There’s something magical about that first sip of Tiramisu Iced Coffee on a warm afternoon—the bold richness of espresso mingling with sweet cream and a hint of cocoa. It’s the perfect blend of dessert and caffeine, indulgent without being too heavy, and so refreshing it’ll become your new summer staple.

I first dreamed this up after a coffee date turned into a dessert craving I couldn't ignore. With no tiramisu in sight, I decided to stir its flavors right into my glass—and the result was better than I imagined. This recipe has quickly become my go-to pick-me-up when I need a treat that feels both sophisticated and effortless.

Let’s dive into what makes this dreamy drink so special.

Why You’ll Love This Tiramisu Iced Coffee

Get ready to fall head over heels for your new favorite coffeehouse-style indulgence. This Tiramisu Iced Coffee isn’t just another fancy iced drink—it’s a decadent café experience you can whip up at home in minutes.

First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. You don’t need a barista’s toolkit or hours of prep. A few pantry staples and a shaker (or mason jar) are all it takes to recreate this luxurious drink.

It’s also wallet-friendly. Rather than spending $6 at a café, you can make multiple servings at home using ingredients you likely already have on hand—coffee, milk, sugar, and a few flavor boosters.

This recipe is also endlessly adaptable. Whether you prefer cold brew or espresso, dairy or plant-based creamers, this iced coffee welcomes substitutions without compromising on that classic tiramisu taste.

Finally, it’s a total crowd-pleaser. Serve it at brunch, as an afternoon pick-me-up, or even as a dessert alternative. It’s impressive enough for guests, but easy enough to enjoy solo in your backyard hammock.

Now that you're craving it, let’s break down exactly what goes into this indulgent treat.

Ingredient Notes

The magic of Tiramisu Iced Coffee lies in how simple ingredients can come together to create something that tastes straight from an Italian café. Each component plays a distinct role in delivering that layered, dessert-like flavor.

Coffee is the foundation, and strong, chilled espresso or cold brew works best. You want a deep, robust base that mimics the coffee-soaked ladyfingers in traditional tiramisu. I love using homemade cold brew for a smoother finish, but two shots of espresso will give it more punch.

Milk or cream is what gives the drink its silky texture. For an authentic tiramisu feel, I recommend using half-and-half or a splash of heavy cream. If you’re dairy-free, oat milk or coconut milk creamer adds richness while keeping things plant-based.

Mascarpone or vanilla syrup adds that signature tiramisu twist. If you have mascarpone on hand, blending a spoonful into your milk creates a creamy, dessert-like consistency. If not, a high-quality vanilla syrup or even sweetened condensed milk can mimic the sweetness and flavor profile.

Cocoa powder isn’t just for garnish—it brings the subtle bitterness and depth that balances the sweetness. Dust a little on top or stir it into the drink for a mocha-like kick that elevates the whole experience.

Coffee liqueur or rum extract is optional, but it adds that finishing tiramisu touch. A splash of Kahlúa or a few drops of rum extract can take your iced coffee from great to unforgettable.

You won’t need any fancy equipment, just a shaker or mason jar with a lid, and your favorite glass filled with ice.

How To Make This Tiramisu Iced Coffee

Making this luxurious iced coffee at home is easier than you might think. You’ll be sipping café-quality goodness in under 10 minutes.

Start by brewing your coffee. If you’re using espresso, pull two shots and let them cool. For cold brew, measure about ¾ cup. Chill the coffee completely—it should be nice and cold to avoid melting the ice too fast.

While the coffee cools, prepare your creamy base. In a shaker or jar, combine your milk or cream with your choice of sweetener. If using mascarpone, blend it in here for a velvety texture. Add your vanilla syrup or extract, and if you’re including any coffee liqueur or rum extract, this is the moment to mix it in.

Add the chilled coffee to the shaker along with a handful of ice. Seal tightly and shake for about 10–15 seconds until everything is well mixed and frothy. This step chills the drink beautifully and gives it a slightly foamy top that mimics the mascarpone layer in classic tiramisu.

Pour the mixture into a tall glass filled with fresh ice. You can taste and adjust sweetness at this point, adding a touch more syrup if needed.

Finish with a light dusting of cocoa powder or even a swirl of whipped cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent. I love to sprinkle a pinch of instant espresso or grated chocolate for added flair.

From start to finish, you’ll spend less than 10 minutes on this recipe, but the flavor payoff feels like something far more decadent.

Storage Options

While this drink is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some elements in advance to make it even easier next time.

Brew and chill your coffee ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cold brew is especially stable and keeps its smooth flavor for several days without turning bitter.

You can also premix the milk, sweetener, and flavorings into a creamer-style blend. Keep it in a jar in the fridge, shake before using, and you’ll have a shortcut ready whenever the craving hits.

If you make a double batch of the full drink, just be sure to give it a quick stir before serving. Ice may water it down if left too long, so it’s best to add fresh ice right before drinking.

To reheat leftovers (if you're adapting it into a warm tiramisu latte), simply microwave the mixture in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until hot.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is to your taste, dietary needs, or what you have in the fridge.

Swap out regular milk for any non-dairy milk—oat milk adds extra creaminess, while almond milk keeps it light. Coconut milk creamer is also fantastic for richness with a hint of tropical flavor.

Instead of mascarpone, use a spoonful of cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, or a dairy-free coffee creamer with a vanilla profile. All provide that creamy, dessert-like effect without needing a specialty trip to the store.

You can easily skip the coffee liqueur or use rum extract for an alcohol-free version that still delivers on flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, try amaretto or hazelnut syrup for a unique twist.

Want to go full dessert mode? Blend the whole thing with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream to turn it into a tiramisu frappe.

If you’re watching your sugar, opt for sugar-free syrups and unsweetened cocoa. It’ll still taste indulgent, just a little lighter on the carbs.

Don’t be afraid to experiment—this iced coffee is a canvas for your favorite tiramisu elements and personal preferences.