Name: Mandarin Tiramisu
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: PT-490777H3M21S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Mandarins, peeled; Savoiardi ladyfinger cookies; Mascarpone cheese; Heavy whipping cream; Powdered sugar

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Mandarin Tiramisu brings a fresh citrus twist to a classic Italian favorite, trading coffee for sweet mandarins and creating a light yet rich dessert that fits perfectly into cooler months. This winter dessert recipe feels festive, balanced, and refreshing, while still delivering the creamy comfort people expect from tiramisu. Because this version skips the oven entirely, it also works beautifully as a stress-free make-ahead option for gatherings. Whether you serve it for a holiday dinner or a casual weekend treat, Mandarin Tiramisu stands out as a refined, crowd-pleasing mascarpone dessert.

Story

Mandarin Tiramisu became a staple in my kitchen when I wanted a holiday dessert that felt special but not heavy. Traditional tiramisu can feel intense after a large meal, so I started experimenting with citrus. Mandarin Tiramisu keeps the familiar layered structure while replacing coffee with fruit, creating a lighter finish. The natural sweetness of mandarins pairs beautifully with mascarpone, and the result feels both classic and new. I now make Mandarin Tiramisu every winter because it fits perfectly into seasonal menus. This holiday tiramisu also works well for guests who prefer fruit-forward desserts.

Ingredients

1.2 pounds mandarins (about 6–7 medium), peeled
7 ounces savoiardi ladyfinger cookies (about 24 cookies)

9 ounces mascarpone cheese (about 1 cup)
1 cup heavy whipping cream (33–36% fat)
1 1/4 cups powdered sugar, divided

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Peel the mandarins carefully and separate them into clean segments. Set aside several intact segments if you plan to garnish later. Place the remaining mandarins into a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. If you prefer a refined texture, strain the puree to remove pulp. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with 3/4 cup powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, mix mascarpone with the remaining powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.

Cooking Instructions

Fold the whipped cream gently into the mascarpone mixture in batches, keeping the texture airy. Quickly dip each savoiardi into the mandarin puree, moistening without soaking. Arrange a single layer of dipped cookies in a serving dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the cookies. Repeat with another cookie layer and finish with the remaining cream. Cover and refrigerate for at least four hours, preferably overnight, allowing this no bake mandarin dessert to fully set.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Oversoaking the savoiardi can ruin the structure of Mandarin Tiramisu, making layers collapse. Always dip quickly and lightly. Avoid overmixing mascarpone, as it can loosen the texture. Using cold mascarpone straight from the refrigerator may cause lumps, so let it soften slightly. Skipping chill time leads to messy slices, so patience matters when preparing this citrus tiramisu.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Choose mandarins that feel heavy for their size, since they contain more juice and sweetness. Straining the puree gives a smoother mouthfeel, especially for elegant presentations. A small splash of mandarin juice or orange liqueur deepens citrus notes without overpowering the cream. For extra aroma, add finely grated mandarin zest to the mascarpone mixture.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Mandarin Tiramisu chilled, straight from the refrigerator, for clean layers and full flavor. Garnish with reserved mandarin segments just before serving to add freshness and color. This dessert works well in a large glass dish or individual portions. Because it feels light, it pairs nicely with coffee or tea after dinner.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover Mandarin Tiramisu covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to two days. The texture remains creamy, though the cookies soften slightly over time. Avoid freezing, as mascarpone and whipped cream can separate once thawed. Always keep the dessert chilled until ready to serve for best results.

Conclusion

Mandarin Tiramisu proves that small changes can create something memorable. By swapping coffee for fruit, this dessert becomes brighter, lighter, and ideal for seasonal gatherings. It fits beautifully into winter menus while offering a refreshing finish. If you enjoy make-ahead desserts with balanced sweetness, this recipe deserves a spot in your rotation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Mandarin Tiramisu a day ahead?

Yes, Mandarin Tiramisu actually improves with time. Preparing it the day before allows flavors to meld and layers to set properly. Overnight chilling creates clean slices and a more cohesive texture.

Can I substitute other citrus fruits?

You can replace mandarins with oranges or tangerines, but mandarins offer the best balance of sweetness and acidity. Stronger citrus like grapefruit may overpower the mascarpone cream.

Is Mandarin Tiramisu suitable for kids?

Yes, this version contains no coffee or alcohol by default. It works well as a family-friendly dessert, making it a safe and appealing option for all ages.