folding egg whites into tiramisu yogurt custard to it is extra airy and light

    Step 5: assemble the healthy tiramisu

    You can use an 8×8 pan, 8-inch circle pan, or oval. You can also stack it in a 9×5 loaf.

    Now, VERY QUICKLY dip your lady fingers into the espresso. They soak up liquid very quickly, so you want to be swift. Layer them along the bottom, cutting them if needed to fit.

    Then, cover with half of the mascarpone pastry cream. Repeat with another layer of ladyfingers and the final half of the mascarpone. Gently spread to make sure everything is covered.

    Finally, dust with cocoa powder and let your gluten-free and healthy tiramisu chill for 5 hours (but 12-24 is BEST). Enjoy!

    layering gluten-free lady fingers dipped in espresso at the bottom of an 8x8-inch pan
    adding mascarpone yogurt cream on top of espresso dipped lady fingers
    dusting cocoa powder on top of healthy tiramisu

    Expert recipe tips for tiramisu

    1. Quickly dip the lady fingers. Both regular and gluten-free lady fingers soak up liquid very quickly, given their soft and cakey structure. For best results, ensure you are swift so they don’t oversoak and fall apart.
    2. Make it Gluten-Free. You can easily make the tiramisu gluten-free by using arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch and using gluten-free lady fingers. This is the best brand.
    3. Let your Tiramisu chill for AT LEAST 5 hours. This is so important! Tiramisu must chill for at least 5 hours, but preferably 12 to 24 hours, so the mascarpone custard has time to set. The flavors will also intensify as it chills!
    4. Add Egg Whites. This is optional, but adding egg whites is a perfect and authentic way to add volume and airiness to this tiramisu recipe while being low-calorie. You can omit them and use just the yolks, but the tiramisu will be more custardy and less airy.
    5. Only use mascarpone, not Greek yogurt. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use 8 ounces of mascarpone for this recipe. Up to you!
    gluten-free tiramisu

    The taste & texture:

    Tiramisu is a decadent Italian dessert that tastes like a coffee-flavored creamy custard. The primary flavor comes from the espresso and cocoa powder that is dusted on top. It is sweet, but not overly sweet. Tiramisu is the perfect “lighter” and “healthier” dessert!

    Tiramisu is a layered dessert. Each layer of lady fingers soaked in espresso is topped with lightly sweet custard made from mascarpone cheese and Greek yogurt. The texture is light, airy, and soft. It is not runny or soggy.

    inside of healthy tiramisu with greek yogurt mascarpone cream

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is this tiramisu recipe gluten-free?

    Yes, this tiramisu recipe can easily be made 100% gluten-free by substituting the cornstarch with arrowroot powder or tapioca flour. You will also need to use gluten-free lady fingers. This is the best brand.

    What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

    You can use regular yogurt, vanilla Greek yogurt, vanilla yogurt, or use only mascarpone.

    Can I use cold brew or brewed coffee?

    Espresso adds the strongest coffee flavor; however, you can also use cold brew or chilled brewed coffee.

    Do I need to add the egg whites?

    You don’t need to add egg whites to the mascarpone yogurt custard. I like to add them because it’s a perfect and authentic way to add volume and airiness to this tiramisu recipe while being low-calorie. You can omit them and use just the yolks, but the tiramisu will be more custardy and less airy.

    Do I have to add the rum?

    No! Make this tiramisu alcohol-free by omitting the rum.

    What are the best gluten-free lady fingers?

    I have tested this healthy Tiramisu with a few different brands of gluten-free lady fingers and found the best one to be Schar’s Gluten-Free Lady Fingers.

    lightened up gluten-free tiramisu slice on parchment paper

    What does tiramisu taste like?

    Tiramisu is a coffee-flavored no-bake Italian dessert. The primary flavor comes from the espresso and cocoa powder that is dusted on top. It is sweet, but not overly sweet.

    Does tiramisu have caffeine?

    Yes, tiramisu contains caffeine since the lady fingers are soaked in espresso. The amount of caffeine depends on the serving size you consume. A typical piece of tiramisu contains between 50 and 60 milligrams of caffeine.

    Can you freeze tiramisu?

    Yes, you can freeze tiramisu. Simply make the tiramisu in a freezer-safe pan (don’t dust the top with cocoa powder). Then, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then tinfoil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy, allow the tiramisu to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then dust with cocoa powder right before serving.

    How to store make ahead of time:

    Storing: For best results, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

    Make Ahead: You can make tiramisu up to 2 days in advance. Simply cover the top with aluminum foil and store it in the fridge.

    slice of healthy greek yogurt tiramisu

    If you love this recipe, try these recipes next!

    • Chewy Coffee Cookies
    • Gluten-Free Chocolate Cupcakes
    • Frozen Yogurt Granola Bars
    • Strawberry Brownies
    • Mini Bundt Cakes (3 Flavors!)

    Did you make this recipe?

    If you make this recipe, be sure to comment and rate it down below. Also, don’t forget to tag me @healthfulblondie on Instagram and use the hashtag #healthfulblondie so I can see your delicious creation and share it with my followers!

    healthy tiramisu gluten free

    Healthy Tiramisu (Gluten-Free)

    This delicious and easy healthy tiramisu recipe is gluten-free and made with layers of coffee-dipped lady fingers and a sweet, airy mascarpone Greek yogurt custard. The perfect no-bake dessert!
    5 from 2 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 20 mins
    Total Time 5 hrs 20 mins
    Serving 8 servings

    Ingredients
     

    Mascarpone-Yogurt Custard:

    • 1 ½ cups milk, I used skim
    • 1 ½ tbsp cornstarch, or arrowroot starch if gluten-free
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • 4 oz mascarpone
    • 4 oz Greek yogurt, ( like 2%) or you can substitute with 4oz of mascarpone
    • 2 large eggs, separated
    • 3 tbsp honey, or 2 – 3 tbsp white sugar

    Lady Fingers Layer:

    • 2 cups cold espresso, read notes below for other options
    • 7 oz lady fingers, regular (this is my favorite) or gluten-free (these are the best gluten-free lady fingers)
    • 1 tbsp rum, or Kahlua (optional)
    • 2 tbsp cocoa powder, for dusting

    Instructions

    Make Espresso:

    • Make the espresso then set it aside to cool. TIP: pour it into a shallow baking dish so it cools faster.

    Make Mascarpone-Yogurt Cream:

    • In a medium-sized saucepan (no heat), add ½ cup of the milk & all of the cornstarch. Whisk until there are no clumps left and the cornstarch is completely dissolved.
    • Place the saucepan on a burner over medium-high heat, then add the vanilla extract. Allow the milk to thicken, whisking often, until it’s bubbling and thick. This should take about 2 – 3 minutes. Keep your eye on it, it could happen quickly.
    • Add the rest of the milk to the saucepan and whisk. Remove from heat.

    Add Egg Yolks:

    • In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and honey until they are fully combined and light and pale in color (about 1 minute).
    • Slowly pour about 1/4 cup of the milk mixture into the egg yolk and honey, whisking the entire time.
    • Then, slowly pour that mixture back into the milk and whisk until everything is combined.
    • Place the saucepan back on the burner over low-medium and heat for 1 – 2 minutes, whisking frequently until it’s a little thicker. If it clumps, it is the cornstarch. Remove from heat and whisk until combined. Set aside.
    • Whisk in the mascarpone and greek yogurt until no clumps remain.

    Add Egg Whites *if adding*

    • Whisk egg whites in a large clean bowl until stiff peaks form. Fold them into the mascarpone cream gently. Adding egg whites is a perfect and authentic way to add volume and airy-ness while being low cal. You can omit them and use just the yolks, but it will be more custardy and less airy.

    Assemble the Tiramisu:

    • You can use an 8×8 pan, 8-inch circle pan, or oval. You can also stack it in a 9×5 loaf.
    • VERY QUICKLY dip your lady fingers into the espresso. They soak up liquid very quickly, so you want to be swift. Layer them along the bottom, cutting them if needed to fit.
    • Cover with half of the mascarpone pastry cream. Repeat with another layer of ladyfingers and the final half of the mascarpone. Gently spread to make sure everything is covered.
    • Dust with cocoa powder with a colander or sifter.
    • Let it chill for 5 hours (but really 12-24 is BEST). Enjoy!

    Notes

    Espresso: Espresso adds the strongest coffee flavor; however, you can also use cold brew or chilled brewed coffee.
    Making it Gluten-Free. You can easily make the tiramisu gluten-free by using arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch and using gluten-free lady fingers. This is the best brand.
    Let your Tiramisu chill for AT LEAST 5 hours. This is so important! Tiramisu must chill for at least 5 hours, but preferably 12 to 24 hours, so the mascarpone custard has time to set. The flavors will also intensify as it chills!
    Only use mascarpone, not Greek yogurt. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use 8 ounces of mascarpone for this recipe. Up to you!
    Greek Yogurt: You can use regular yogurt, vanilla Greek yogurt, vanilla yogurt, or use only mascarpone.
    Freezing: You can freeze tiramisu. Simply make the tiramisu in a freezer-safe pan (don’t dust the top with cocoa powder). Then, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then tinfoil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy, allow the tiramisu to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then dust with cocoa powder right before serving.
    Storing: For best results, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
    Make Ahead: You can make tiramisu up to 2 days in advance. Simply cover the top with aluminum foil and store it in the fridge.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 230kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 116mg | Sodium: 135mg | Potassium: 140mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 404IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 114mg | Iron: 1mg
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine American, Healthy, Italian
    DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?Please leave a comment and star rating on this post and tag @HealthfulBlondie on Instagram & hashtag it #healthfulblondie!

    I only recommend products I absolutely love and use myself. In full disclosure, by purchasing a product I recommend, I may receive a small compensation. Thank you for supporting Healthful Blondie!

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    Comments

    1. Molly says

      February 22, 2023 at 1:09 pm

      5 stars
      Okay I have to admit this was one of the best tiramisu’s i have ever made or eaten. Dare I say that it’s better than any bakery I have been to. It was light, sweet (not too sugary), and I cannot believe it had yogurt in it. I loved it so much and so did my husband. Will make again! It was perfect for V-day!

      Reply

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    Tati, founder and creator of Healthful Blondie

    I’m Tati, a foodie, recipe developer, and blogger based in Austin, Texas. I started Healthful Blondie in 2020 to celebrate life, health, and my passion for cooking and baking. If you are in search of “lightened-up,” healthier versions of classics, you are in the right spot! My recipes are easy to follow, simple, and super tasty.

    More about me →

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